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Publication Number
US-12636481-B2
Publication Date
2026-05-26
Expiration Date
Abstract
An adapter for connecting a first connector to a second connector can include a proximal portion configured to linearly engage the first connector with a snap-fit engagement. The adapter can include a distal portion configured to rotationally engage the second connector. Rotation of the adapter relative to the second connector can advance a male luer of the first connector into substantially sealing engagement with a female luer on the second connector. The adapter can be configured to displace a collar on the first connector when coupled to the first connector. The second connector can include a proximal portion that is configured to engage the first connector, such as with a snap-fit engagement.
Core Innovation
The invention provides methods and an adapter for coupling a first medical connector to a second medical connector. In one arrangement, protrusions on the adapter engage a step on a connector projection, while threading between the adapter and the other connector advances the male and female luers into sealing engagement. The claims describe two connector arrangements, with the stepped projection and male luer disposed on either the first connector or the second connector.
The disclosure addresses incomplete coupling and leakage associated with interference from collar threading of the medical connector. The adapter displaces the collar so that its threads do not interfere with coupling, allowing the male and female luers to sealingly engage. Additional disclosed features include an adapter-to-projection seal, an annular flange, release arms, a shroud, sleeve components, and breakable elements that permit a free-spin configuration.
Claims Coverage
The claims include two independent claims, claims 1 and 12, reciting two inventive features for coupling medical connectors through an adapter.
Adapter coupling to a stepped projection and threaded connector
Claim 1 recites advancing the adapter axially until inward-extending protrusions engage a step on the first medical connector projection, and rotating the second medical connector so external threading engages adapter internal threading, causing the male luer to sealingly engage the female luer.
Adapter coupling to a threaded connector and stepped projection
Claim 12 recites engaging adapter distal internal threading with external threading of the first medical connector, and advancing the adapter axially until protrusions engage a step on the second medical connector projection, causing the male luer to sealingly engage the female luer.
The independent claims cover two connector arrangements using an adapter: one secures the adapter to the stepped projection before threaded attachment of the second connector, while the other engages adapter threading with the first connector before securing to the second connector stepped projection. Both arrangements establish sealing engagement between the male and female luers.
Stated Advantages
The adapter can displace the first connector's collar so its threads do not interfere with coupling, addressing incomplete coupling and leakage.
Documented Applications
Coupling first and second medical connectors through an adapter to establish sealing engagement between their male and female luers.
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