Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
  • F16D7/00—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock
  • F16D7/002—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock the torque being transmitted and limited by yielding of an elastomeric race
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
  • F16D43/00—Automatic clutches
  • F16D43/02—Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
  • F16D43/20—Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure
  • F16D43/202—Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure of the ratchet type
  • F16D43/2022—Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure of the ratchet type with at least one part moving axially between engagement and disengagement
  • F16D43/2024—Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure of the ratchet type with at least one part moving axially between engagement and disengagement the axially moving part being coaxial with the rotation, e.g. a gear with face teeth
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
  • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
  • A61M39/10—Tube connectors; Tube couplings
  • A61M39/1011—Locking means for securing connection; Additional tamper safeties
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
  • F16D7/00—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock
  • F16D7/04—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type
  • F16D7/048—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type with parts moving radially between engagement and disengagement
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
  • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
  • A61M39/10—Tube connectors; Tube couplings
  • A61M2039/1033—Swivel nut connectors, e.g. threaded connectors, bayonet-connectors
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
  • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
  • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
  • A61M39/10—Tube connectors; Tube couplings
  • A61M2039/1044—Verifying the connection, e.g. audible feedback, tactile feedback, visual feedback, using external light sources

Definitions

• the present disclosure generally relates to connectors, and, in particular, to torque limiting connectors.
• Medical treatments often include the infusion of a medical fluid (e.g., a saline solution or a liquid medication) to patients using an intravenous (IV) catheter that is connected though an arrangement of flexible tubing and fittings, commonly referred to as an“IV set,” to a source of fluid, for example, an IV bag.
• IV intravenous
• tubing, syringes, needles and other medical equipment are made with threaded connectors and/or a universal luer conical fitting that may be tightened to make it leak-free.
• a torque limiting connector comprising an outer connector comprising a profile disposed on an inner surface of the outer connector; an inner connector disposed within the outer connector, the inner connector comprising: an upper threaded portion; and a lower threaded portion; and a clutch disposed around and rotationally coupled to the inner connector, the clutch comprising a plurality of clutch teeth extending from an outer surface of the clutch, wherein the plurality of clutch teeth are outwardly biased to be releasably engaged with the profile of the outer connector, wherein the plurality of clutch teeth are configured to transfer an operational torque from the outer connector to the inner connector when the operational torque is below a torque limit, and the plurality of clutch teeth are forced inward to disengage the profile of the outer connector and prevent transfer of the operational torque when the operational torque exceeds the torque limit.
• a torque limiting connector comprising an outer connector comprising a profile disposed on an inner surface of the outer connector; an inner connector disposed within the outer connector, the inner connector comprising: an upper threaded portion; and a lower threaded portion; and a clutch disposed around and rotationally coupled to the inner connector, the clutch comprising a plurality of clutch teeth extending from an outer surface of the clutch, wherein the plurality of clutch teeth are outwardly biased to be releasably engaged with the profile of the outer connector, wherein the plurality of clutch teeth are configured to permit the outer connector to rotate the inner connector when an operational torque is below a torque limit, and the plurality of clutch teeth are forced inward to disengage the profile of the outer connector and permit rotation of the outer connector relative to the inner connector when the operational torque exceeds the torque limit.
• a method to tighten a connection comprises threadedly engaging a first connector with a second connector; rotating an outer connector of the first connector at an operational torque below a connection torque limit; and rotating an inner connector of the first connector via the rotation of the outer connector, wherein a clutch rotationally engages the inner connector and the outer connector.
• FIG. l is a perspective view of a connector assembly, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 2 is an elevation view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 6 is a detail view of the connector assembly of FIG. 5, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• the disclosed torque limiting connector incorporates a two-part connector with a clutch.
• the clutch can be disposed between the inner connector and the outer connector to limit torque to the inner connector. By limiting torque to the inner connector, overtightening of connectors can be prevented, preventing damage to connectors and simplifying removal.
• the disclosed torque limiting connector overcomes several challenges discovered with respect to certain conventional connectors.
• One challenge with certain conventional connectors is that threaded connectors may be easily overtightened if the engagement surfaces are wet, such as from a disinfectant. Further, clinicians may overtighten conventional connectors to prevent leaks.
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connector assembly 100, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 2 is an elevation view of the connector assembly 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• the connector assembly 100 facilitates a fluid connection with a mating connector.
• the inner connector 110 can be threaded to a mating connector at the upper end and/or the lower end.
• the connector assembly 100 can be utilized with medical tubing.
• the outer connector 120 can be twisted to tighten the threaded connections of the inner connector 110.
• a desired tightness or torque is specified for the connection between the connector assembly 100 and the mating connector.
• clinicians may overtighten connections.
• the disconnecting force for a connection may be higher after disinfecting the connectors.
• Mating connections may be disassembled or removed by twisting the connector assembly 100 in the opposite direction.
• the connector assembly 100 prevents the inner connector 110 from being overtightened to a mating connector. During operation, until the desired torque is reached, rotation of the outer connector 120 rotates the inner connector 110, tightening the mating connection therebetween.
• a clutch mechanism prevents the outer connector 120 from further tightening the inner connector 110. Therefore, after the desired torque is reached, the outer connector 120 may be rotated independently of the inner connector 110.
• the connector assembly 100 can provide feedback or signals to the user that the desired mating torque has been reached. For example, upon rotation of the outer connector 120 after a desired torque is reached, the connector assembly 100 may provide an auditory or tactile signal or feedback (such as a “click”).
• FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• a clutch 130 permits the connector assembly 100 to limit the amount of torque delivered to the inner connector 110 from the outer connector 120.
• the clutch 130 is rotatably coupled with the inner connector 110 and releasably engaged with the outer connector 120. Therefore, during operation, the clutch 130 allows the outer connector 120 to rotate the inner connector 110 until a desired maximum torque is achieved.
• the clutch 130 may be disposed between the inner connector 110 and the outer connector 120.
• the clutch 130 is concentrically disposed about the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 can be disposed along the tapered outer surface 115 of the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 can be axially retained relative to the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 can be axially retained in a clutch groove 117 defined by an angled flange 116 formed on the tapered outer surface 115 of the inner connector 110.
• the outer connector 120 can include features to axially retain the clutch 130.
• the angled flange 116 can have an angled surface to facilitate assembly of the clutch 130 onto the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 can receive rotational torque from the outer connector 120. Further, as illustrated, the clutch teeth 132 extend from an outer surface 131 of the clutch 130 to interface with an inner profile of the outer connector 120. The interface of the clutch teeth 132 with the outer connector 120 allows for torque to be transferred to the clutch 130.
• the outer connector 120 is disposed about the inner connector 110 and the clutch 130.
• the outer connector 120 is concentrically disposed about the inner connector 110 and the clutch 130.
• the outer connector 120 is axially retained relative to the inner connector 110.
• the outer connector 120 can snap fit over the angled flange 116 of the inner connector 110 to axially retain the outer connector 120 relative to the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 is rotationally coupled with the inner connector 110 to permit the clutch 130 and the inner connector 110 to rotate together.
• the clutch 130 transfers rotational torque to the inner connector 110 via dogs or features 134 formed on the inner surface of the clutch 130 that engage with the outer surface of the inner connector 110.
• the features 134 of the clutch 130 engage with the slots or channels 118 formed in the tapered outer surface 115 of the inner connector 110. Therefore, during operation, torque from the outer connector 120 is transferred to the inner connector 110 via the clutch 130 to rotate the inner connector 110 relative to any mating connectors.
• the inner connector 110 includes an upper threaded portion 112 and a lower threaded portion 114.
• the upper threaded portion 112 and/or the lower threaded portion 114 can be tightened.
• the threaded surface 113 of the upper threaded portion 112 can be tightened into a mating connector at a desired torque or until the upper threaded portion 112 bottoms out against the mating connector.
• the lower threaded portion 114 can be tightened into a mating connector at a desired torque or until the lower threaded portion 114 bottoms out against the mating connector.
• the outer connector 120 can rotate the inner connector 110 until the predetermined maximum torque is achieved.
• the clutch teeth 132 can disengage from the outer connector 120, permitting the outer connector 120 to spin without tightening the inner connector 110.
• the number of clutch teeth 132 in engagement with the outer connector 120 can determine the maximum torque that can be imparted from the outer connector 120 to the inner connector 110 prior to disengaging the outer connector 120.
• the clutch 130 can include more clutch teeth 132 to allow the outer connector 120 to impart more torque to the inner connector 110, while in some embodiments, the clutch 130 can include fewer clutch teeth 132 to allow the outer connector 120 to impart less torque to the inner connector 110.
• the clutch 130 can include one clutch tooth 132, three clutch teeth 132, five clutch teeth 132, or any other suitable number of clutch teeth 132.
• the clutch 130 can permit the outer connector 120 to loosen the inner connector 110 from any mating connectors.
• the clutch 130 and the outer connector 120 may interface to limit loosening torque.
• FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 6 is a detail view of the connector assembly of FIG. 5, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.
• clutch teeth 132 releasably engage against the connector profile 122 of the outer connector 120 to receive or transfer torque from the outer connector 120.
• the outer connector 120 is rotated, thereby rotating the connector profile 122.
• the rotation of the connector profile 122 transmits torque to the clutch teeth 132 and thereby to the inner connector 110.
• the outer connector 120 can continue to provide torque to or otherwise rotate the inner connector 110 as long as the clutch teeth 132 remain in engagement with the connector profile 122.
• the clutch teeth 132 extend radially outward toward the connector profile 122. As shown, the clutch teeth 132 are outwardly biased to maintain engagement with the connector profile 122. In some embodiments, the clutch teeth 132 are resiliently or elastically biased toward the connector profile 122. In some applications, the biasing force of the clutch teeth 132 can be modified by selecting the material, thickness, depth, and other characteristics of the clutch teeth 132 and the clutch 130. Optionally, the angle or geometry of the bend 133 of the clutch teeth 132 can be modified to adjust the biasing force of the clutch teeth.
• the connector profile 122 includes a plurality of engagement features 124 that can transfer rotational force from the outer connector 120 to the engaged clutch teeth 132 in a tangent direction to provide torque to the inner connector 110 and/or force in a radial direction to urge the clutch teeth 132 inwardly and out of engagement with the connector profile 122.
• an engagement feature 124 that transfers rotational force from the outer connector 120 to a clutch tooth 132 in a primarily tangential direction will transfer proportionally more torque than inward radial force to a clutch tooth 132 compared to an engagement feature 124 that transfers rotational force from the outer connector 120 to the clutch tooth 132 in a primarily radial direction (the engagement feature 124 extending primarily tangent to the outer connector 120), which may transfer less torque and more inward radial force to the clutch tooth 132.
• the engagement features 124 can include a combination tangent and radial components to control the proportion of torque that is transferred from the outer connector 120 to the inner connector 110 and the amount of inward radial force that is applied to the clutch teeth 132.
• the clutch teeth 132 are disengaged from the outer connector 120 and allow the outer connector 120 to rotate relative to the inner connector 110, limiting torque transferred to the inner connector 110.
• the disengaged clutch teeth 132 may provide an audible and/or tactile signal to the user.
• the amount of torque that is applied to the inner connector 110 prior to disengaging the clutch teeth 132 can be controlled.
• the relative angle of the engagement features 124 can be adjusted to have a higher operational torque limit or a lower operational torque limit.
• the connector assembly 100 can provide different torque limits for tightening and loosening.
• the connector assembly 100 may provide a lower torque limit for tightening the connector assembly 100 and a higher torque limit for loosening the connector assembly 100.
• the engagement features 124 may be asymmetric. As shown, the profile on the leading side 126 of the engagement feature 124 may differ from the profile on the trailing side 128 of the engagement feature 124. In some embodiments, the leading side 126 may allow for less torque to be imparted in the tightening direction (the leading side 126 extending relatively tangent to the outer connector 120) while the trailing side 128 may allow for greater torque to be imparted in the loosening direction (the trailing side 128 extending relatively normal to the outer connector 120).
• the engagement features 124 can include varying geometric features.
• the engagement features 124 can be rounded or angular to facilitate or inhibit the clutch teeth 132 to disengaging from the connector profile 122.
• complimentary geometric features of the tooth profile 135 of the clutch tooth 132 can be altered to engage with the engagement features 124.
• a reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean“one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather“one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term“some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.
• a phrase such as an“aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology.
• a disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations.
• An aspect may provide one or more examples.
• a phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa.
• a phrase such as an“embodiment” does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology.
• a disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments.
• An embodiment may provide one or more examples.
• a phrase such an embodiment may refer to one or more embodiments and vice versa.
• a phrase such as a“configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology.
• a disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations.
• a configuration may provide one or more examples.
• a phrase such a configuration may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.
• the term“coupled” or the like may refer to being directly coupled. In another aspect, the term“coupled” or the like may refer to being indirectly coupled.
• Terms such as“top,”“bottom,”“front,”“rear” and the like if used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame of reference.
• a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a rear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Anesthesiology (AREA)
• Hematology (AREA)
• Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
• Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
• General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Public Health (AREA)
• Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
• Biomedical Technology (AREA)
• Pulmonology (AREA)
• Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
• One-Way And Automatic Clutches, And Combinations Of Different Clutches (AREA)
• Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)

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• 2019
  • 2019-02-27 US US16/287,913 patent/US11441611B2/en active Active
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