Check valve

Abstract

A check valve for use in a fluid pathway. The check valve may have a diaphragm and a plurality of supports extending from the diaphragm. The check valve and supports have a line of symmetry, and deformation of the check valve as it moves from a closed position to an opened position can be generally along the line of symmetry.

Claims

1. A medical check valve for use in a medical device to provide one-way fluid flow between a first fluid location and a second fluid location, said check valve comprising: a flexible diaphragm comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side wall between the top surface and the bottom surface; a first support member extending from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm and a second support member extending from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm, the first support member and second support member positioned to define a line of symmetry that bisects the bottom surface without passing through the first support member or the second support member; wherein the flexible diaphragm has a first position in which the top surface is generally planar and is configured to seal against a fluid opening and a second position in which a portion of the diaphragm is curved between the first and second support members to form a concavity in the top surface about the line of symmetry and is configured to be displaced from the fluid opening.

2. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein the line of symmetry is the only line of symmetry that bisects the bottom surface without passing through the first support member or the second support member.

3. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein the flexible diaphragm is a disc.

4. The medical check valve of claim 3, wherein the first and second support members are positioned 180 degrees apart about the disc.

5. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein the flexible diaphragm is nonperforate.

6. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein the flexible diaphragm, the first support member, and the second support member are integrally formed.

7. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein a net pressure of less than 3 psi on the top surface of the flexible diaphragm is sufficient to move the diaphragm from the first position to the second position.

8. The medical check valve of claim 7, wherein a net pressure of less than 1 psi on the top surface of the flexible diaphragm is sufficient to move the diaphragm from the first position to the second position.

9. The medical check valve of claim 8, wherein a positive net pressure on the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm is needed to maintain the flexible diaphragm in the first position.

10. The medical check valve of claim 1, wherein no support members other than the first and second support members extend from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm.

11. A medical manifold comprising: a fluid channel; a port in fluid communication with said fluid channel, wherein the port is configured to be connected to a medical connector; and a check valve positioned in said port and comprising: a flexible diaphragm comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side wall between the top surface and the bottom surface; and a first support member extending from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm and a second support member extending from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm, the first support member and second support member positioned to define a line of symmetry that bisects the bottom surface without passing through the first support member or the second support member; wherein the flexible diaphragm has a first position in which the top surface is generally planar and is configured to seal against a fluid opening in fluid communication with the medical connector when the medical connector is connected to the port and a second position in which the top surface of the diaphragm is curved around the line of symmetry and is configured to be displaced from the fluid opening; and wherein the first and second support members remain in generally the same location in said port when the flexible diaphragm is in the first and second positions.

12. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein the line of symmetry is the only line of symmetry that bisects the bottom surface without passing through the first support member or the second support member.

13. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein the flexible diaphragm is a disc.

14. The medical manifold of claim 13, wherein the first and second support members are positioned 130 degrees apart about the disc.

15. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein the flexible diaphragm is nonperforated.

16. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein the flexible diaphragm, the first support member, and the second support member are integrally formed.

17. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein a net pressure of less than 3 psi on the top surface of the flexible diaphragm is sufficient to move the diaphragm from the first position to the second position.

18. The medical manifold of claim 17, wherein a net pressure of less than 1 psi on the top surface of the flexible diaphragm is sufficient to move the diaphragm from the first position to the second position.

19. The medical manifold of claim 18, wherein a positive net pressure on the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm is needed to maintain the flexible diaphragm in the first position.

20. The medical manifold of claim 11, wherein no support members other than the first and second support members extend from the bottom surface of the flexible diaphragm.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a manifold.

(2) FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold with a modified projection attachment.

(3) FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold component.

(4) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a manifold.

(5) FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold with a modified projection attachment.

(6) FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a manifold component.

(7) FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 1.

(8) FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 1A.

(9) FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 1B.

(10) FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 2.

(11) FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 2A.

(12) FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 2B.

(13) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a port of a manifold.

(14) FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a port of a manifold.

(15) FIG. 6 is a top view of the port of FIG. 5.

(16) FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of a check valve.

(17) FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the check valve of FIG. 7.

(18) FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the check valve of FIG. 8.

(19) FIG. 10 is a side view of the check valve of FIG. 9.

(20) FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a port of a manifold with a check valve.

(21) FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a port of a manifold with an attached medical connector, with a check valve not shown.

(22) FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a port of a manifold with an attached medical connector and a check valve in a closed position.

(23) FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 12A with the check valve in an open position.

(24) FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a port of a manifold with an attached medical connector and a check valve in a closed position.

(25) FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 13A with the check valve in an open position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(26) With reference to the attached figures, certain embodiments and examples of fluid flow systems, medical connectors, and valves will now be described. Various embodiments of check valves described herein are with reference to a manifold or extension set, but they are not so limited. In some aspects, they can be applied to any system to provide for one-way flow between a medical connector and a fluid flow line, such as in, for example, IV sets, stopcocks or other branched connectors including y-site connectors, and other systems. As used herein, the term “fluid” refers to either gases or liquids.

(27) FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a manifold 10 that can be used to provide access to a fluid flow path. The manifold can include a manifold housing 12 that can include a first port 20 and a second port 30. In some embodiments, the housing can be one integral piece, and in some embodiments it can include multiple pieces such that the manifold includes first and second ports connected by a fluid path, but the ports are connected by separately formed units, for example tubes, to the housing. In some embodiments, multiple housings may be connected between the first and second ports. Preferably, even when connected by flexible joints, the manifold in a resting position defines a generally linear fluid path between the first and second ports with one or more ports branching off that path. In some embodiments, those one or more ports branch off at about 90 degrees from the flow path between the first and second ports. The manifold can be inserted into a fluid flow line with the first port 20 configured to attach to one end of the line and the second port 30 configured to attach to a second end of the line. The ports can be configured to accommodate any standard medical connector or implement, and can be adapted to conform with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) or other applicable standards. In some embodiments, different ports can also be configured to have nonstandard connections.

(28) In some embodiments, a first port 20 can have a threaded end 22 that can be used to connect to a threaded medical connector. In some embodiments, a second port 30 can have a male luer lock 32, including a tapered cannula 34 (visible in FIGS. 3 and 4).

(29) In some embodiments, the manifold 10 can include a plurality of access ports 40, described and illustrated in more detail below. The access ports can be adapted to connect or attach to a variety of types of medical connectors 50. In some embodiments, as illustrated, a medical connector 50 can be a needleless connector. In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold includes six medical connectors 50, three on a first side of the manifold and three on a second side of the manifold.

(30) In various embodiments, a manifold can have varying numbers of access ports and medical connectors. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a manifold 10′″ that has three access ports and medical connectors 50 on one side of the manifold. Housing 12′″ includes joints 16′″ and can include an extended portion or fin 13 that may be positioned on the side opposite the medical connectors. Fin 13′″ can be provided to add stability to the manifold 10′″ and may be configured to facilitate the handling or control by a nurse or other user of the manifold 10′″ during use or to attach the manifold 10′ to a convenient resting place. FIG. 2A shows an alternative manifold 10″″ also including three access ports and medical connectors 50′ on one side. Housing 12″″ includes joints 16″″ and can include an extended portion or fin 13″″ that may be positioned on the side opposite the medical connectors. Fin 13″″ can be provided to add stability to the manifold 10″″ and may be configured to facilitate the handling or control by a nurse or other user of the manifold 10″″ during use or to attach the manifold 10″″ to a convenient resting place. As shown, joints 16′″ may include shallow curved portions as compared to the curved portions on joints 16′″ shown in FIG. 2. Curved portions and other structures can be used to change the strength of the housing and to provide a convenient place to hold the manifold.

(31) Other combinations of ports are also possible. For example, FIG. 1B shows a manifold 10″ including two double housings 12″. FIG. 2B shows a manifold 10′″″ including two single housings 12′″″. As discussed above, a single manifold may include various combinations of such housings as desired.

(32) Embodiments of the invention may provide various ways to connect medical connectors to the housing ports, as discussed in greater detail below. For example, FIG. 1A shows a six port manifold 10′ with alternative ports 40′ and modified connectors 50′.

(33) As shown, in some embodiments various modifications can be made to the connecting portions or joints 16 between the ports. For example, FIG. 1 shows a first version of the joints 16 while FIG. 1A shows an alternative joint 16′ that includes shallow arched or curved portions. As shown in FIG. 1B, in some embodiments, rather than having a single housing 12 (see, for example, FIGS. 1 and 1A), a manifold 10″ can have a plurality of housings 12″ joined by a flexible connecting portion, for example, tubing. Thus, for example, in some embodiments the joints 16″ of the manifolds that connect housings having medical connectors or pairs of medical connectors can be formed of tubing.

(34) FIG. 1B shows two double housings 12″. Various combinations are also possible. In some embodiments, a single housing 12″ with double ports may be provided and can be accessed by first and second ports 20′ and 30. First port 20′ may be similar to first port 20, except the rigid portion may be longer to accommodate the appropriate section of a medical implement, for example, a male luer. In some embodiments, the manifold may include 3 or more housings 12″ with corresponding medical connectors. Accordingly, the manifold can readily customized to provide an appropriate solution according to a user's needs. In addition, the manifold may include a combination of housings and ports, for example, a manifold may be provided with one or more double housing 12″ and one or more single housings 12′″″ (see FIG. 2B). Providing flexible joints allows the manifold to flex and adapt to the needs of the user. For example, a port may be rotated to ease access while minimizing the movement of other ports that may already be accessed by various medical devices. The flexible joints of the manifold are permanently attached, for example by bonding or glueing, to their respective housings and ports such that the manifold is a single unity.

(35) In some embodiments, various ports may remain connected or unconnected to one or more fluid sources and/or to a patient. For example, in some embodiments, one of the first port 20 and second port 30 can be connected to a patient, the other of the first port and second port may be sealed (such as with a medical connector 50 or a similar sealed access port) and unconnected to a fluid source, and one or more of the medical connectors 50 can be connected to a fluid source for the patient. In some embodiments, embodiments of the manifold can be used without a patient, for example, to combine one or more fluids into a single fluid receptacle (not shown). Accordingly, embodiments of the invention need not be used in direct connection with a patient.

(36) FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate cross-sectional views of the manifolds of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. As illustrated, medical connectors 50 can attach to the manifold at access ports 40. In some embodiments, a medical connector 50 can be a needleless medical connector that includes a connector body 60, a connector base 70, and a connector valve member 80 positioned at least partially within the connector body 60. Further details regarding needless medical connectors that can be used are found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/914,680, filed Dec. 11, 2013, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein and are included as an appendix to this application.

(37) In some embodiments, other types of medical connectors or of needleless medical connectors can be attached to the access ports 40 of the manifolds. These can include connectors configured to receive syringes and connectors of varying designs. In some embodiments, a manifold can include one or more of a first type of medical connector and one or more of a second type of medical connector. In some embodiments, a manifold can include more than two types of medical connectors. In some embodiments, first port 20 and/or second port 30 may include sealed access ports that are similar to those that may be used for access ports 40. Similarly, they can include check valves such as those described herein.

(38) FIGS. 3A and 4A illustrate cross-sectional views of the manifolds of FIGS. 1A and 2A, respectively. As illustrated, medical connectors 50′ can attach to the manifold at access ports 40′. Similar to medical connector 50 discussed above, medical connector 50′ can be a needleless medical connector that includes a connector body 60′, a connector base 70′, and a connector valve member 80′ positioned at least partially within the connector body 60′. In some embodiments, the manifolds 10′ and 10″″ shown in FIGS. 1A, 3A and 2A, 4A, respectively, can be modified to incorporate medical connectors 50.

(39) FIGS. 3B and 4B illustrate cross-sectional views components of the manifolds shown FIGS. 1B and 2B, respectively. As illustrated, medical connectors 50′ can attach to the manifold at access ports 40′. In some embodiments, the manifolds 10″ and 10′″″ shown in FIGS. 1B, 3B and 2B, 4B, respectively, can be modified to incorporate medical connectors 50.

(40) Medical connectors can be attached to the housings in a variety of ways. As shown in FIG. 4B for example, medical connector 50′ can incorporate features to facilitate sonic welding of the connector to the housing. In the illustrated embodiment, medical connector 50′ is attached to housing 12′″″ by way of connector base 70′. An inner recess in connector base 70′ is sized to receive projecting ring 44′ of access port 40′. Projecting ring can help stabilize medical connector 50′ on housing 12′″″.

(41) Preferably, the medical connectors 50 can each provide a fluid flow path from a medical implement attached to the medical connector, through the medical connector, into the access port 40 and through an access channel 42 into a main channel 14 of the manifold. In a similar fashion, medical connectors 50′ can each provide a fluid flow path from a medical implement attached to the medical connector, through the medical connector, and into the access port 40′ and through an access channel 42′ into a main channel 14 of the manifold. Preferably, the access port 40 or 40′ can include a one-way valve or check valve 100, which can allow fluid to flow through the medical connector into the main channel 14, but prevent fluid from flowing from the main channel back into the medical connector. Various embodiments of a check valve 100 are described in more detail below.

(42) FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an access port 40 of a manifold. The access port can include a recess 140 with an outer wall 142 and a base 144. The recess is preferably cylindrical such that the outer wall is cylindrical, although in some embodiments it can have other shapes. An access channel 42 can connect the base 144 to a main channel of a manifold or other device. A plurality of protrusions 150 can extend upward from the base of the recess 140. The protrusions can each include a central wall 152 that faces the access channel 42, side walls 154, and an outer wall 156. In some embodiments, the central walls 152 of the protrusions can be flush with a side wall 43 of the access channel 42. In some embodiments, the central walls 152 can define a continuous surface with a side wall 43 of the access channel.

(43) Preferably, the outer walls 156 of the protrusion do not extend all the way to the outer wall 142 of the access port recess 140, thereby defining an outer channel 48 between the protrusions and the outer wall 142. The protrusions can be spaced from each other to define transverse channels 46 between them that can connect the outer channel 48 to the access channel 42. In some embodiments, the access port 40 can also include an outer recess 44 that can be used to help seat a medical connector attached to the access port.

(44) FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an access port 40′ of a manifold which is similar in many respects to access port 40. The access port can include a recess 140′ with an outer wall 142′ and a base 144′. The recess is preferably cylindrical such that the outer wall is cylindrical, although in some embodiments it can have other shapes. An access channel 42′ can connect the base 144′ to a main channel of a manifold or other device. A plurality of protrusions 150′ can extend upward from the base of the recess 140′. The protrusions can each include a central wall 152′ that faces the access channel 42′ and side walls 154′. In some embodiments, the central walls 152′ of the protrusions can be recessed back from a side wall 43′ of the access channel 42′ as shown. The transition from the central walls 152′ to the side wall 43′ may be curved to facilitate fluid flow there through. In some embodiments, the central walls 152′ can define a continuous surface with a side wall 43′ of the access channel. As shown, the protrusions 150′ may be formed flush with the outer wall 142′ though in some embodiments, they may be off set from the wall and provide an outer fluid channel like channel 48 shown in FIG. 5. Access port 40′ may also include projecting ring 44′ that may be used to stabilize connector 50′ as shown.

(45) FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of an access port 40. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the access port includes four protrusions 150 that are spaced symmetrically about a center of the access channel 42. Preferably, side walls 154 of the protrusions are generally parallel to each other. In some embodiments, however, the side walls can angle toward each other as they get closer to the center of the access channel 42, and in some embodiments the side walls can diverge as they get closer toward the center of the access channel. In some embodiments, the access port 40 can include varying numbers of protrusions 50, such as 2, 3, 5, 6, or more protrusions. The protrusions can be symmetrically spaced about the access channel 42 or spaced about the access channel in other arrangements.

(46) In some embodiments, various components of the access port 40 can be centered around the access channel 42. In some embodiments, the access channel itself can be generally cylindrical and have a radius R.sub.1, as illustrated. In some embodiments the outer wall 142 of the access port recess 140 can have a radius R.sub.3 centered on the center of the access channel 42. Similarly, the outer walls 156 of the protrusions 150 can be curved and have a radius of curvature R2 centered on the center of the access channel 42. Similar radius of curvatures may be defined by access port 40′. In the illustrated embodiment, R2′ and R3′ of access port 40′ would be equal.

(47) When fluid flows through a medical connector attached to an access port 40, it will flow through the channels of the access port in order to reach a main channel of a fluid flow line. In various embodiments, the sizing of certain components of the access port can affect the size of the outer channel 48, transverse channels 46, and/or access channel 42, and therefore can affect the fluid flow characteristics of the access port 40.

(48) Thus, for example, in some embodiments the ratio of the radius R.sub.3 of the access port recess 140 to the radius R.sub.2 of the outer walls 156 of protrusions 150 may vary. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.2 can be between approximately 0.5 and 2.0. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.2 can be between approximately 0.8 and 1.7. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.0 and 1.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.1 and 1.3. These ratios are also applicable to access port 40′.

(49) Similarly, in some embodiments the ratio of the radius R.sub.3 of the access port recess 140 to the radius R.sub.1 of the access channel 42 may vary. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 2.0 and 3.3. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 2.3 and 3.0. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 2.5 and 2.8. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.3 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 2.6 and 2.7. These ratios are also applicable to access port 40′.

(50) Further, in some embodiments the ratio of the radius R.sub.2 of the outer walls 156 of protrusions 150 to the radius R.sub.1 of the access channel 42 may vary. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.2 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 1.5 and 2.9. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.2 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 1.8 and 2.6. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.2 to R.sub.1 can be between approximately 2.1 and 2.3. These ratios are also applicable to access port 40′.

(51) FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate perspective views of a check valve 100 that can be positioned within an access port 40 or 40′. FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom perspective view and FIG. 8 illustrates a top perspective view. The check valve preferably includes a diaphragm 110 having a bottom or lower surface 112, a side wall 114, and a top or upper surface 116. The diaphragm is preferably solid, although in some embodiments it can have perforations. A plurality of supports 120 can extend from the bottom or lower surface 112 of the diaphragm. The supports can be used to provide space for the diaphragm to flex from a closed to an open position, discussed in more detail below. Preferably, the diaphragm and supports are integrally formed (e.g., they may be molded as a single piece), although in some embodiments they may be formed of separate components.

(52) The supports can have an outer wall 122 that is preferably flush with and forms a continuous surface with the side wall 114 of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, however, the supports 120 can be inset from the side wall 114 such that there is a portion of the bottom surface 112 between the supports 120 and the side wall 114.

(53) FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom view of the valve 100. The valve is preferably circular with a radius R.sub.4, although in some embodiments the valve can have other shapes, such as a square, oval, rectangle, etc. In some embodiments, the radius R.sub.4 can be approximately equal to the radius R.sub.3 of the access port recess 140, such that the valve 100 can fit flush within the recess. In some embodiments, the radius R.sub.4 can be slightly or substantially smaller than the radius R.sub.3 such that a gap exists between the side walls 114 of the valve 100 and the side walls 142 of the access port recess when the valve is centered in the access port recess. The existence of a gap can make manufacturing of the valve easier. Varying the size of the gap can also affect flow rates through the valve. In some embodiments, the radius R.sub.4 can be between approximately 0.02 inches and approximately 0.09 inches smaller than the radius R.sub.3. In some embodiments, the radius R.sub.4 can be between approximately 0.03 inches and approximately 0.08 inches smaller than the radius R.sub.3. In some embodiments, the radius R.sub.4 can be between approximately 0.05 inches and approximately 0.06 inches smaller than the radius R.sub.3.

(54) In some embodiments, as illustrated, the supports 120 can be positioned approximately 180 degrees apart about the center of the valve. The valve can have an axis of symmetry 2 that bisects the valve and does not pass through either support, as illustrated. In some embodiments, the valve can have more than two supports 120, with pairs positioned approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. For example, a valve could have four supports, each 90 degrees apart, and multiple axes of symmetry that bisect the valve and do not pass through any of the supports. In some embodiments, the axis of symmetry can define how the valve deforms if it experiences a pressure differential between its bottom surface 112 and its top surface 116. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a positive net pressure on the top surface of the valve member would cause the valve member to bend, buckle, or curve generally about the axis of symmetry or an axis that is parallel to the axis of symmetry.

(55) In some embodiments, the supports 120 can all be positioned the same minimum distance R.sub.5 from the center of the valve. In some embodiments, one or more of the supports can have a different minimum distance from the center of the valve than one or more of the other supports, in which case R.sub.5 can refer to the minimum distance from the center of the valve to the closest support 120. In some embodiments, the relationship between the distance R.sub.5 and R.sub.4 can affect how easily the valve member deforms as a result of differential pressures on the top surface 116 and bottom surface 112 of the diaphragm 110. In some embodiments, for example, the ratio of R.sub.4 to R.sub.5 can be between approximately 1.2 and approximately 1.8. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.4 to R.sub.5 can be between approximately 1.3 and approximately 1.6. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.4 to R.sub.5 can be between approximately 1.3 and approximately 1.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.4 to R.sub.5 can be between approximately 1.35 and approximately 1.45. In some embodiments, the ratio of R.sub.4 to R.sub.5 can be greater than 1.8 or less than 1.2.

(56) FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the valve 100, oriented such that the axis of symmetry 2 is perpendicular to the illustrated plane. In various embodiments, the sizing of the diaphragm 110 and supports 120 can be modified to adjust the pressure differential required for the valve member to bend or buckle. For example, the supports can have a width w.sub.1 and the distance between the supports can have a width w.sub.2. Similarly, the diaphragm can have a thickness t.sub.1 and the supports can have a height h.sub.1. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the thickness t.sub.1 can affect the ability of the valve to resist pressure differentials. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the thickness t.sub.1 can be between approximately 7 and approximately 10. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the thickness t.sub.1 can be between approximately 7.5 and approximately 9.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the thickness t.sub.1 can be between approximately 8 and approximately 9. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the thickness t.sub.1 can be between approximately 8.2 and approximately 8.5.

(57) In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the height h.sub.1 of the supports can affect how easily and how much the diaphragm 110 can bend when the valve is in an open position, discussed below. This can also affect the ability of the valve to handle high flow rates and/or how quickly the valve opens to allow fluid flow. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the height h.sub.1 can be between approximately 3 and approximately 8. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the height h.sub.1 can be between approximately 4 and approximately 7. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the height h.sub.1 can be between approximately 4.5 and approximately 6.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the width w.sub.2 to the height h.sub.1 can be between approximately 5 and approximately 6.

(58) FIG. 11A illustrates a valve 100 positioned within an access port 40, as described above. The supports 120 can be positioned on the protrusions 150 to lift the diaphragm above the protrusions. In some embodiments, the access port recess 140 can have no protrusions and the supports of the valve can be positioned directly on the base 144 of the recess or on the base of any recessed portion of a flow channel. Thus, for example, in some embodiments the valve can be positioned within an inlet and/or an outlet port of a manifold, extension set, or other connection systems. In some embodiments, the valve can be positioned within a medical connector that has only a single inlet and outlet port.

(59) FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an access port 40 that has a medical connector attached to the access port. The access port can have a valve 100, which is not shown for illustrative purposes. As shown in FIG. 11B, when a medical connector is attached to an access port there can be a height h.sub.2 between a ring 74 of the medical connector and a top surface of the protrusions 150 extending from the base of the recess 140. There can also be a height h.sub.3 between a bottom surface of the base 70 of the medical connector (excluding any ring 74) and the top surface of the protrusions 150. Also visible in FIG. 11B is an inner radius R.sub.6 of the ring 74 of the medical connector (i.e., a radius from the center of the ring to an inner surface of a wall that forms the ring).

(60) FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an access port 40 that includes a valve member 100 and that has a medical connector 50 attached to the access port. In some embodiments, a base 70 of the medical connector can have an annular projection 72 that can be used to help attach the medical connector to the access port such as by sonic welding or gluing. Other forms of attachment are also possible, including snap fit constructions. In the illustrated embodiment, projection 72 is preferably glued into outer recess 44.

(61) FIG. 12A illustrates the valve member 100 in a closed position and FIG. 12B illustrates the valve member in an open position. The valve is oriented the same as in FIG. 10, such that the axis of symmetry of the valve is perpendicular to the plane of the figure. In the closed position, the diaphragm 112 of the valve can be generally flat on both sides and can seal against the base 70 of the medical connector. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the medical connector can have a ring 74 or other projection that can be sized and configured to contact and seal against the diaphragm 110 of the valve 100 when the valve is in a closed position. As shown in FIG. 4B, medical connector 50′ may include a similar ring 74′.

(62) In some embodiments, the medical connector 50 and/or the access port 40 can be sized and configured such that the base 70 of the medical connector or the ring 74 can compress at least a portion of the valve 100. This can help create the seal between the diaphragm 110 and the medical connector. Thus, in embodiments where the diaphragm seals against a ring 74 or other projection of the medical connector, the height h.sub.2 (shown in FIG. 11B) can be less than the total height of the valve member 100 (i.e., the sum of h.sub.1 and t.sub.1, illustrated in FIG. 10). Similarly, in embodiments where the connector does not have a ring or other projection, the height h.sub.3 (shown in FIG. 11B) can be less than the total height of the valve member. In various embodiments, the relative differences between the heights can affect the amount of sealing. For example, in some embodiments the ratio of the total height of the valve member to the height h.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.0 and approximately 1.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the total height of the valve member to the height h.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.0 and approximately 1.3. In some embodiments, the ratio of the total height of the valve member to the height h.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.0 and approximately 1.2. In some embodiments, the ratio of the total height of the valve member to the height h.sub.2 can be between approximately 1.1 and approximately 1.2. In embodiments without a sealing ring 74 or other projection, various ratios of the total height of the valve member to the height h.sub.3 can be as described with respect to the height h.sub.2. In some embodiments, the total height of the valve member can be less than the height h.sub.2 such that the valve member functions as a floating check valve. In some such instances, the supports 120 on the bottom surface of the diaphragm 110 may provide stability and prevent inversion of the diaphragm. Similar ratios are applicable to medical connector 50′.

(63) In various embodiments, the relationship between the radius R.sub.6 of a ring 74 (shown in FIG. 11B) and the distance R.sub.5 between supports 120 and the center of the valve (shown in FIG. 10) can affect how the valve deforms in response to a compressive force from the ring and any resulting change in a seal between the ring and the valve and/or in a cracking pressure of the valve (described further below). Preferably, R.sub.5 can be approximately equal to R.sub.6. In some embodiments, R.sub.5 can be smaller than R.sub.6. In some embodiments, R.sub.5 can be greater than R.sub.6. In some embodiments, the relationship between R.sub.5 and R.sub.6 can be varied according to the durometer of the check valve 100 in order to ensure that the valve seals as desired. Similar adjustments can be made to medical connector 50′.

(64) If a negative pressure differential exists on the diaphragm between the bottom surface 112 and the upper or top surface 116—i.e., a net negative pressure on the top surface—the pressure will tend to push the diaphragm against the base 70 or inner annular projection 74, which can create or enhance a seal and prevent fluid from flowing into the medical connector. In contrast, if there is a positive pressure differential—i.e., a positive net pressure on the top surface 116—the diaphragm 110 will tend to deform as described above and move the valve from a closed to an open position, as illustrated in FIG. 12B. In the open position, the valve can flex downward (creating a concavity on its top surface), allowing fluid to flow through an opening 76 in the base of the medical connector, into the access port recess 140, and through the access channel 42 to reach the main channel 14.

(65) In some embodiments, at least a portion of the valve member 100 remains stationary as the valve transitions between an open and closed position. This can help the valve move more easily from an open to a closed position to help prevent undesired retrograde flows. It can also allow for designs that transition from a closed to an open position at lower pressures, as described further below. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the diaphragm can remain in generally the same location when the valve is in an open position as when the valve is in a closed position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the diaphragm 110 can remain in contact with the base 70 of a medical connector when the valve is in the open position.

(66) In some embodiments, the valve 100 can be formed of a resilient material such that, absent a pressure differential, the valve tends to move toward the closed position (i.e., is biased toward the closed position).

(67) As described above, the valve can be designed differently to affect how easily it moves from a closed to an open position. The pressure differential required to move the valve 100 from a closed to an open position can be referred to as the cracking pressure. In some embodiments, the valve can have a minimal cracking pressure, such that the valve very easily transitions from a closed to an open position. This can make it easier to pass fluids through the valve and into a main fluid flow line. It also allows the valves to work effectively with high flow rate connectors (such as, for example, connectors that allow flow rates of 450 mL/min or even greater). In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is at or below approximately 5 psi. In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is at or below approximately 4 psi. In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is at or below approximately 3 psi. In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is at or below approximately 2 psi. In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is at or below approximately 1 psi. In some embodiments, the valve can have a cracking pressure that is less than the pressure exerted on the valve from fluid in a reservoir hanging on a standard IV pole. In some embodiments, this can be approximately equal to the pressure of 36 inches of water. In some embodiments, this can be approximately equal to 1.3 psi.

(68) In some embodiments, the cracking pressure can be zero, such that even with zero pressure differential between the lower 112 and upper 116 surfaces of the diaphragm 110 the valve will be in an open position. In other words, in some embodiments the closed position of the valve is not an equilibrium position of the valve. In such embodiments, the valve may not be in a closed position until a retrograde fluid flow creates a negative pressure differential on the diaphragm 110. In some embodiments with a zero cracking pressure, the valve can function as a floating check valve, as described, for example, above.

(69) FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an access port 40 that includes a valve 100 and that has a medical connector attached to the access port. FIGS. 13A and 13B are similar to FIGS. 12A and 12B, but include an illustration of the entirety of a medical connector 50 that can be attached to the access port. Additionally, FIG. 13A illustrates the valve 100 in a closed position and FIG. 13B illustrates a medical implement 200 connected to the medical connector.

(70) As described above, in some embodiments the medical connector 50 can be a needleless connector that has a base 70, a body 60, and a connector valve member 80. The base can also include an internal projection 90 that is within the body 60. A cannula 202 of the medical implement can compress the connector valve member 80 into an open position, exposing an opening 92 in the internal projection through which fluid in the cannula can pass. Once within the internal projection, the fluid can flow into the access port recess 140, through the access channel 42, and into the main flow channel 14. Similar activation can occur with medical connector 50′.

(71) In some embodiments, one or more components of the devices and elements described herein can be translucent, transparent, and/or clear such that the fluid flow path through the components is visible. These components can include, for example, the housing 12 of a manifold, the medical connector 50 (including the body 60, base 70, and/or valve member 80), the medical connector 50′ (including the body 60′, base 70′, and/or valve member 80′), and/or the check valve 100. Additionally, in some embodiments one or more components can include elements configured or adapted to kill pathogens. For example, in some embodiments one or more of the valves 80, 80′, or 100 can include antimicrobial agents. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial agents can be a coating or can be incorporated into the structure of the components, from where they can leach out, such as from a silicone matrix of a valve.

(72) The terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount.

(73) Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

(74) Similarly, this method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, inventive aspects may lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.