WO2024061863A1

WO2024061863A1 - Reservoir air hose

Info

Publication number: WO2024061863A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/075725
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Prudden, Jr.
Original assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
Priority date: 2022-09-20
Filing date: 2023-09-19
Publication date: 2024-03-28

Abstract

A reservoir air hose includes a first flexible tube; an adapter and a quick release assembly. The adapter is attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a reservoir. The quick release assembly is attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff. The quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes.

Description

RESERVOIR AIR HOSE

BACKGROUND

[0001] Blood pressure measurement systems typically include a reservoir connected via one or more air hoses to a cuff and to a monitor. Modern cuffs are sometimes standardized to include limited sets of specific sizes. Such cuffs may be detachable from and attachable to the reservoir. For example, the ShellCuff is also known as the Advanced Monitoring Cuff and is provided in four sizes including Adult, Adult Small, Adult Large and Adult Large Short.

[0002] An accessory is provided for the two smaller ShellCuff sizes of Adult and Adult Small due to limitations in the pump that supplies air. The accessory includes a Reservoir, two hoses, a male fitting for connecting to the monitor on one hose and a quick release assembly attached to the other hose. The quick release assembly of the accessory allows for a quick and easy attachment to the Adult and Adult Small ShellCuffs but also to the Adult Large and Adult Large Short. In other words, the accessory is compatible with the Adult Large and Adult Large Short ShellCuffs, but is intended for use only with the Adult and Adult Small ShellCuffs. As a result, a user may inadvertently use the Adult Large and Adult Large Short ShellCuffs with the accessory, though the accessory is specifically provided to address limitations in the pump that supplies air. Since the pump cannot be slowed sufficiently to fill the Adult and Adult Small at an appropriate rate, a reservoir is necessary. However, if the reservoir is used, whether intentionally or inadvertently, with the Adult Large or Adult Large Short sizes, the cuffs fill at a slower rate than required.

SUMMARY

[0003] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a reservoir air hose includes a first flexible tube; an adapter and a quick release assembly. The adapter is attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a reservoir. The quick release assembly is attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff. The quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes. [0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a reservoir system includes a reservoir, a first reservoir air hose, and a second reservoir air hose. The first reservoir air hose includes a first flexible tube, a first adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to the reservoir, and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff. The quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes. The second reservoir air hose includes a second flexible tube connected to the reservoir and a second adapter configured to connect to a blood pressure monitor.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a blood pressure measurement system includes a reservoir; a first reservoir air hose, a second reservoir air hose, and a monitor. The first reservoir air hose includes a first flexible tube, a first adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to the reservoir, and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff. The quick release assembly is configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the first reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes. The second reservoir air hose includes a second flexible tube connected to the reservoir and a second adapter configured to connect to a blood pressure monitor. The monitor displays blood pressure readings.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an accessory for a blood pressure cuff includes a barb fitting. The barb fitting connects to first blood pressure cuffs and enables connection of the first blood pressure cuffs to a reservoir air hose. Second blood pressure cuffs which are not connected to the barb fitting are prevented from connecting to the reservoir air hose. The reservoir air hose includes a first flexible tube; an adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a reservoir; and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff. The quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The example embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawing figures. It is emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion. Wherever applicable and practical, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a method for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] In the following detailed description, for the purposes of explanation and not limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments consistent with the present disclosure that depart from specific details disclosed herein remain within the scope of the appended claims. Descriptions of known systems, devices, materials, methods of operation and methods of manufacture may be omitted so as to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nonetheless, systems, devices, materials and methods that are within the purview of one of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the present teachings and may be used in accordance with the representative embodiments. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Definitions and explanations for terms herein are in addition to the technical and scientific meanings of the terms as commonly understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0015] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0016] As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms of terms ‘a’, ‘an’ and ‘the’ are intended to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the terms "comprises", and/or "comprising," and/or similar terms when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0017] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to”, “coupled to”, or “adjacent to” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or intervening elements or components may be present. That is, these and similar terms encompass cases where one or more intermediate elements or components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is said to be “directly connected” to another element or component, this encompasses only cases where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening elements or components.

[0018] The present disclosure, through one or more of its various aspects, embodiments and/or specific features or sub-components, is thus intended to bring out one or more of the advantages as specifically noted below.

[0019] As described herein, a quick release assembly for a reservoir air hose may be configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes. In the context of ShellCuffs, the quick release assembly may be configured to allow only the two smaller sizes of ShellCuffs to attach, and may be configured not to allow the two larger sizes of ShellCuffs to attach. The combination of a modified connector and a modified quick release assembly may assist in preventing use of equipment such as some larger sizes of cuffs which are not intended for use with other equipment such as legacy adapters with the legacy quick release assembly.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0021] The system 100 in FIG. 1 includes a cuff system 100A, a reservoir system 100B, a display 170, and a controller 180. Although the controller 180 is shown separate from the display 170, in some embodiments the controller 180 may be integrated with and provided as part of the display 170, such as when the display 170 is provided as a monitor system that includes the pump and a screen which displays information. The cuff system 100A includes a cuff 110, an air hose 115 and a connector 120. The reservoir system 100B includes a quick release assembly 130, a first hose 140, an adapter 142, a reservoir 150 and a second hose 160. The cuff system 100A and the reservoir system 100B may be attached and detached from one another via the connector 120 and the quick release assembly 130, and thus include components that may be provided together at one time and that may be distributed at another time.

[0022] The cuff 110 is a blood pressure measurement cuff, and is configured to selectively inflate and deflate under the control of the system 100. The cuff 110 may be configured to wrap around the upper arm of a user before being inflated. Examples of the cuff 110 in FIG. 1 may include the Adult ShellCuff and the Adult Small ShellCuff, though other blood pressure measurement cuffs with limited sets of sizes may also be used in the system 100 consistent with the teachings herein.

[0023] The air hose 115 provides air to the cuff 110 and is connected with the connector 120. The connection between the air hose 115 and the connector 120 may be permanent or semipermanent. The connection between the air hose 115 and the cuff 110 may also be permanent or semi-permanent. In other words, the cuff 110, the air hose 115 and the connector 120 may be provided as a unit, such as the Adult or Adult Small ShellCuffs.

[0024] The connector 120 is configured to connect with the quick release assembly 130. For example, the connector 120may have an engager portion configured to insert into and engage with an inner body of the quick release assembly 130, and a stopper configured to limit the insertion of the engager into the quick release assembly 130. Examples of the connector 120 and/or the quick release assembly 130 are shown in and described with respect to FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.The connector 120 may be plastic, reusable, and configured to fit on or to a first subset of blood pressure cuffs such as the Adult size and Small Adult size ShellCuffs, and not on or to a second subset of other blood pressure cuffs.

[0025] In some embodiments, the connector 120 may be provided with a barb fitting for a blood pressure cuff such as for ShellCuffs of the Adult or Adult Small size. The barb fitting may be plastic and may be configured to allow connection of specific sizes of the blood pressure cuffs to the quick release assembly 130 and prevent connection of other sizes of the blood pressure cuffs to the quick release assembly 130. In the context of the ShellCuffs, the barb fitting may be configured to enable connection of the Adult and Adult Small ShellCuffs, and prevent connection of the Adult Large and Adult Large Short ShellCuffs. Geometry in the quick release assembly 130 may only allow the plastic barb fittings for the connectors for the Adult and Adult Small size ShellCuffs to attach but not the standard plastic barb fittings otherwise used for pressure cuffs such as the Adult Large and Adult Large Short ShellCuffs. Additionally, the plastic barb fitting of the connector 120 may not connect to standard air hoses that use a standard quick release assembly used for other types of blood pressure cuff systems.

[0026] The barb fitting complies with a small bore connector for limb inflation standard. As an example, the small bore connector for limb inflation standard may be IEC 80369-5. IEC 80369-5 is for small-bore connectors for liquids and gases in healthcare applications, with part 5 being specific to connectors for limb cuff inflation applications. The standards may be purchased on the internet at iso.org/standard/50733.html

[0027] The first hose 140 provides air from the reservoir 150 via the adapter 142, and is connected with the quick release assembly 130.The connection between the first hose 140 and the adapter 142, and between the adapter 142 and the reservoir 150, may be permanent or semi permanent. The connection between the first hose 140 and the quick release assembly 130 may also be permanent or semi-permanent. In other words, the first hose 140, the adapter 142, the reservoir 150 and the second hose 160 may be provided as a unit.

[0028] Insofar as the first hose 140, the adapter 142 and the quick release assembly 130 may be provided as a unit, the unit may be termed a “reservoir air hose”. As a reservoir air hose, the first hose 140 may comprise a first flexible tube. The adapter 142 may be attached to the first hose 140 as the first flexible tube, and may be configured to connect the first hose 140 of the reservoir air hose to the reservoir 150. The quick release assembly 130 may be attached to the first hose 140 as the first flexible tube, and may be configured to connect the reservoir air hose indirectly to the cuff 110 via the connector 120. The quick release assembly 130 is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes. The first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes may be, for example, ShellCuffs of the Adult size and the Adult Small size. The second blood pressure cuffs of the second subset of sizes may be, for example, ShellCuffs of the Adult Large size and Adult Large Short size. The first blood pressure cuffs may be connected to a barb fitting which enables connection to the quick release assembly 130 and which prevents connection to reservoir air hoses that use a different quick release assembly.

[0029] The reservoir 150 controls the flow of air in the system 100 so as to provide air to inflate the cuff 110 and so as to allow evacuation of pressurized air from the cuff 110. The reservoir 150 may be connected to the second hose 160. The reservoir 150 is used to provide air for a subset of cuff sizes such as the Adult and Adult Small sizes insofar as the pump may not be capable of slowing sufficiently to fill the Adult and Adult Small at an appropriate rate.

[0030] The second hose 160 may be a second flexible tube which is configured to provide air from a tank (not shown). Alternatively, the second hose 160 may alternatively be an external casing for one or more control wires from the display 170 and/or the controller 180 so as to control the blood pressure measurement process by the system 100. The second hose 160 may include a male adapter that is configured to connect with the display 170.

[0031] The display 170 is a blood pressure monitor, and may be an interactive display that provides data and instructions to an operator. The display 170 may be a touch display, or may be provided along with dedicated input interfaces such as buttons, switches and keys. The display 170 may be integrated with the controller 180, such as in a mobile workstation or fixed workstation, or may be provided separately from the controller 180. For example, the display 170 may be connected to the controller 180 via a local wired interface. The display 170 may include a video display unit, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid-state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT), for example.

[0032] The controller 180 is provided with at least a memory 181 that stores instructions and a processor 182 that executes the instructions. The controller 180 may control the system 100. The controller 180 may include more elements than depicted in FIG. 1. The controller 180 may control the blood pressure measurement processes performed by the system 100. The controller 180 may include interfaces such as a first interface, a second interface, a third interface, and a fourth interface. One or more of the interfaces may include user interfaces such as buttons, knobs, keys, a mouse, or other elements that users can use to interact with the controller 180 such as to enter instructions and receive output. One or more of the interfaces may allow an operator to initiate a blood pressure measurement by the system 100.

[0033] The memory 181 communicates with the processor 182, such as via a bus (not shown), and may be directly accessible to the processor 182. The memory 181 may be considered a representative example of a memory of the controller 180, and stores instructions used to implement some aspects of methods and processes described herein. For example, instructions in the memory 181 may be used to initiate blood pressure measurements, may be used to control generation of information displayed on the display 170, and may be used to detect and interpret instructions from the various interfaces of the system 100.

[0034] Memories described herein are tangible storage mediums for storing data and executable software instructions and are non-transitory during the time software instructions are stored therein. As used herein, the term “non-transitory” is to be interpreted not as an eternal characteristic of a state, but as a characteristic of a state that will last for a period. The term “non- transitory” specifically disavows fleeting characteristics such as characteristics of a carrier wave or signal or other forms that exist only transitorily in any place at any time. The memory 181 is an article of manufacture and/or machine component. The memory 181 is a computer-readable medium from which data and executable software instructions can be read by the processor 182. The memory 181 may be implemented as one or more of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory, electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, tape, compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), floppy disk, blu-ray disk, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. The memories may be volatile or non-volatile, secure and/or encrypted, unsecure and/or unencrypted. [0035] The processor 182 may be considered a representative example of a processor of a controller 180 and executes instructions to implement some aspects of methods and processes described herein. The processor 182 is tangible and non-transitory. As used herein, the term “non-transitory” is to be interpreted not as an eternal characteristic of a state, but as a characteristic of a state that will last for a period. The term “non-transitory” specifically disavows fleeting characteristics such as characteristics of a carrier wave or signal or other forms that exist only transitorily in any place at any time. The processor 182 is an article of manufacture and/or a machine component. The processor 182 may be a general-purpose processor or may be part of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 182 may also be a microprocessor, a microcomputer, a processor chip, a controller, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a state machine, or a programmable logic device. The processor 182 may also be a logical circuit, including a programmable gate array (PGA), such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or another type of circuit that includes discrete gate and/or transistor logic. The processor 182 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. Additionally, any processor described herein may include multiple processors, parallel processors, or both. Multiple processors may be included in, or coupled to, a single device or multiple devices.

[0036] The memory 181 may be a computer-readable medium in which one or more sets of software instructions (software) are embedded. The sets of software instructions may be read from the computer-readable medium to be executed by the processor 182. Further, the software instructions, when executed by the processor 182, perform one or more steps of the methods and processes as described herein. In an embodiment, the software instructions reside all or in part within the memory 181 and/or the processor 182 during execution. Further, the computer- readable medium may include software instructions or receive and execute software instructions responsive to a propagated signal, so that a device connected to a network communicates voice, video or data over the network. The software instructions may be transmitted or received over the network via a network interface device.

[0037] As set forth above, the system 100 includes a connector 120 and a quick release assembly 130 which are configured to connect with each other. The connector 120 is configured to not connect with other quick release assemblies. The quick release assembly 130 is configured to not connect with other connectors.

[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0039] The system 200 in FIG. 2 includes a connector 220 and a quick release assembly 230. The connector 220 includes the engager 221 and the stopper 222. The quick release assembly 230 includes an inner body 231, an outer sleeve 232, a first part 233A of an O-ring, a second part 233B of the O-ring, a seating bolt 234 and a large ball 235. The first part 233A and the second part 233B are shown as a cross section of the O-ring but may be integrated as one part. The O- ring is a circular O-ring with a circular cross section. The O-ring serves as the sealing mechanism around the connector 120 to prevent air from leaking from the air source of the quick release assembly 130. The large ball 235 is representative of three spherical balls used for engaging the connector 120 to the quick release assembly 130.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the connector 220 is configured to be partially inserted into the quick release assembly 230 until the stopper 222 abuts against the inner body 231 of the quick release assembly. The engager 221 is the portion of the connector 220 that is partially inserted into the quick release assembly 230. The engager 221 has notches on a peripheral surface, and the notches engage with the first part 233A and the second part 233B to detachably attach the engager 221 and thus the connector 220 to the quick release assembly 230. As shown immediately to the left of the first part 233A, a large ball 235 may also engage with another notch on the engager 221. Additionally, the engager 221 may contact the seating bolt 234. The number of balls and matching notches is not limited to any particular number such as two or three. Additionally, though the engaging members are each termed to be a “ball” for the description herein, such engaging members do not strictly have to be spherical or even curved in order to serve the purpose of engaging the connector 220 and the quick release assembly 230. [0041] The quick release assembly 230 may have the inner body 231 as a flange with a length that prevents connection to a second subset of blood pressure cuffs. For example, if current quick release assemblies have inner bodies with a width of 1 millimeter to fit to current connectors, the quick release assembly 230 may be provided with a longer inner body 231 as a flange, and the longer inner body 231 may only fit connectors with the dimension of the connector 220. Additionally, the quick release assembly 230 may have a longer outer sleeve 232 than current quick release assemblies, and a modified seating bolt 234 to accommodate the longer engaging mechanisms of the connector 220.

[0042] The quick release assembly 230 may be color coded, so as to match color coding of specific cuff sizes such as the ShellCuff Adult size and Adult Small size. The quick release assembly 230 may prevent attachment of any existing connectors including current plastic male fittings or metal male fittings, so that only connectors of the type of the connector 220 and configured with dimensions of the connector 220 may be allowed to attach to the quick release assembly 230.

[0043] The connector 220 may meet the ‘Small Boreconnector standard for limb inflation” standard of IEC 80369-5, so as to avoid the risk of connecting to quick release assemblies or any other engagement mechanisms of any other devices used on the human body. Other devices which may be unable to connect with the connector 220 may include intravascular devices, neuraxial devices, enteral devices, and any cuff-type devices except specific cuffs in the first subset such as ShellCuffs of the Adult size and the Adult Small size. The connector 220 may be unable to connect with existing air hose assemblies having existing quick release assemblies, such as existing quick release assemblies with the smaller inner bodies and shorter outer sleeves. [0044] This design of the system 200 in FIG. 2 results in a configuration that allows only Adult and Adult Small ShellCuffs with the connector 220 modified with the plastic barb fitting to attach to the quick release assembly 230. The plastic barb fitting on the connector 220 for these two smallest ShellCuffs may also prevent connection with a standard (legacy) air hose quick release assembly.

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0046] The system 300 in FIG. 3 includes a quick release assembly 330. In FIG. 3, the quick release assembly 330 corresponds to the quick release assembly 230 in FIG. 2 and the quick release assembly 130 in FIG. 1. However, a legacy connector is stopped by stoppers before the engagement members of the quick release assembly 330 may engage with the legacy connector. In other words, a mismatch between a legacy connector and the quick release assembly 330 prevents the legacy connector from engaging with the quick release assembly 330. The inner body 331 of the quick release assembly 330 may be a flange with a length that is longer than the inner bodies of legacy quick release assemblies and that prevents connection of the quick release assembly 330 to connectors for the second subset of blood pressure cuffs. As a result, the quick release assembly 330 may be unable to engage with conventional connectors due to the longer length of the inner body 331. Compatible connectors may correspond to the ShellCuffs of the Adult size and the Adult Small size, and incompatible legacy connectors may correspond to ShellCuffs of the Adult Large size and of the Adult Large Short size.

[0047] FIG. 4 illustrates another system for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0048] The system in FIG. 4 includes the connector 42O.The connector 420 includes the engager 421. As shown, the engager 421 is too long for the legacy quick release assembly (QRA) in FIG. 4. The stopper for the connector 420 does not abut the inner body of the legacy quick release assembly, and the large ball labelled as Mismatch #1 does not engage with the corresponding notch in the legacy quick release assembly. Similarly, the seating bolt of the legacy quick release assembly is mismatched where labelled as Mismatch #2. Mismatch #2 is accomplished by the compression spring compressing to become solid such that the seating bolt cannot be translated further to allow the connector 420 from engaging with the retaining balls.

[0049] In FIG. 4, the connector 420 corresponds to the connector 220 in FIG. 2 and the connector 120 in FIG. 1. However, the connector 420 does not fit into the legacy quick release assembly in FIG. 4 so the engagement members of the legacy quick release assembly do not engage with the connector 420. In other words, a mismatch between the legacy quick release assembly and the connector 420 prevents the connector 420 from engaging with the legacy quick release assembly. The connector 420 may correspond to connectors for ShellCuffs of the Adult size and the Adult Small size, and may be incompatible with legacy quick release assemblies due to the longer engager 421.For example, The connector 420 may be unable to engage conventional quick release assemblies due to the longer length of the engager 421 of the connector 420.

[0050] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0051] In FIG. 5, one or more connector(s) are attached to one or more ShellCuffs of two of four possible sizes at S510. The connector(s) may be for ShellCuffs of the Adult size and the Adult Small size. However, the first subset of compatible connectors is not limited to two, and the second subset of incompatible connectors is not limited to two either.

[0052] At S520, a reservoir system is provided with a quick release assembly that is specific to the two of the four sizes. In other words, the reservoir assembly is configured to engage with connector for the two of the four sizes, and to not engage with connectors for the other two of the four sizes. The reservoir system may be provided with the quick release assembly 130 in FIG. 1, the quick release assembly 230 in FIG. 2, and the quick release assembly 330 in FIG. 3.

[0053] At S520, the method of FIG. 5 includes attempting to attach a “random” ShellCuff to the reservoir system with the quick release assembly specific to ShellCuffs of the two of the four sizes. The random ShellCuff may be an arbitrary ShellCuff of an unknown size.

[0054] At S540, the method diverges based on whether the “random” ShellCuff is matched to the reservoir system with the quick release assembly specific to ShellCuffs of the two of the four sizes. Specifically, the method diverges on whether the connector for the “random” ShellCuff is a connector for the ShellCuffs of the two smallest sizes or is a connector for the ShellCuffs of the two largest sizes.

[0055] If there is no match (S540 = No), at S550 the attempt to engage the connector with the quick release assembly is rejected. All but specific matching products may be rejected at S550. If there is a match (S540 = Yes), at S555 the connector engages with the quick release assembly. [0056] In the method of FIG. 5, only connectors for a first subset of cuffs match with the quick release assemblies of accessories for the first subset of cuffs. Only connectors for the second subset of cuffs match with the quick release assemblies of accessories for the second subset of cuffs. The lengthened engagers, inner bodies, and outer sleeves, along with the modified seating bolt, prevent unintentional attachments of incompatible connectors and quick release assemblies. [0057] FIG. 6 illustrates a method for a reservoir air hose, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0058] At S610, a connector is attached to ShellCuffs of two of four sizes.

[0059] At S620, a reservoir system with a quick release assembly not specific to the ShellCuffs of the two of four sizes is provided.

[0060] At S630, an attempt to attach a “random” ShellCuff to the reservoir system with a quick release assembly not specific to the ShellCuffs of the two of the four sizes is attempted.

[0061] At S640, the method diverges based on whether the “random” ShellCuff is matched to the reservoir system with the quick release assembly not specific to the ShellCuffs of the two of the four sizes.

[0062] If there is no match (S640 = No), at S650 the attempt to engage the connector with the quick release assembly is rejected. If there is a match (S640 = Yes), at S655 the connector engages with the quick release assembly.

[0063] In the method of FIG. 6, only connectors for a first subset of cuffs match with the quick release assemblies of accessories for the first subset of cuffs. Only connectors for the second subset of cuffs match with the quick release assemblies of accessories for the second subset of cuffs. The lengthened engagers, inner bodies, and outer sleeves, along with the modified seating bolt, prevent unintentional attachments of incompatible connectors and quick release assemblies. [0064] As set forth above, in the method of FIG. 5, the matching at S540 prevents unmodified ShellCuffs not of the two of four sizes from engaging with the reservoir system with the quick release assembly specific to the two of four sizes. In the method of FIG. 6, the matching at S640 prevents ShellCuffs of the two of the four sizes from engaging with the reservoir system with the quick release assembly not specific to the two of the four sizes.

[0065] In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, some aspects of methods described herein may be implemented using a hardware computer system that executes software programs.

[0066] Accordingly, reservoir air hose enables prevention of connecting incompatible connectors and quick release assemblies. The use of lengthened components may prevent unintentional attachment of components not intended for use with one another as is the case with specific sizes of blood pressure measurement cuffs as described herein.

[0067] Although reservoir air hose has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words that have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of reservoir air hose in its aspects. Although reservoir air hose has been described with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, reservoir air hose is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed; rather reservoir air hose extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses such as are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0068] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of the disclosure described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0069] One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

[0070] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

[0071] The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in the present disclosure. As such, the above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

CLAIMS: I claim:

1. A reservoir air hose, comprising: a first flexible tube; an adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a reservoir; and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff, wherein the quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes.

2. The reservoir air hose of claim 1 , wherein the first blood pressure cuffs are connected to a barb fitting which enables connection to the quick release assembly and which prevents connection to reservoir air hoses that use a different quick release assembly.

3. The reservoir air hose of claim 1, wherein the first blood pressure cuffs and the second blood pressure cuffs comprise ShellCuffs.

4. The reservoir air hose of claim 1 , wherein the reservoir is connected to a second flexible tube which is also configured to connect to a blood pressure monitor via a male adapter connected to the second flexible tube.

5. The reservoir air hose of claim 1, wherein the quick release assembly comprises a flange with a length that prevents connection of the reservoir air hose to the second blood pressure cuffs.

6. The reservoir air hose of claim 2, wherein the barb fitting complies with a small bore connector for limb inflation standard.

7. The reservoir air hose of claim 6, wherein the small bore connector for limb inflation standard comprises IEC 80369-5.

8. A reservoir system, comprising: a reservoir; a first reservoir air hose comprising a first flexible tube, a first adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to the reservoir, and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff, wherein the quick release assembly is configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the first reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes; and a second reservoir air hose comprising a second flexible tube connected to the reservoir and a second adapter configured to connect to a blood pressure monitor.

9. The reservoir system of claim 8, wherein the first blood pressure cuffs are connected to a barb fitting which enables connection to the quick release assembly and which prevents connection to reservoir air hoses that use a different quick release assembly.

10. The reservoir system of claim 8, wherein the first blood pressure cuffs and the second blood pressure cuffs comprise ShellCuffs.

11. The reservoir system of claim 8, wherein the quick release assembly comprises a flange with a length that prevents connection of the first reservoir air hose to the second blood pressure cuffs.

12. The reservoir system of claim 9, wherein the barb fitting complies with a small bore connector for limb inflation standard.

13. The reservoir system of claim 12, wherein the small bore connector for limb inflation standard comprises IEC 80369-5.

14. A blood pressure measurement system, comprising: a reservoir; a first reservoir air hose comprising a first flexible tube, a first adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to the reservoir, and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff, wherein the quick release assembly is configured to connect the first reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the first reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes; a second reservoir air hose comprising a second flexible tube connected to the reservoir and a second adapter configured to connect to a blood pressure monitor; and a monitor which displays blood pressure readings.

15. The blood pressure measurement system of claim 14, further comprising: a controller with a memory that stores instructions and a processor that executes the instructions, wherein the controller is configured to initiate blood pressure measurements.

16. An accessory for a blood pressure cuff, comprising: a barb fitting which connects to first blood pressure cuffs and enables connection of the first blood pressure cuffs to a reservoir air hose, wherein second blood pressure cuffs which are not connected to the barb fitting are prevented from connecting to the reservoir air hose, and wherein the reservoir air hose comprises a first flexible tube; an adapter attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a reservoir; and a quick release assembly attached to the first flexible tube and configured to connect the reservoir air hose to a blood pressure cuff, wherein the quick release assembly is configured to connect the reservoir air hose to first blood pressure cuffs of a first subset of sizes and to prevent connection of the reservoir air hose to second blood pressure cuffs of a second subset of sizes distinct from the first subset of sizes.