WO2002066098A1

WO2002066098A1 - Plastic tube processing method and device

Info

Publication number: WO2002066098A1
Application number: PCT/JP2002/001174
Authority: WO
Inventors: Takashi Arai; Kazuhide Nomura
Original assignee: Shimizu Medical Care Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2001-02-21
Filing date: 2002-02-13
Publication date: 2002-08-29
Also published as: JP2004329223A; TW522025B

Abstract

Sealing and joining of plastic tubes are disclosed. Clamp mechanisms (7, 8) for plastic tubes and an auxiliary clam mechanism (11) therefor are installed, and an electric heating wire cutter (9) and an infrared heater (10) are installed. A plastic tube (3) is fusion-cut by moving the electric heating wire cutter (9) in a cross direction while clamping the plastic tube (3) by the clamp mechanisms (7, 8). Cut ends (6, 6') are noncontact-wise heated by the infrared heater (10) to have fusion zones (13, 13') formed on their inner surface and end surfaces, which are then crushed by the auxiliary clamp mechanism, the opposed inner surfaces being fused to serve as sealed ends. During tube cutting, the sealed end is cut by the electric heating wire (9), the cut end surface is noncontact-wise heated by infrared rays, and end surfaces are abutted against each other within a shaping form, thus forming the fusion zones.

Description

Detail

Plastic processing method and apparatus

Background of the Invention

The present invention relates to a processing method and apparatus for sealing or connecting a plastic tube, and in a peritoneal dialysis, a plastic tube (transformation tube) between a patient's peritoneal cavity and a dialysate back. It is particularly suitable for the patient to perform the disconnection and connection of aseptic method under aseptic condition by himself.

Background art

In peritoneal dialysis, one end of a plastic tube (a catheter) is embedded in the patient's peritoneal cavity, and the other end of the plastic tube is connected to a dialysate pack. When replacing the dialysate pack, the first step is to cut the plastic tube and seal the cut end prior to replacement as the first step, and the second step is to make the plastic tube from the patient's abdominal cavity. The sealed end of the plastic tube is connected to the sealed end of the plastic tube from the new dialysate pack. Various systems have been proposed for automating the plastic tube sealing and connection work so that patients can perform their own work.

As a prior art, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 6-199757, when a plastic tube is cut, a plastic tube is clamped flat by a pair of spaced clamps, and the plastic tube is attached to an electrothermal heater.ゥ Cut the plastic tube between the clamps by moving the evaporator, which is a thinner copper plate heated in the cross direction of the plastic tube. Then, the plastic tube is cut by moving the clamp parallel to the wafer surface and then in the direction perpendicular to the wafer surface. The stump is introduced into the recess formed in the wafer. Therefore, the cut end of the plastic tube is heated and melted by the length introduced into the recess, and finally, the plastic tube is cooled by the low temperature clamp coming into contact with the wafer, and the plastic tube is sealed. A toe is formed. When connecting (welding) the sealed ends of the plastic tubes, clamp the plastic tubes with the sealed ends facing each other and move the heated wafer in the cross direction. Cut off the sealed end of the tube with. Then, by holding the plastic tube and twisting the clamp, the end of the plastic is opened, and then the clamps are moved in a direction to approach each other. By doing so, the plastic opening end faces are fused together, and the connection of the plastic tube is completed.

The method disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-1979757 is a thin copper plate that is heated by an electric heater when forming the sealed end of a plastic tube. The plastic tube is melted by introducing the cut end of the plastic tube, and the plastic tube is connected (welded) by moving the heated aluminum wafer to wipe the plastic tube. Removal of plastic sealing end and melting of plastic tube end face. For this reason, the melt easily adheres to the ewa at a temperature of at most 300 ° C, and from the viewpoint of preventing infection by various bacteria, the eha is disposable each time, which is one of the causes of the increase in dialysis cost. . In addition, since it is necessary to introduce the cut end of the plastic tube into a concave portion formed in the wafer to form the sealed end of the plastic tube, complicated and subtle movement of the plastic tube clamp is required. In other words, a high-precision control device was required, and the device cost was high. As an improvement for reducing the cost of the apparatus, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-165498 discloses a technique employing a rotary clamp and a sealing auxiliary tube. That is, in the technology disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-165498, a pair of rotating clamps are arranged apart from each other, and a plastic tube and a sealing aid from the abdominal cavity are placed on one rotating clamp. Clamp the tube, the other rotating clamp with the plastic tube from the dialysate backing and the sealing aid tube. When cutting the plastic tube, the distance between the rotating clamps is set to the distance between the rotating clamps (in the case of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 10-169498, unlike in the case of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 6-199757). Move the heater), and cut the plastic tube by the heat of the heater. Then, by rotating the rotary clamp, the melt-cut end of the plastic tube is made to face the sealing auxiliary tube clamped by the other rotary clamp, and the clamp is moved in the opposite direction. As a result, the cut end of the plastic tube is welded to the opposite auxiliary tube at the end faces.

In the technology disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-165548, the operation of the clamp is relatively simplified, but it is still possible to use a disposable wafer. I have. In addition, as a wafer, an expensive heater with a built-in heater was required, and a dialysis cost was increased because a sealing auxiliary tube was required.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and has as its object to realize aseptic disconnection and connection of a plastic tube at low cost. Disclosure of the invention

According to the invention, the plastic tube is processed to be cut. A linear heating element intersects the plastic tube between a pair of clamps while clamping flatly between a pair of parts separated in the same direction to tension the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction. Thus, a method for melting and cutting a plastic tube by moving the plastic tube in a direction in which the plastic tube moves is provided.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for sealing a cut end portion of a plastic tube, wherein the plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape close to the cut end portion and close to the clamp portion. Open the plastic tube end face, and heat at least the inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube facing the open end until it reaches a molten state in a non-contact manner, and crush the plastic tube end from the outer peripheral side. Thereby, the opposed inner peripheral surfaces are welded to each other, thereby providing a method of sealing the cut end of the plastic tube.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for connecting the cut end faces of a pair of plastic tubes so as to connect the cut end faces, the end faces being substantially circular while the portions close to the cut end faces are made flat. The plastic tubes are clamped so as to be opened, and at least the opposite open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are heated in a non-contact manner to a molten state, and the respective plastic tubes approach each other while regulating the outer circumference thereof. A method of contacting and welding opposing open end faces by moving in opposite directions is provided.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for treating a plastic tube so as to cut the plastic tube, wherein the tensioned plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape between a pair of portions spaced apart in a longitudinal direction, and a pair of clamps are formed. A method for melting and cutting a plastic tube is provided by moving a linear heating element and a plastic tube relatively in a direction intersecting with each other. Melt cutting of the plastic tube is performed by relatively moving a linear heating element such as a nickel wire or a platinum wire and the plastic tube in the cross direction. Unlike the conventional cutting method using an e-ha in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 6 — 197 757 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 10 — 169 498, a two-chrome wire or a platinum wire is used. Cutting the plastic tube by the relative movement of such a high-temperature linear heating element in the cross direction does not cause any germs due to the high temperature of the heating element, and is extremely reduced by appropriately reducing the wire diameter. Good sharpness can be obtained. Good sharpness means that there is almost no adherence of the molten material, and it is possible to use nickel wire and platinum wire repeatedly for almost the entire endurance period. The running cost can be greatly reduced. In addition, higher power consumption efficiency can be obtained compared to the indirect heating by a wafer as a metal flake in the conventional technology, and a cost reduction from the viewpoint of energy efficiency can be realized. be able to.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for sealing a cut end of a plastic tube, wherein the plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape close to the cut end and close to the clamp. The opened end of the plastic tube is opened, and at least the inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube facing the open end is heated in a non-contact manner until it reaches a molten state, and the end of the plastic tube is crushed from the outer peripheral side. Thus, the opposing inner peripheral surfaces are welded to each other, thereby providing a method for sealing the cut end of the plastic tube.

At least the inner peripheral surface of the cut end surface of the plastic tube is heated in a non-contact manner from the outside, and then the inner peripheral surface is welded by crushing the end of the plastic tube from the outside, so that the plastic tube is welded. The cut end of the bush is sealed. Because of non-contact heating, it goes to the recess formed in the wafer as in the conventional Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-199757. Eliminating the need for disposable e-wafers compared to sealing by the introduction of e-tubes, reducing running costs and elaborate clamps for introducing plastic tube ends into e-recess recesses A simple operation mechanism is not required, and only a simple operation is performed, and the cost of the automation device is reduced. In addition, since an auxiliary tube for sealing with a rotating clamp as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-165498 is not required, the cost can be reduced in this respect as well.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for connecting the cut end surfaces of a pair of plastic tubes so as to connect the cut end surfaces to each other. At least the open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are heated in a non-contact manner to a molten state, and the heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are opposed to each other. By moving the respective plastic tubes in a direction of approaching each other while regulating their outer circumferences, a method is provided for abutting and welding the opposed open end faces.

At least the open ends of the pair of plastic tubes are heated in a non-contact manner, and then the pair of plastic tubes are moved in a direction approaching each other while regulating the outer periphery, and the heated open ends are heated. Are abutted and welded, thereby connecting the plastic tube. Non-contact heating of a pair of plastic tubes eliminates the use of disposable parts like conventional wafers, thus reducing running costs. In addition, since the outer circumference of the plastic tube during welding is regulated, a smooth connection without or with less pallets can be realized. In addition, since the plastic tube is cooled early by contact with the outer circumference regulating means, the welding time is reduced and the cycle time can be shortened. According to the present invention, there is provided a method for treating an end portion of a plastic tube so as to seal the end portion, wherein the plastic tube is tensioned in a longitudinal direction thereof and flattened from outside at a pair of portions separated in the same direction. The plastic tube is cut in a molten state by the relative movement of the linear heating element and the plastic tube in a crossing direction between the pair of clamp portions, and the plastic tube facing the cut end is cut. The inner peripheral portion is heated in a non-contact manner, and this plastic tube is crushed from the outside so that the heated inner peripheral portions are fused to each other, thereby sealing the end of the plastic tube. A method is provided.

The plastic tube is cut by the relative movement in the cross direction with the linear heating element, and then the inner circumference of the plastic tube, which is exposed from the cut end, is contactlessly heated and crushed from the outside. The inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube is welded to seal the end of the plastic tube, and the sealed end of the plastic tube can be used without using disposable parts like a conventional wafer. It is possible to form a portion, and it is possible to reduce costs.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for treating an end portion of a plastic tube having a liquid therein so as to seal the end portion of the plastic tube. The liquid between the clamp portions is transferred to the plastic tube portion outside the clamp portion while flattening the clamp from the outside, and the direction in which the linear heating element and the plastic tube intersect between the pair of clamp portions. The plastic tube is cut in a molten state by the relative movement of the plastic tube, and at least the inner peripheral part of the plastic tube facing the cut end is heated without contact, and this plastic tube is crushed from the outside. As a result, the heated inner peripheral portions are fused to each other, whereby the end of the plastic tube having the liquid inside is heated. Provided a way to seal It is.

Although liquid is contained inside the plastic tube, the liquid in the plastic tube part between the clamps is transferred to the outside of the clamp, so no liquid remains in the cut, and there is a linear shape. When the plastic tube is cut by the heating element, it does not leak or evaporate due to heat, so that a sanitary environment can be maintained for a long time.

According to the present invention, in a method for connecting a pair of plastic tubes, each of which is sealed at one end thereof, the pair of plastic tubes are flatly clamped at a portion close to each of the sealed ends. The plastic tube is held so as to be tensioned in the axial direction on the sealing end side of the clamp, and the linear heating element and the plastic tube are relatively moved in the cross direction to cut the plastic tube. As a result, a portion of the plastic tube on the sealing end side from the clamp portion is cut off and the sealing end of the plastic tube is opened, so that at least the opening end face of the pair of plastic tubes is opened. Heated in a non-contact manner so that the heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes face each other in the axial direction. At the same time, the pair of plastic tubes is moved in a direction approaching each other in the axial direction thereof while regulating the outer circumference thereof, and the heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are brought into contact with each other to open. A method is provided for fusing the end faces together.

The connection of a pair of plastic tubes whose ends are sealed opens the end of the plastic tube by removing the sealed end by moving the linear heating element in the cross direction, and at least this opening The ends are heated in a non-contact manner, and then a pair of plastic tubes are moved in the opposite direction until the opening ends contact and weld. With the use of contact-type heating, the conventional technology Since disposable parts are not required, and the outer periphery is regulated by a molding tool or the like during welding, a clean connection state with or without pallets can be realized.

According to the present invention, in a method of connecting a pair of plastic tubes each having one end sealed and having a liquid therein, the respective plastic tubes are flattened at a portion adjacent to the sealed end. While the fluid is being clamped to the clamp, the fluid is transferred from the sealed end to the side away from the sealed end, and the plastic tube is axially stretched at the sealed end from the clamp. The plastic tube is cut off by moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube relatively in the cross direction to cut the plastic tube. At the same time, the sealed end of the plastic tube is opened, and at least the open end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes are heated in a non-contact manner. With the pair of plastic tubes facing each other in the axial direction, the plastic tubes are moved in a direction approaching each other while regulating the outer periphery of the plastic tubes. The heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes A method of fusing the open end faces to each other by abutting them is provided.

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for processing to cut a plastic tube, wherein the linear heating element and the pair of parts separated in the same direction while tensioning the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction are flattened. An apparatus is provided which comprises a clamp means for pumping and melts and cuts the plastic tube by moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube in the cross direction close to the clamp means. .

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for processing a plastic tube having a liquid therein, between a linear heating element and a pair of parts separated in the same direction while tensioning the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction. And a means for transferring the liquid between the clamps to a portion of the plastic tube outside the clamp section, and the clamp section is clamped by the clamp means. The present invention provides an apparatus for melting and cutting a plastic tube by relatively moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube in a cross direction.

Even if liquid is contained inside the plastic tube, the transfer means acts to move and remove the liquid between the clamps away from the sealing end. As a result, no liquid remains in the cut portion, no leakage or evaporation due to heat occurs when the plastic tube is cut by the linear heating element, and a hygienic environment can be maintained for a long time. it can.

When connecting a plastic tube that contains liquid inside, the periphery of the welded part can be surrounded by a heat-shrinkable plastic film, which reinforces the welded part and makes the connection of the plastic tube more complete. It can be

According to the present invention, there is provided a device for sealing a cut end of a plastic tube, wherein the plastic tube is flattened close to the open end of the plastic tube with the cut end opened. Clamping means for clamping, heating means for heating at least the inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube facing the open end until it reaches a molten state, and crushing the end of the plastic tube from the outer peripheral side And a holding means for holding the plastic tube in such a manner that the inner peripheral surface of the opposite end of the plastic tube at the open end is brought into close contact with the plastic tube and the cut end of the plastic tube is sealed. .

The plastic tube is clamped so that the end is open, the inner surface is heated in a non-contact manner from the open end, and the plastic tube is flattened so that the heated inner peripheral surface is in close contact. Plastic tube The cut end can be sealed.

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for processing a pair of plastic tubes so as to connect the cut end surfaces thereof, wherein a portion of the pair of plastic tubes close to the cut end surface is flat and the end surfaces are substantially circular. Clamping means for clamping so as to open, heating means for heating at least the open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes until they reach a molten state, and regulation for regulating the outer circumference of the plastic tube The plastic tubes are opposed to each other by moving the plastic tubes in a direction approaching each other while restricting the outer circumference with the heated open end faces of the plastic tubes facing the axial direction. An apparatus is provided for abutting and welding the opened end faces to each other.

The plastic tube is clamped close to the sealing end, and at least the open end of the plastic tube is heated in a non-contact manner close to the clamp to regulate the outer circumference of the plastic tube while controlling the outer circumference of the plastic tube. The plastic tube can be connected by moving the end in the approaching direction so that the molten open end is abutted and welded.

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for treating an end of a plastic tube so as to seal the end of the plastic tube, wherein the tensioned plastic tube is closed from the outside so as to be flat at a pair of portions separated in the longitudinal direction. The clamp means to be ramped, the linear heating element, and a portion of the linear heating element and the plastic tube between the pair of clamp sections which are moved closer to the respective clamp means by moving in a direction crossing relative to the linear heating element and the plastic tube. Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube in a molten state, heating means for contactlessly heating at least the inner peripheral portion of the plastic tube facing the cut end, and crushing the plastic tube from outside. As a result, the inner peripheral portions of the heated portions are fused to each other, whereby the brass extending to the liquid storage portion is formed. And a sealing means for sealing the end of the stick tube.

Clamping means clamps the tensioned plastic tube from the outside so that it becomes flat at a pair of parts spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, and cutting means relatively moves the linear heating element with the plastic tube. By moving the plastic tube in the cross direction, the plastic tube is cut, and the heating means heats at least the inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube, which faces the cut end, in a non-contact manner. In this invention, the non-contact heated plastic tube is crushed from the outside to weld the opposed inner peripheral surfaces, thereby sealing the end of the plastic tube. According to the device, a plastic tube having a liquid therein is treated to seal an end of the plastic tube, and the plastic tube is tensioned in a longitudinal direction and separated in the same direction. A clamp means for clamping from the outside so as to be flat at the paired portions, a means for transferring the liquid between the clamp portions to a portion of the plastic tube outside the clamp portion, and a line. Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube in a molten state between the clamping means by the crosswise movement of the plastic tube and the linear heating element between the pair of clamps, and cutting Heating means for heating at least the inner peripheral portion of the plastic tube facing the end in a non-contact manner, and crushing the plastic tube from the outside to cause fusion of the heated inner peripheral portions to each other. And a sealing means for sealing an end of the plastic tube extending to the liquid container.

According to the present invention, in a device for processing to connect a pair of plastic tubes, each of which is sealed at one end, means for flatly clamping the pair of plastic tubes at a portion close to the sealed end portion And a plastic tube extending from the clamp A holding means for holding the sealed end portion of the sealing member so as to be tensioned in the axial direction; a linear heating element; and a plastic tube and the linear heating element which are relatively moved in a crossing direction. Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube in a molten state at a position close to the clamp portion of the plastic tube, heating means for heating at least the open ends of the pair of plastic tubes in a non-contact manner, and a pair of plastic tubes Outer peripheral regulating means for regulating the outer periphery of the pair of plastic tubes, and in a state where the heated opposite ends of the pair of plastic tubes are axially opposed to each other, the outer peripheral regulating means regulates the outer periphery to move the pair of plastic tubes in the axial direction. A connecting hand that welds the open ends of the plastic tubes by moving them in a direction closer to each other. And this provided with the winding devices.

The clamping means flatly clamps the pair of plastic tubes so that their sealing ends face each other in the axial direction and at a position close to the sealing end, and the holding means clamps the pair of plastic tubes. The sealing end of the plastic tube extending from the section is held so as to be tensioned in the axial direction, and the cutting means moves the plastic tube and the linear heating element relatively in the cross direction. As a result, the plastic tube is cut in a molten state at a position close to each clamp part, and the heating means heats at least the open ends of the pair of plastic tubes in a non-contact manner, thereby controlling the outer periphery. Regulates the outer circumference of the pair of plastic tubes, and the connecting means connects the pair of plastic tubes whose outer circumference is regulated by the outer circumference regulating means in the axial direction Ru can and this performing the heated open mouth end each other by Ri plastic Kuchubu to and this for moving in a direction coming close to each other welded connections.

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for processing a pair of plastic tubes each of which is sealed at one end and has a fluid therein. Means for flatly clamping a pair of plastic tubes at a portion close to the sealing end, means for transferring liquid from the sealing end to the clamping part to a side away from the sealing end, The holding means for holding the sealing end of the plastic tube extending from the clamp portion so as to be tensioned in the axial direction, intersecting the linear heating element, and the plastic tube and the linear heating element Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube in a molten state at a position close to each clamp portion by moving the plastic tube in a relative direction, and at least an opening end of a pair of plastic tubes. Heating means for heating in a non-contact manner; outer circumference regulating means for regulating the outer circumference of the pair of plastic tubes; Connecting means for welding the plastic tube open ends to each other by moving the plastic tube in the direction of axial proximity to each other in the outer circumference regulating means. Provided.

When the liquid is contained in the plastic tube, the transfer means acts to transfer and remove the liquid to the clamp portion away from the sealed end. For this reason, no liquid remains in the cut portion, and when the plastic tube is cut by the linear heating element, there is no evaporation due to the leakage heat, and a sanitary environment is maintained for a long time. Can be done.

In the above-described apparatus for connecting a plastic tube containing a liquid therein, means for surrounding the welded portion of the plastic tube with a heat-shrinkable plastic film may be provided. This reinforces the connection and achieves a more secure connection of the plastic tube.

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for performing processing such as cutting, sealing and welding connection of a plastic tube. And a pair of spaced clamp means for flattening the clamp, and a plastic tube extending from each clamp means is held between the clamp means so as to be stretched in the longitudinal direction. Holding means, a linear heating element, and a cutting means for moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube in the direction of crossing relatively close to each clamp means to cut the plastic tube in a molten state. And a heating means for heating the inner periphery and the end face of the plastic tube in a non-contact manner.

In the case of cutting a plastic tube that connects a patient and a dialysate pack in peritoneal dialysis or the like, the pair of clamping means is flattened from the outside at a pair of spaced apart portions in the longitudinal direction of the plastic tube. The clamp is cut and the cutting means moves the linear heating element in the cross direction, thereby cutting the plastic tube in a molten state between the pair of clamps in close proximity to each clamp and heating. The means heats the outer circumference and the end face of the plastic tube facing from each cut end in a non-contact manner, and crushes the plastic tube from the outside by the holding means. The plastic tube from the patient and the plastic tube from the dialysate pack. Ru can and child to seal the under sterile. Further, when connecting the sealed end of the plastic tube from the patient to the sealed end of the plastic tube from the dialysate bag at the start of peritoneal dialysis, the clamp means is connected to the axis of the sealed end. The plastic tube is clamped flat at the part close to the sealing end, and the holding means is made of plastic at the sealing end side of the clamp part. The tube is held so as to be tensioned in the axial direction, and the cutting means is a plastic extending from the clamp by moving the linear heating element in the cross direction. By cutting the plastic tube in a molten state, the ends of the plastic tube are opened, and the inner peripheral surface and the end surface of the pair of plastic tubes that are positioned to face each other in the axial direction by heating means. Non-contact heating is performed to bring the heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes into contact with each other, thereby fusing the open end faces. This device is capable of cutting and sealing plastic tubing and welding the sealed ends independently, and automates the operation of peritoneal dialysis by the patient. In addition, a linear heating element with little adhesion of the melt is used for cutting, and a non-contact type is used for heating in the sealing and connection work. The running cost in peritoneal dialysis work can be reduced as compared with use. In addition, since the non-contact type heating device is shared between the sealing operation and the connection operation, it can contribute to lowering the cost of the device.

In the above invention, the heating means may be an infrared ray generating means for generating an infrared ray irradiated to the heated portion. Heating at a short distance by infrared rays enables energy-saving and efficient heating, and since it is contactless, it is easy to maintain a sterile condition. Also, the means for generating infrared rays can be an electric heater.

In the above invention, a regulating means for regulating the outer periphery of the plastic tube at the time of welding can be further provided. The outer periphery restricting means may be a split mold which forms a cylindrical space having an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the plastic tube at the time of joining.

In the above invention, when the plastic tube has a liquid inside, the liquid in the portion of the plastic tube held by the holding means is transferred to the portion of the plastic tube outside the clamp portion. Means can be provided, The liquid is contained inside the plastic tube, but the transfer means acts to transfer and remove the liquid to the plastic club site outside the clamp. Therefore, no liquid remains in the cut portion of the plastic tube, there is no leakage or evaporation due to heat when the plastic tube is cut by the linear heating element, and a hygienic environment is maintained for a long time. Can be done.

The transition means can include a pair of clamp members for holding the plastic tube, and means for laterally moving the clamp member. By laterally moving the clamp member, it is possible to remove the liquid from the cut portion while also using the clamp.

The transfer means may include a pair of rollers for holding the plastic tube and means for rotating the rollers. Since the liquid is removed by rotating the roller, the liquid can be reliably moved and removed regardless of the position of the tube relative to the roller.

The transition means may include a pair of clamp members having a substantially L-shaped cross section whose bottom surface abuts the plastic tube. Due to the clamp member having the L-shaped cross section, liquid can be removed by a simple clamp operation in a wide range of the plastic tube, thereby simplifying the configuration and realizing cost reduction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

1A to 1E schematically show a series of procedures in peritoneal dialysis.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a sealing portion of the plastic tube. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a welded portion of the plastic tube. FIGS. 4A to 4H are views showing a series of steps in cutting and sealing the plastic tube. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the clamp mechanism.

FIG. 6A to FIG. 6H are views showing a series of steps in the connection operation of the plastic tube.

FIG. 7A shows a schematic perspective view of a shaped open state.

FIG. 7B shows a schematic perspective view of a shaped closed state.

FIGS. 8A to 8D are the same as FIGS. 4A to 4D, but schematically show a modification in which the liquid is removed by ironing (lateral movement) by a clamp. .

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of the clamp mechanism according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of the clamp mechanism of FIG.

FIGS. 11A to 11H are views showing a series of procedures for cutting and sealing the plastic tube in the second embodiment.

FIGS. 12A to 12H are views showing a series of procedures in a plastic tube connecting operation in the second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic side view of a clamp mechanism according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of the clamp mechanism of FIG.

FIGS. 15A to 15H are views showing a series of procedures for cutting and sealing the plastic tube in the third embodiment.

FIGS. 16A to 16H are views showing a series of procedures in a connection operation of a plastic tube in the third embodiment.

FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B are schematic views respectively showing a mold open state and a mold closed state in a modified embodiment in which a connection portion of a plastic tube is covered with a heat-shrinkable tube.

Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the connection part of the plastic tube after the connection work is completed. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

General description

1A to 1E schematically show a method of peritoneal dialysis by the method and apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, wherein FIG. A plastic tubing 3 extends between the dialysis fluid 2 and the dialysate from the dialysis fluid pack 2 to the peritoneal cavity of the patient 1 via the plastic tubing 3. Although not shown, a switching means for switching from the dialysate back 2 to the drain back is also provided so that the drain pack can be drained from the abdominal cavity via the plastic tube 3.

The dialysis work is normally completed in about 30 minutes, and the plastic tube 3 is separated by the working device 100 shown in FIG.1B.As will be described later, first, in this separating work, Then, the plastic tube 3 is clamped at a pair of spaced-apart sites to prevent leakage from the abdominal cavity of the patient 1 and the dialysate pack 2 while performing cutting by a heating wire. The inner peripheral surface of the opened cut end of the plastic tube 3 is heated in a non-contact manner by infrared rays or the like, and then the plastic tubes are crushed from the outer side to bring the opposing inner peripheral surfaces into close contact with each other. By doing so, it is sealed flat. In FIG. 1B, reference numerals 5 and 5 'denote sealing ends formed in the plastic tube 3 in this manner. (Refer to Fig. 2 for the shape of the sealing ends 5 and 5.) After that, the used permeation liquid pack 2 will be discarded. FIG. 1C shows a completed state of the dialysis work, and a plastic tube 3 whose end 5 is sealed extends from the abdominal cavity of the patient 1.

The next dialysis work will be performed after 5-6 hours. As shown in Fig. 1D, a new dialysis pack 2A is prepared and extends from dialysis pack 2A. The operation of connecting the plastic tube 3A to the plastic tube 3 from the patient 1 is performed. As will be described later, the working device 100 clamps the sealing ends 5, 5A of the plastic tubes 3, 3A in front of the sealing ends 5, 5A, thereby preventing liquid leakage while preventing leakage of the liquid. 5A is cut off with a heating wire, the open end formed by this is heated in a non-contact manner by infrared rays, and the heated open end is positively welded by welding. Weld the tip tubes 3 and 3A. The heat-welded portion between the plastic tubes 3 and 3A thus formed is shown in Fig. 1E-4 (see also Fig. 3).

Again, after 5 to 6 hours, the next peritoneal dialysis operation is performed, at which time the steps already described in FIGS. 1A to 1E will be repeated again. First embodiment

Hereinafter, the operation of disconnecting and connecting the plastic tube during peritoneal dialysis as an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4A to 7B. The working device 100 basically includes a pair of clamp mechanisms 7 (see FIG. 5) and 8 arranged coaxially in the longitudinal direction of the plastic tube 3 and a pair of heating wire cutters 9. , An infrared heater 10, an auxiliary clamp mechanism 11, and a molding die 14 (see FIGS. 7A and 7B).

The clamp mechanisms 7 and 8 constitute the clamp means of the present invention, each of which is configured to be movable a certain distance back and forth in the coaxial direction (in the direction of arrow a in FIG. 4A). As shown in FIG. 5, the clamp mechanism 7 is provided with a pair of clamp members 7-1 and 7-2, and the clamp members -1 and 7-2 each have a vertical direction (see FIG. 5). It is configured to be movable to the arrow b) of 5. Then, the clamp members 7-1 and 7-2 have the lower end surface and the upper end surface which are the clamp surfaces. Each of them has a flat surface, and the plastic tube 3 is flattened as shown in Fig. 5 by moving the clamp members 7-1 and 7-2 in a direction approaching each other. Crushed. Then, the cut end 6 can be opened in a substantially circular shape by elastic reversion by clamping the cut end 6 somewhat (several millimeters) in front of the cut end 6. In addition, the clamp of the plastic tube 3 is released by moving the clamp members 7-1 and 7-2 away from each other. The clamping mechanism 8 has the same structure as the clamping mechanism 7, and the plastic tube 3 can be selectively clamped and released.

The auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 constitutes the holding means of the present invention, and is composed of upper and lower clamp members having a flat clamp surface similarly to the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8, and the upper and lower clamp members. It is the same as the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8 that the members are configured so as to be movable in the direction facing and away from each other. Then, during the heating operation by the infrared heater 10, a linear drive type for retracting the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 from the coaxial position on the plastic tube axis in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface or the like. Alternatively, a lever-type evacuation mechanism is installed although not shown.

The heating wire cutter 9 (FIG. 4C) constitutes the cutting means of the present invention, and is composed of a linear heating element such as a nickel wire, a platinum wire, a kanta wire, a tungsten wire, and a driving means therefor. can do. When the heating wire is energized, it is much higher than the melting point (around 200 ° C) of the plastic material, such as vinyl chloride or polypropylene, that composes the plastic tube. Heated to about C. Then, the plastic tube 3 can be melt-cut by moving the heating wire cutter 9 in a direction perpendicular to the plastic tube 3 (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface). Sharp cutting can be performed with high-temperature nickel wire or platinum wire. Therefore, the adhesion of the melt is ignored for a long time. Therefore, the plastic tube can be repeatedly cut a considerable number of times.

The smaller the diameter of the heating wire, the better its sharpness can be obtained, but if it is too thin, its life will be shortened, so it is necessary to select the wire diameter so that the sharpness and durability are appropriately balanced. Sufficiently good results could be obtained with a wire diameter of about 0.2 mm. In addition, as for the cross-sectional shape of the heating wire, a normal circular shape may be originally a rectangular shape or another deformed cross-sectional shape.

The infrared heater 10 (FIG. 4E) constitutes the heating means of the present invention, and in this embodiment, a heating section 12 composed of a rod-shaped electric resistance element heating element extending cantilevered in the opposite direction in the axial direction. , 12A, and the heating section 12, 12A is positioned so as to face the cut end of the plastic tube 3, and the heating section 12, 12A is energized to cause red heat. By generating infrared rays, non-contact heating of the cut end of the plastic tube 3, that is, radiant heating can be performed. Adoption of non-contact type heating has the advantage that there is no adhesion of plastic melt that cannot be avoided when using a contact type wafer in the conventional technology.In addition, a heating section composed of electric resistance wires 12 and 12A reach a high temperature exceeding 800 ° C when energized, so even if there are bacteria in the vicinity, they can be killed and the invasion of bacteria by the heating wire 9 into the opening end of the plastic tube is eliminated. I do. Therefore, the non-contact heating by the infrared heater 10 in this embodiment is excellent from the viewpoint of preventing infection by various bacteria. In addition, the infrared heater 10 is provided with a mechanism (not shown) for moving the infrared heater 10 back and forth in a direction perpendicular to the paper so as to prevent mechanical interference with the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11. If not, it is in the evacuation position.

Mold 14 (FIG. 6G) constitutes the outer circumference regulating means of the present invention, It is used for connecting the plastic tube, and functions to regulate the outer circumference to a predetermined diameter when joining the plastic tube, and to shape the welded portion of the plastic tube. That is, as shown in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the molding die 14 is composed of the upper die 15 and the lower die 16, and the upper die 15 is a molding surface having a downward semicircular cross section. 1 and the lower mold 16 has a downward facing semicircular cross-section forming surface 16-1 and is normally separated as shown in Fig. 7A, but approaches each other as shown by arrow c. When the upper mold 15 and the lower mold 16 are combined as shown in FIG. 7B, a cylindrical molding cavity 17 (see also FIG. 6G) is formed. When the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are joined, the plastic tubes are introduced into the rectangular cavity 17 of the mold from both sides (in the direction of the arrow a2 in Fig. 7A) with the opposing end surfaces in a molten state. The fusion ends are abutted and welded. At this time, the outer circumference of the plastic tube comes into contact with the inner circumference of the internal cavity 17 of the molding die, so the outer circumference of the plastic tube is restricted.The flesh of the abutment does not protrude in a paris shape, so it is beautiful. The joint shape can be obtained. Since the joint shape is smooth, the dialysis work can be performed without any problem even if this part is clamped at the next or subsequent connection. In order to smoothly introduce the end of the plastic tube into the mold 14, the entrance of the cavity 17 can be appropriately tapered.

Next, the details of the detaching operation of the plastic tube 3 described in FIG. 1B by the working device 100 will be described step by step with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4B. One stage is shown, and the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 moves from the retracted position so as to be coaxial with the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8, and in this state, the clamp mechanisms 7, 8, and 11 are open. Thus, as shown in Fig. 1A, the plastic tube 3 extending from the dialysate pack 2 to the abdominal cavity of the patient 1 is open, and the clamp mechanism 7, 8, 1 1 Will be introduced.

In the next stage, Fig. 4B, the clamping mechanisms 7, 8, 11 are closed. That is, as shown for the clamp mechanism 7 in FIG. 5, the clamp members 7-1 and 7-2 are moved in a direction approaching each other, and the plastic tube 3 is moved by the clamp mechanisms 7, 8, and 11. It is crushed flat at three axially separated points.

Next, the heating wire cutter 9, which was located at a retracted position (not shown) separated in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper, was driven, and as shown in FIG. 4C, the clamp mechanism 7, 11 and 8, Between 11, the heating wire cutter 9 crosses the plastic tube 3 in the direction perpendicular to the plastic tube 3 (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 4C), and as a result, the plastic tube 3 is melted and cut. At this time, since the plastic tube 3 is in a tensioned state between the clamp mechanisms 7 and 11 and between the clamp mechanisms 8 and 11, a sharp cutting state by the heating wire cutter 9 can be obtained. Then, since the plastic tubes 3 from the abdominal cavity of the patient 1 and the dialysate pack 2 are crushed by the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8, the outflow of the dialysate is prevented. Also, since the heating wire cutter 9 is thin and high temperature, there is almost no adhesion of molten material when cutting, and it is said that it is almost unlimited if an appropriate wire diameter is selected and the required durability is taken into consideration. It is possible to use repeatedly several times, and it is preferable from the viewpoint of hygiene because various bacteria are also killed by the high temperature. _C Fig. 4D shows a plastic tube 3 with a heating wire cutter 9. The auxiliary clamp 11 is retracted in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, and the central part (not shown) of the cut plastic tube 3 held by the auxiliary clamp 11 is shown. Is discarded. Then, the plastic tube 3 from the patient's abdominal cavity and the electrolyte pack remains clamped by the clamp mechanisms 7, 8, but the plastic tube 3 from the clamp mechanisms 7, 8 at the cutting end side. Tube 3 has lost its tension and The cut ends 6, 6 'of the plastic tube 3 return to a substantially circular cross section under the elasticity.

Next, the heating wire cutter 9 is retracted from the axial center position to a retracted position (not shown), and the infrared heater 10 is moved from the retracted position to the cut end of the plastic tube 8 as shown in FIG. 4E. It can be moved to a concentric position.

In the next stage, the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8 are moved axially in the direction (arrow a) facing each other from the state of Fig. 4E, and the heating of the infrared heater 10 is performed as shown in Fig. 4F. Parts 12, 12A are located slightly inside cut ends 6, 6 'of plastic tubes 3, 3A, respectively. Then, when the heating sections 12, 12A of the infrared heater 10 are located at a close distance without contact with the inner side walls of the plastic tubes 3, 3A, the movement of the clamp mechanisms 7, 8 is stopped. You. By heating the infrared heater 10, the heating sections 12 and 12 A are brought into a red heat state, and the infrared rays generated by the heating cause the inner surface and the end face of the cut end of the plastic tube 3. Exhibits a heat-melted state. In FIG. 4F, reference numerals 13 and 13 'denote the melted portions on the inner surface and the end surface of the end of the plastic tube 3 obtained by such non-contact heating by infrared rays.

Next, the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8 are quickly retracted in the direction away from each other in the axial direction (arrow al) so as to maintain the molten state of the fusion sections 13 and 13 '. Is retracted from the axis position.

In the next stage, as shown in Fig. 4G, the clamping mechanisms 7, 8 are advanced again in the direction in which they face each other (arrow a2), so that the cut ends 6, 6 'of the plastic tube 3 do not touch. However, the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 in the open state is simultaneously introduced from the retracted position to the concentric position.

Then, in stage diagram 4H, the clamp member of the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 is The plastic tube 3 is moved in the approaching direction, and the cut ends 6, 6 'of the plastic tube 3 are crushed flat, whereby the opposing inner peripheral surfaces of the melted portions 13, 13' at the end of the plastic tube 3 are brought into close contact with each other. After the welding and cooling, the sealed ends 5, 5 '(see FIG. 2 for the shape of the sealed end) are formed.

Next, the details of the connection operation of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A, which have been briefly described with reference to FIG. ID, by the working device 100 will be described step by step with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6H. Indicates the first stage, and the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 is introduced at the coaxial position so as to be coaxial with the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8. In this state, the clamp mechanisms 7, 8, and 11 are open, and as shown in FIG. 1D, the sealed end 5 of the plastic tube 3 from the patient's abdominal cavity and the plastic from the dialysate pack 2A. The sealing end 5A of the clamp tube 3A is positioned on the axis so that the crushed surface is parallel to the clamp surface of the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6B, the clamp member of the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 is moved in the uniting direction, and the flat sealing ends 5, 5A of the plastic tubes 3, 3A are attached to the auxiliary clamp mechanism. It is clamped between the clamp members of the pump mechanism 11.

Next, the heating wire cutter 9 that was in the retracted position was introduced again, and as shown in Figure 6C, the plastic tubes 3, 3A were connected between the clamp mechanisms 7, 11 and between 8, 11. The plastic tubes 3 and 3A are moved in the orthogonal direction (the direction orthogonal to the paper surface of Fig. 6C), and the plastic tubes 3 and 3A extend between the clamp mechanism 7 and the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11. The plastic tubes 3 and 3A are sharply cut between the clamp mechanisms 7 and 11 and between the clamp mechanisms 8 and 11 because the tension between the clamp mechanism and the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 is relatively high. Is done.

Figure 6D shows cutting of plastic tubes 3 and 3A by heating wire cutter 9. The auxiliary clamp 11 is retracted to a retracted position (not shown) while holding the cut portion of the plastic tube from the sealing portions 5 and 5A to the cutting portion, and the auxiliary clamp 11 is shown. The cut portions 5, 5A 'held by the lamp 11 are discarded. On the other hand, the plastic tube 3 from the abdominal cavity of the patient and the plastic tube 3A from the dialysate pack remain clamped by the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8, but are not clamped by the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8. At the cut end, the tension of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A is lost, and the cut ends 6 and 6A of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A at the cut end return to a substantially circular cross section.

Next, the heating wire cutter 9 is retracted to the retracted position again, and reaches the stage shown in FIG. 6E, where the infrared heater 10 is moved from the retracted position to a position concentric with the cut end of the plastic tube 8. Will be introduced again.

In the next stage, the clamp mechanisms 7, 8 are moved axially in the direction facing each other (arrow a2 in Fig. 6E), and as shown in Fig. 6F, the heating section of the infrared heater 10 is heated. 12 and 12A are located slightly inside the cut ends 6 and 6A of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A, respectively. Then, the movement of the clamp mechanisms 7, 8 is stopped when the heating sections 12, 12A of the infrared heater 10 are located at a close distance without contact with the inner side walls of the plastic tubes 3, 3A. When the infrared heater 10 is energized, the heating sections 12, 12A are glowed red, and the infrared rays generated by the heating cause the inner surfaces and end faces of the ends of the plastic tubes 3, 3A to be heated and melted. Present state. In Fig. 6F, 13 and 13A indicate the melted portions on the inner and outer surfaces of the ends of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A obtained by such non-contact heating by infrared rays. Then, the clamp mechanisms 7 and 8 are quickly retracted in the direction away from each other in the axial direction so as to maintain the melted state of the ends of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A (along arrow al), and The infrared heater 10 is retracted to the retract position. In the next stage, as shown in FIG. 6G, the mold 14 is moved from the retracted position to a position where it is aligned with the plastic tubes 3, 3A.

Then, in the step diagram 6H, the clamp mechanisms 7, 8 are advanced in the directions opposite to each other (the direction of the arrow a2), and the cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tube are combined into the upper and lower molds (FIG. 7B). The heated end faces at the cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tube, which are introduced into the cylindrical cavity 17 formed between 15, 15 and 16, are abutted against each other, and the fused portions 13, 13A are welded to each other to generate heat. A weld 4 is formed. Heating by the infrared heater 10 heats not only the end faces of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A, but also the inner periphery adjacent to the end faces, which increases the melting area and increases the welding allowance at the time of the sudden impact. As a result, a good fusion state can be obtained. At the time of welding, the outer circumference of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A is regulated by the inner circumference of the cylindrical cavity 17 of the molding die 14, so that it is possible to suppress the pallet of the abutting portion and obtain a clean connection state. it can. When the abutting part cools, the molding die 14 is opened up and down as shown in FIG. 7A, and at the same time, the clamping mechanisms 7 and 8 are unclamped. The dialysis solution can be circulated, and peritoneal dialysis can be performed. The temperature of the mold 14 is low and its heat capacity is much smaller than that of the melted part of the plastic tube, so that contact with the mold 14 realizes rapid cooling of the melted part of the plastic tube, The time can be reduced. Partially modified embodiment of the first embodiment

8A to 8D correspond to FIGS. 4A to 4D in the first embodiment, but show a modified embodiment in which ironing of a liquid by a clamp is performed. That is, when the clamp 7 starts to clamp the plastic tube 3, the clamps 7, 8 are positioned close to the auxiliary clamp mechanism 11 as shown in FIG. Click on plastic tube 3 The lamp is ramped, and the clamps 7, 8 are moved to their original positions in the direction away from each other as shown by the arrow al while maintaining the clamp state. As a result, the plastic tube 3 is laddered between the clamps 7 and 11 and between the clamps 8 and 11, and the liquid is transferred to the plastic tube portion outside the clamps 7 and 8. Since there is no liquid remaining in the plastic tube between the points 8 and 9, the risk of liquid leakage and evaporation of the liquid due to the heat of the heating wire is eliminated when the pipe is cut by the heating wire cutter 9 that continues. It is convenient in this respect. Even when the plastic tube 3 is connected, in the operations of FIGS. 6A to 6C, the same ironing action of the clamps 7 and 8 can be induced, and the same effect can be obtained.

In the above-described first embodiment, the heating portions 6 and 6A for heating the ends of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A have a shape that slightly protrudes from the inner surface of the plastic tube, but similar to the second embodiment described later. Even with a simple coil-shaped heating wire (see Fig. 9) separated from the end face of the plastic tube, the ends of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A can be abutted and fused without any trouble. Second embodiment

Next, a second embodiment will be described. The working device of the second embodiment includes a first pair of upper and lower rollers 18, a second pair of upper and lower rollers ^20, and a pair of upper and lower clamp mechanisms 22 between these roller pairs. Be composed. As shown in FIG. 10, the upper and lower rollers 18 and 20 are provided in a cantilever shape, are provided so as to be rotationally driven by a rotation driving device (not shown), and have an axis line formed by a linear driving device (not shown). It is provided to be movable in the direction (the direction of arrow k in FIG. 10). By moving the cantilever upper and lower rollers 18, 20 in a direction away from each other, the plastic tube 3 can be introduced between the free ends from there. Up and down Each of the clamp mechanisms 22 is composed of a pair of side clamps 24A, 24B and a center clamp 26 between the side clamps 24A, 24B. As shown in FIG. 9, these elements 24A, 24B, and 26 constituting the clamp mechanism 22 are provided in a cantilever shape, and are turned around a fulcrum at one end (not shown) to open these elements. By doing so, the plastic tube 3 can be introduced between them.

In FIG. 9, a support member 28 supports a heating wire cutter 30 for cutting the plastic tube 3 and a heating portion 32 for melting the end of the plastic tube 3. In the first embodiment, two sets of the heating wire heater 9 and the heating sections 12 and 12A are provided for each of the left and right plastic tubes, but in this embodiment, a common heating wire cutter 3 is provided. 0 and the heating section 32 are shared between the left and right plastic tubes. As in the first embodiment, the heating wire cutter 30 has a nickel wire having a diameter of 0.2 mm and a beam 34 formed of a heat-resistant electrical insulating material extending from the support member 28. It is constructed by stretching over On the other hand, the infrared heater 32 is formed by forming a nickel wire having a diameter of 0.5 mm in the form of a plane coil in this embodiment, and fixing both ends to the beam 34. The support member 28 has a linear drive unit (not shown) on the side away from the heating wire cutter 30 and the heating unit 32, and is capable of reciprocating in the horizontal direction (arrows d1, d2).

Next, the operation of disconnecting and connecting the plastic tube during peritoneal dialysis by the working device according to the second embodiment described above will be described. FIG. 11A shows the first stage, in which the upper and lower rollers 18, 20 and the upper and lower clamp mechanisms 2 are opened, and the plastic tube 3 is inserted through the opening. The insertion direction of the plastic tube 3 is indicated by arrow e in FIG.

In the next step, Figure 11B, the upper and lower clamp mechanisms 26 are closed. You. That is, the upper and lower side clamps 24A, 24B and the center clamp 26 are moved toward each other in the approaching direction (arrow f), contacted via the plastic tube 3, and the clamped plastic tube 3 The part is crushed flat.

In the next stage, Fig. 11C, the left and right roller pairs 18, 20 are moved toward each other in the approaching direction (arrow g). Roller pairs 18 and 20 crush plastic tube 3. Therefore, the liquid inside is pushed (transferred) toward the round cross-section of tube 3.

In the next stage, Fig. 11D, the plastic tubes 3 are crushed by the roller pairs 18 and 20, and the center clamps 26 of the side clamps 24A and 24B are opened and the left and right roller pairs are opened. 18 and 20 are rotated somewhat in the direction of arrow h, so that the plastic tube 3 is tensioned between the pair of rollers 18 and 20.

In the next step, FIG. 11E, the support member 28 at the retracted position in FIG. 9 is moved in the direction of the arrow dl in FIG. 9, and this direction is orthogonal to the paper in FIG. 11E. Then, the heating wire cutter 30 is cross-moved with respect to the plastic tube 3, and as a result, the plastic tube 3 is melted and cut. The cutting releases the tension of the plastic tube 3, and the cut ends 6, 6 '(see Fig. 11F) return to the circular state under the elasticity.

In the next stage, Fig. 11F, the support member 28 is further advanced in the direction of arrow dl in Fig. 9, and the heating section 32 formed by winding a nickel wire into a planar coil cuts the plastic tube 3. Faced to edges 6 and 6 '. By energizing the nickel wire forming the heating section 32, the cut tube end inner side surface and the end surface of the plastic tube 3 exhibit a heat-melted state. Then, the support member 28 is retracted in the direction of the arrow d2 in FIG. In the next stage, Fig. 11G, the upper and lower side clamps 24A, 24B and The center clamps 26 are moved in opposite directions as indicated by the arrow f, and the cut ends 6, 6 'of the plastic tube 3 are crushed flat, whereby the end of the plastic tube 3 is The opposing inner peripheral surfaces of the melted portions 13 and 13 'in FIG. 1 are brought into close contact with each other and welded to form sealed ends 5, 5' (see also FIG. 2). In the final stage, Fig. 11H, the pair of left and right rollers 18 and 20 and the clamp mechanism 22 are opened in the direction of the arrow fl, and the plastic tube 3 formed with the sealing ends 5, 5 'is pulled. Indicates that it has been pulled out.

Next, details of the connection work of the plastic tubes ³ and 3A in the second embodiment will be described step by step. At each stage of the connection work, FIGS. 12A to 12H on the left half are schematic side views at each stage of the connection work, and FIGS. 12A ′ to 12H ′ on the right half are schematic plan views. is there. FIGS. 12A and 12A ′ show the first stage, in which the upper and lower clamp mechanisms 22 each consisting of upper and lower side clamps 24A, 24B and a center clamp 26 are opened, while the lower clamp mechanism is opened. The upper and lower pairs of rollers 18 and 20 are separated from each other, and the sealing end 5 of the plastic tube 3 from the patient's abdominal cavity is introduced between the upper and lower rollers 18 on the left side. The crushed surface of the tube 3A with the sealing end 5A is introduced between the upper and lower rollers 20 on the right side. At this stage, as shown in Fig. 12A ', the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are shifted horizontally. The holding state of the plastic tube 3 by the roller pairs 18 and 20 is shown by the imaginary line P in Figs. 9 and 10, and the holding state of the plastic tube 3A is shown by the imaginary line PA in Figs.

In the next step, FIGS. 12B and 12B ', the left roller pair 18 that has clamped the plastic tube 3 is rotated in the direction of the arrow hi, and the roller 18 squeezes the plastic tube 3 as indicated by the arrow j. To the right, and to just before the right roller pair 20. Note that However, a mechanism is provided to detect the sealing end 5 of the plastic tube 3 and stop the feed of the roller 18. Then, the right side clamp 24B is moved in the approaching direction as indicated by the arrow f, and the flattened plastic tube 3 is clamped.

12C and 12C 'showing the next stage, the upper and lower right rollers 20 are rotated in the direction of the arrow hi, and the plastic tube 3A is similarly crushed and moves leftward to the position before the roller 18 in the same manner. Then, the upper and lower side clamps 24 A on the left side are moved in the approaching direction, and clamp the plastic tube 3 A which is crushed flat. Similarly, a mechanism is provided for detecting the sealing end 5A of the plastic tube 3A and stopping the feed of the roller 20. The second step (FIG. 12B and FIG. 12B ')及Pi third stage floor (FIGS. 12C and 12C') in the roller I ^8, 20 plug that by the rotation of Suchi' Kuchubu 3, 3A by Ri in plastic tube squeezing of Since the liquid is squeezed and pushed (transferred) to the round cross-section, the liquid does not remain in the cut portion, and contamination and evaporation during heating can be prevented.

In FIGS. 12D and 12D 'showing the next stage, the pair of left and right rollers 18, 20 is slightly reversed in the direction of arrow h, and the plastic tubes 3, 3A are tightened between the rollers 18, 20. Then, the support member 28 in FIG. 9 is advanced in the direction of the arrow dl in FIG. 9, and the electric heating cutter 3 ◦ is moved in a direction crossing the plastic tubes 3 and 3 A, and is first moved by the electric heating cutter 30. The plastic tube 3 A is cut next, followed by the plastic tube 3. FIGS. 12E and 12E 'show the state after cutting, and the original sealing portions separated by cutting are shown by 5' and 5A 'in FIG. 12E', respectively. Since the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are released from the tension by being cut, their open ends 6 and 6A return to a circular shape due to their elasticity. These parts 5 ', 5A' are removed and opened by opening side clamps 24A, 24B. In Figure 12F and Figure 12F ', which show the next stage, one roller pair, in this case the left roller pair 18 is held in the horizontal plane along its axis in the direction of arrow k while holding the plastic tube 3 in place. It is retracted to bring the plastic tube 3 gripped by the roller 20 directly into contact with the plastic tube 3 A gripped by the rollers 20. Then, by moving the support member 28 in FIG. 9 in the direction of the arrow dl in the same figure, the heating part 32 of the infrared heater (the nickel wire is wound into a planar coil) is made into a plastic tube. Position it directly against cut ends 6 and 6A of 3, 3A. The heating section 32 is glowed red by energization, and the infrared rays generated by the heating cause the inner surfaces and the end faces of the ends of the plastic tubes ³ and 3A to be in a heated and molten state.

In FIGS. 12G and 12G ′ showing the next stage, a split mold 36 having a semicircular cross section similar to the upper and lower molds 15 and 16 in the first embodiment (the split mold 36 is formed as shown in FIG. 9) It can be formed integrally with the clamp mechanism 22), so that the cut ends ⁶ , 6A of the plastic tubes ³ , 3A are sandwiched from above and below, and are formed when the upper and lower dies 15, 16 are combined. The cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tubes 3, 3A face the molding cavity 38 with a circular cross section, and at the same time, the left and right roller pairs 18, 20 are rotated in the direction of the arrow hi. As a result, the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are moved in the direction facing each other in the same manner as the operation described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, and the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are heated at the cut ends 6 and 6A. end faces are provided abutting in the molding cavity 3 in 8 of circular cross section, the molten portion I ^3, 13A leads to mutually soluble Chakusuru.

In FIGS. 12H and 12H 'showing the final stage, the roller pairs 18, 20 and the clamp members 24A, 24B, 26 are opened, and the left and right plastic tubes 3, 3A are joined by the heat-welded portion 4 similar to that in FIG. Connected. In the second embodiment described above, the rotation of the rollers 18 and 20 causes the The feeding is securely applied to the stick tubes 3 and 3A, and when connecting the sealing ends 5 and 5A, regardless of the position of the sealing ends 5 and 5A with respect to the rollers 18 and 20 in Fig. 12A when connecting the sealing ends 5 and 5A. There is a merit that allows the liquid remaining in the cut part of the plastic tube to be transferred and discharged to the circular cross section outside the clamp. Further, compared with the first embodiment, since only one heating wire heater 30 and one heating unit 32 are required, there is an advantage that the number of parts can be reduced. Third embodiment ''

FIGS. 13 to 16H show a third embodiment, which is the same as the second embodiment in that the heating parts of the heating wire cutter and the infrared heater are shared by the left and right plastic tubes. It is. However, the roller pair in the second embodiment is not used, and a clamp mechanism having an L-shaped cross section is used instead. That is, the clamp mechanism 40 includes upper and lower clamp members 42 on the left and upper and lower clamps 44 on the right. The clamps 42 and 44 have an L-shaped cross section, and the clamps 42 and The lower side of 44 extends to face each other. A center clamp 46 is provided between the left and right L-shaped clamps 42 and 44 so as to face vertically. These clamp members 42, 44, 46 are provided at the free end of the lever as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, and when the clamp mechanism 22 is opened, the plastic tube is higher than the free end side. Can be introduced. Although not shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, auxiliary guides 48 and 50 for lateral movement of the plastic tube are provided with L-shaped cross sections as shown in FIGS. 16B and 16B ′. It is installed outside the pumps 42 and 44. In addition, upper and lower halves 52 having semicircular inner surfaces are installed in the clamp mechanism. Since the structures of the moving member 28 and the heating wire cutter 30 and the infrared heater 32 mounted thereon are the same as those in the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the parts having the same functions in FIG. The description is omitted.

Hereinafter, the cutting and connecting work of the plastic tube according to the third embodiment will be described. In FIG. 15A showing the first stage, the upper and lower clamp mechanisms 40 are in an opened ready state.

In the next step, FIG. 15B, the plastic tube 3 is introduced between the open and closed clamp mechanisms 40.

In FIG. 15C, which shows the next stage, the upper and lower center clamps 46 of the clamp mechanism 40 are moved in the approaching direction as indicated by arrow f, and hit the center clamp 46. The area of the plastic tube 3 that comes into contact is crushed flat.

In Fig. 15D, which shows the next stage, the left and right and left and right side clamps 42 are moved in the opposite directions as indicated by the arrow f ', respectively, while maintaining the clamped state by the center clamp 46. The portion of the plastic tube 3 that abuts the side clamps 42 and 44 is also crushed flat. By making the side clamps 42 and 44 L-shaped, the ironing action by the rollers as in the second embodiment is not performed, and only the clamping operation is performed at the plastic cutting section. The liquid can be reliably transferred to the round cross section, and the liquid can be prevented from remaining at the cutting section.

In Fig. 15E, which shows the next stage, the left and right side clamps 42, 44 holding the plastic tube 3 are slightly moved in the direction away from each other as indicated by the arrows, and the distance between the side clamps 42, 44 is increased. The plastic tube 3 gripped by the tube receives tension. Then, the support member 28 at the retracted position in FIG. 13 is moved in the direction of the arrow dl in the same figure, and as a result, the heating wire power 30 is moved in the direction of the arrow dl with respect to the plastic tube 3. In the direction (perpendicular to the paper plane in Fig. 15E), and as a result, the plastic tube 3 is melt-cut. The cutting releases the tension of the plastic tube 3, and the cut end returns to a circular state under its elasticity. Cut The damaged end is indicated by 6, 6A.

In FIG. 15F, which shows the next stage, the supporting member 28 is further advanced in the direction of arrow dl in FIG. 13 (in the direction crossing the paper in FIG. 15F), and the nickel wire is wound into a planar coil. The heated section 32 is made to face the cut ends 6 and 6A of the plastic tube 3. Then, by energizing the nickel wire constituting the heating section 32, the inner surfaces and the end surfaces of the cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tube 3 exhibit a heated molten state.

In the next step, FIG. 15G, the center clamps 46 are moved towards each other, the cut ends 6, 6 'of the plastic tube 3 are crushed flat, and the plastic tube 3 The opposing inner peripheral surfaces of the fused portions 13 and 13 'at the ends are brought into close contact with each other and welded to form sealed ends 5, 5' (see FIG. 2).

In FIG. 15H showing the last stage, the side clamps 42 and 44 and the center clamp 46 are opened, and the cutting process of the plastic tube 3 is completed.

Next, the details of the connection work of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A according to the third embodiment will be described step by step with reference to FIGS. 168 to 16H. FIG. 16A shows the first step. This indicates that the upper and lower clamp mechanisms 40 have been opened.

In the next stage, as shown in Fig. 16B, the plastic tube 3 moves from the left side as shown by the arrow m while being guided by the guide 48, and seals the plastic tube 3 from the patient's abdominal cavity. The end ⁵ is introduced from between the left clamps 42, and the flattened sealing end 5 is positioned by abutting the stopper 60, and the right clamp 44 and the right clamp 44 are positioned. Aligned. At the same time, as shown in FIG. 16B ', the plastic tube 3A moves from the right side as indicated by the arrow m while being guided by the guide 50, and the plastic tube from the dialysate pack is moved. Tube 3A The sealing end 5A is introduced from between the right clamps 44 and positioned by contacting the stopper 62, and the flattened sealing end 5A is positioned on the left clamp. Aligned with lamp 42. In FIGS. 13 and 14, the phantom line P indicates the clamped state of the plastic tube 3, and the phantom line PA indicates the clamped state of the plastic tube 3A.

In the next step, Figure 16C, the upper and lower center clamps 46 are moved closer together, flattening the portion of the plastic tube 3 connected to the sealing end 5, and at the same time the center clamp 46 As shown in Fig. 16C ', crush flat the plastic tube 3A connected to the sealed end 5A.

In the next stage, as shown in Fig. 16D, the L-shaped clamp 42 on the left side is moved in the approaching direction as shown by the arrow f, and the portion clamped by the center clamp 46 The plastic tube 3 adjacent to the plastic tube 3 is crushed flat, and at the same time, as shown in FIG. 16D ', the right cross-sectional L-shaped clamp 44 is moved in the approaching direction as indicated by the arrow f, and the center clamp 4 6 The portion of the plastic tube 3A adjacent to the portion clamped by the flattened portion is crushed flat, so that the plastic tubes on the sealing end portions 5 and 5A side by the clamps 42 and 44 are flattened and crushed. the liquid in Fig. 1 6 E showing the interior of the _c following steps that can have a this to eliminate residual of the liquid in the cut portion is migrated to a round cross section, the left and right cross-section L Katachiku lamp 42, 44 is an arrow a Moved in the direction between two directions, clamps 42 and 44 Plastic tube 3 Te smell, 3A is subjected to tension. Then, the supporting member 28 is advanced in the direction of the arrow dl in FIG. 13, and the electric heating cutter 30 is moved in a direction crossing the plastic tubes 3 and 3A. A then plastic tube 3 is cut.

Figure 16F shows the plastic tubes 3 and 3A after cutting. Since the tension is released by the cutting, the elasticity of the plastic tubes 3, 3A causes the open ends 6, 6A to return to a circular shape. Thereafter, the clamps 42 and 44 are independently moved in a direction perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 16F, and the elasticity of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A aligns the open ends 6 and 6A. Let it. In Fig. 13, the phantom line P 'indicates that the plastic tubes 3 and 3A are finally aligned in the axial direction, and the plastic tube ³ and 3A is located above the plastic tubes ³ and 3A located along the imaginary line P'. It can be seen that the half mold 52 is located. This step is the same as the operation of FIGS. 12E and 12E ′ to FIGS. 12F and 12F ′ in the second embodiment. Further, by further linear movement of the support member 28 in FIG. 13 in the direction of the arrow dl, the heating section 32 of the infrared heater is directly opposed to the cut ends 6 and 6A of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A. Position. The energization causes the heating part 32 to glow red, and the infrared rays generated by this cause the inner and inner surfaces of the ends of the plastic tubes 3, 3A to be heated and melted. Present.

In Fig. 16G, which shows the next stage, the cut ends of the plastic tubes 3, 3A are formed by the upper and lower split molds 52 having semicircular inner peripheral surfaces similar to those in Figs. 7A and 7B. The left and right cross section: L-shaped clamp 42 is moved in the approaching direction as indicated by arrow al while holding 6 and 6A from above and below, and the circular cross section formed when upper and lower dies 52 are combined is formed. The cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tubes 3, 3A are moved toward the cavities 38 so as to face each other, and abutting welding of the molten portion by infrared heating is performed.

In Fig. 16H, the left and right cross-section L-shaped clamps 42 are separated vertically and the split mold 52 at the center is opened vertically, and is heated at the cut ends 6, 6A of the plastic tube. The welded portions 13 and 13A are welded to each other to form a heat-welded portion 4 similar to that shown in FIG. In the third embodiment described above, the clamp 42 having an L-shaped cross section is flat. The plastic tube is clamped in some parts, and the liquid inside the plastic tube can be squeezed simply by approaching the clamp without complicated operations such as rotation. There is an advantage that can be simplified. Modified embodiment

Through the first to third embodiments described above, when connecting the plastic tubes ³ and 3A, a thin heat-shrinkable plastic sleeve is attached around the welded end face, and the plastic sleeve is heated by welding. The heat-shrinkage of the tube can strengthen the connection. Hereinafter, this modified example will be described in relation to FIG. 6G in the first embodiment, but it is applied equally to the second and third examples. In FIG. 17A, the forming mold at the time of connection is composed of an upper mold half 54 having a semicircular cross section and a lower mold half 56 having the same semicircular cross section. The plastic tubes 3 and 3A clamped by the clamps 7 and 8, respectively, have their open ends 6 and 6A heated by infrared rays. On the lower mold 56, a thin sleeve 58 made of a heat-shrinkable plastic material is supplied from supply means (not shown). In this state, the heated open ends 6, 6A of the plastic tubes 3, 3A are moved to the sleeves 58, 8 by moving the clamps 7, 8 in the approaching direction as indicated by an arrow a2. In parallel with this, the upper and lower dies 54 and 56 are mutually matched in the direction of arrow f as shown in Fig. 17B, and a circular cavity is formed between the dies 54 and 56. While the outer circumference is regulated, the end faces are welded by the contact of the open ends 6 and 6A to form a heat-welded portion 4, and at the same time, the sleeve 58 on the outer circumference side thermally contracts due to the heat. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 18, a structure is obtained in which the periphery of the welded portion 4 at the open ends 6 and 6A is reinforced by the thermally contracted sleep 58. As shown in Fig. 17A and Fig. 17B, the split dies 54 and 56 are notched because the surface facing the plastic thin sleeve 58 is notched. Contact is made only at the end 54-1, so that the split dies 54, 56 minimize heat dissipation during contact and the heated open ends of the plastic tubes 3, 3 A The heat generated when 6, 6A is welded causes the plastic thin-walled sleeve 58 to thermally contract. By enclosing the outer periphery of the end welded portion 4 with the heat shrink sleeve 58, the strength and reliability of the end welded portions of the plastic tubes 3 and 3A can be further improved.

In the above embodiments, the non-contact heater is infrared heating using an electric heater, but this is merely an example, and other non-contact heating methods, for example, hot air Heating or laser heating can be used.

In the above embodiment, the clamped plastic tubes 3 and 3A are fixed, and the plastic heating tubes 3 and 3A are cut by moving the heating wire cutters 9 and 30. In some cases, cutting by moving the plastic tubes 3 and 3A is also possible. In short, it is good if the heating wire cutter and the plastic tube can be moved relative to each other in the cross direction.

As described above, the infrared heaters 10 and 32 in this embodiment also achieve the function of killing various bacteria near the open end of the plastic tube and preventing contamination by the bacteria due to the high temperature. A sterilizing device using ultraviolet light or the like can be incorporated into the device 100 in order to ensure that the bacteria can be prevented from entering the plastic tubes 3 and 3A during the sealing or connection work. Industrial applications

The present invention eliminates the invasion of various bacteria in plastics in peritoneal dialysis, other hemodialysis, and treatment of culture in biotechnology, etc. It can be used when measures such as cutting, sealing, and connecting tubes are required.

Claims

The scope of the claims

1. A method of processing a plastic tube to cut it. The plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape between a pair of parts spaced apart in the same direction in order to tension the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction, and between the pair of clamp portions. A method of melting and cutting a plastic tube by moving a linear heating element in a direction crossing the plastic tube.

2. This is a method of treating the plastic tube in such a way that the cut end of the plastic tube is sealed, in which the plastic tube is flattened close to the cut end and the plastic tube end surface close to the clamp is closed. When the plastic tube is opened, at least the inner peripheral surface facing the open end of the plastic tube is heated in a non-contact manner until it reaches a molten state, and the plastic tube end is crushed from the outer peripheral side. A method in which the opposing inner peripheral surfaces are welded together to seal the cut end of the plastic tube.

3. A method of connecting the cut end faces of a pair of plastic tubes so that the portions close to the cut end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are made flat and the end faces are opened in a substantially circular shape. Clamps and heats at least the open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes in a non-contact manner until it reaches a molten state, and moves each plastic tube in a direction approaching each other while regulating the outer circumference. A method of abutting and welding opposing open end faces.

4. A method of processing to cut a plastic tube, in which the plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape between a pair of parts separated in the same direction to tension the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction, and is linear between a pair of clamp parts. A method of melting and cutting a plastic tube by moving a heating element and a plastic tube in a direction that intersects relatively.

5. This is a method of treating the cut end of the plastic tube so as to seal it. The plastic tube is clamped flat near the cut end, and the end of the plastic tube close to the clamp is closed. Open the plastic tube, heat at least the inner surface of the plastic tube facing the open end until it reaches a molten state in a non-contact manner, and crush the end of the plastic tube from the outer side. A method in which opposing inner peripheral surfaces are welded to each other, thereby sealing the cut end of the plastic tube.

6. A method of connecting the cut end surfaces of a pair of plastic tubes so that the portions close to the cut end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes are made flat and the end surfaces are opened in a substantially circular shape. Clamps and heats at least the open end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes until it reaches a molten state in a non-contact manner, and makes the heated open end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes face each other, and also applies the respective plastic tubes. A method of contacting and welding opposing open end faces by moving them in a direction approaching each other while regulating their outer circumferences.

7. A method of treating the ends of a plastic tube in such a manner that the ends of the plastic tube are flattened from the outside at a pair of parts spaced apart in the same direction so as to be tensioned in the longitudinal direction, and a pair of the clamps is formed. The plastic tube is cut in a molten state by the relative movement of the linear heating element and the plastic tube in the cross direction between the lamps, and at least the inner peripheral part of the plastic tube that faces the cut end A non-contact heating of the plastic tube and crushing the plastic tube from the outside so that the heated inner peripheral portions are fused to each other, thereby sealing an end of the plastic tube.

8. Sealing the end of the plastic tube with liquid inside it, a process of wrapping the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction The liquid between the clamp portions is transferred to the plastic tube portion outside the clamp portion while flattening the clamp from the outside at the pair of portions separated in the same direction so as to be strained on the pair of clamps. The plastic tube is cut in a molten state by the relative movement of the linear heating element and the plastic tube in the intersecting direction between the parts, and at least the inner peripheral part of the plastic tube facing the cut end is not in contact. The plastic tube is heated and crushed from the outside to cause fusion of the heated inner peripheral parts, thereby sealing the end of the plastic tube having a liquid inside. Method.

9. In a method of connecting a pair of plastic tubes, each of which is sealed at one end, a pair of plastic tubes are flattened at a position close to each sealed end, and the clamps are clamped. By holding the plastic tube so that it is tensioned in the axial direction on the sealed end side of the plastic tube, the linear heating element and the plastic tube are relatively moved in the cross direction to cut the plastic tube. The plastic tube at the sealing end side of the plastic tube is cut off and the sealing end of the plastic tube is opened, so that at least the open end surface of the pair of plastic tubes is non-contact. And the heated open end faces of the pair of plastic tubes are axially opposed to each other. The plastic tubing is moved in a direction close to each other in the axial direction while regulating its outer circumference, and the heated piercing end faces of a pair of plastic tubes are brought into contact with each other to fuse the piercing end faces. How to dress.

10. A method of connecting a pair of plastic tubes, each of which is sealed at one end and having a liquid inside, by flattening each plastic tube at a location close to the sealed end. Fluid moves from the sealing end to the separation side to the clamp At the same time, the plastic tube is held so as to be tensioned in the axial direction on the sealing end side from the clamp portion, and the linear heating element and the plastic tube are relatively crossed. By moving and cutting the plastic tube, the plastic tube on the sealed end side from the clamp is cut off, and the sealed end of the plastic tube is opened to open a pair of plastic tubes. At least the open end faces are heated in a non-contact manner, and when a pair of plastic tubes are positioned in the axial direction, they move in a direction approaching each other in the axial direction while regulating the outer circumference of the plastic tubes. Then, the heated open end faces of a pair of plastic tubes are brought into contact with each other to fuse the open end faces together. .

1 1. The method according to claim 10, wherein the welded portion of the plastic tube is surrounded by a heat-shrinkable plastic film.

12. A device for processing a plastic tube to cut it, which clamps a linear heating element and a flat tube between a pair of parts separated in the same direction while tensioning the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction. An apparatus for melting and cutting a plastic tube by relatively moving in a crossing direction of the linear heating element and the plastic tube in the vicinity of the clamp means, comprising a lamp means.

13. A device that cuts a plastic tube that has a liquid inside. It is flat between a linear heating element and a pair of parts that are separated in the same direction while tensioning the plastic tube in the longitudinal direction. A clamp means for clamping, and means for transferring the liquid between the clamp parts to a portion of the plastic tube outside the clamp part, wherein the clamp means is provided between the clamp parts by the clamp means. This device melts and cuts the plastic tube by moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube relatively in the cross direction.

14. A device for treating the cut end of a plastic tube to seal the cut end, wherein the plastic tube is clamped in a flat shape close to the opening with the cut end opened. Means and a heating means for heating at least the inner peripheral surface of the plastic tube facing the open end until it reaches a molten state, and crushing the end of the plastic tube from the outer peripheral side. And a holding means for holding the melted inner peripheral surface at the open end of the plastic tube so as to bring it into close contact, and sealing the cut end of the plastic tube.

15. A device for connecting the cut end surfaces of a pair of plastic tubes so as to connect the cut end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes, where the portion near the cut end surfaces is flat and the end surfaces are substantially circularly opened. A clamping means for clamping in such a manner, a heating means for heating at least the open end surfaces of the pair of plastic tubes until they reach a molten state, and regulating the outer periphery of the plastic tube. Regulating means, and the opposed openings by moving the plastic tubes in a direction approaching each other while regulating the outer circumference thereof with the heated opening end faces of the plastic tubes facing in the axial direction. A device that abuts and welds end faces.

16. A device for treating the end of a plastic tube to seal it. The plastic tube is tensioned in the longitudinal direction and clamped from the outside so as to be flat at a pair of parts separated in the same direction. The clamp means, the linear heating element, and the plastic material at a position close to each of the clamp means due to the relative movement of the plastic tube and the linear heating element between the pair of clamp sections in the cross direction. Cutting means for cutting the tube in a molten state, and heating means for heating at least the inner peripheral portion of the plastic tube facing the cut end in a non-contact manner; And sealing means for sealing the ends of the plastic tube extending to the liquid storage portion by crushing the plastic tube from the outside to cause fusion of the heated inner peripheral portions to each other. This is the device.

17. A device that seals the end of a plastic tube that has a liquid inside. The plastic tube is stretched in the longitudinal direction and flattened at a pair of parts separated in the same direction. Clamp means for clamping from the outside as described above, means for transferring the liquid between the clamp parts to the plastic tube part outside the clamp part, a linear heating element, and a means for clamping between the pair of clamp parts. Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube in a molten state between the clamping means by the crosswise movement of the plastic tube and the linear heating element, and at least the inside of the plastic tube facing the cut end. Heating means for heating the peripheral part in a non-contact manner and crushing the plastic tube from the outside to fuse the heated inner peripheral parts to each other And a sealing means for sealing the end of the plastic tube extending to the liquid container.

18. In a device for processing a pair of plastic tubes, each sealed at one end, means to clamp the pair of plastic tubes flat at a location adjacent to the sealed end. And a holding means for holding the sealing end of the plastic tube extending from the clamp so as to be tensioned in the axial direction, and intersecting the linear heating element, the plastic tube and the linear heating element. A cutting means that cuts the plastic tube in a molten state at a position close to each clamp part by making relative movement in the direction, and at least the open end of a pair of plastic tubes is not in contact with the open end Heating means for electrically heating, outer circumference regulating means for regulating the outer circumference of the pair of plastic tubes, and a pair of plastic tubes The heated open end axis When the pair of plastic tubes are moved in a direction approaching each other in the axial direction while restricting the outer periphery by the outer periphery restricting means in a state where they are opposed to each other in the direction, the open ends of the plastic tubes are welded to each other. A connection means for connecting.

19. In a device for processing to connect a pair of plastic tubes, each sealed at one end and having a fluid inside, the pair of plastic tubes are flattened at a position close to the sealed end. Means for ramping, means for transferring the liquid from the sealed end to the clamp part to the side away from the sealed end, and means for axially extending the sealed end of the plastic tube extending from the clamp part. The holding means for holding them in tension, the linear heating element, and the relative movement of the plastic tube and the linear heating element in the direction intersecting with each other make it possible to approach each clamp part. Cutting means for cutting the plastic tube at the site in a molten state, and heating means for heating at least the open ends of the pair of plastic tubes in a non-contact manner; Outer peripheral regulating means for regulating the outer periphery of a pair of plastic tubes, and moving a pair of plastic tubes having heated open ends facing each other in the axial direction within the outer peripheral regulating means. And a connecting means for welding and connecting the open ends of the plastic tube.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the outer periphery of the welded portion of the plastic tube is surrounded by a heat-shrinkable plastic sleeve.

A device further comprising:

21. A device for processing a plastic tube, comprising a pair of spaced clamp means for flattening a plastic tube, and a pair of clamp means arranged between each pair of clamp means. Tension the plastic tube extending from the clamping means in the longitudinal direction Holding means for holding as much as possible; a linear heating element; and cutting means for moving the linear heating element and the plastic tube relatively close to each clamp means in the cross direction to cut the plastic tube in a molten state. A heating means for heating the inner periphery and the end face of the plastic tube in a non-contact manner.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said heating means is an infrared ray generating means for generating an infrared ray to be radiated to a portion to be heated.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the infrared ray generating means is an electrothermal heater.

24. The apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising a regulating means for regulating an outer periphery of the plastic tube at the time of welding.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein said outer circumference restricting means is a split mold that forms a cylindrical space having an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the plastic tube when united.

26. In the apparatus according to claim 21, the plastic tube has a liquid inside, and the liquid at the portion of the plastic tube held by the holding means is discharged outside the clamp portion. The device has a means to transfer to the plastic tube.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said transition means includes a pair of clamp members for gripping the plastic tube, and means for laterally moving the clamp member.

28. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said transition means includes a pair of rollers for holding the plastic tube, and means for moving the rollers laterally.

29. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein said transition means is a pair of clamp members having a substantially L-shaped cross section whose bottom faces abut the plastic tube.