CLAMP, ESPECIALLY FOR A CONNECTION BETWEEN A VENTILATOR AND A PATIENT

Abstract

A clamp (1) releases or blocks a fluid connection as desired. A clamping tube (3, 4, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1) of the clamp (1) includes a blocking fluid guide element (7.1) and two connecting fluid guide elements (3, 4). The blocking fluid guide element (7.1) is connected in a fluid-tight manner to the two connecting fluid guide elements (3, 4). A clamping unit of the clamp (1) includes two clamping components (8.1, 10.1, 8.2, 10.2). The blocking fluid guide element (7.1) is located between the two clamping components (8.1, 10.1, 8.2, 10.2). In a releasing state of the clamping unit, the blocking fluid guide element (7.1) establishes a fluid connection between the two connecting fluid guide elements (3, 4). In a blocking state, the two clamping components (8.1, 10.1, 8.2, 10.2) prevent a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element (7.1).

Claims

1. A clamp for selectively releasing or blocking a fluid connection, the clamp comprising: a clamping tube, the clamping tube comprising: a blocking fluid guide element; a first connecting fluid guide element; and a second connecting fluid guide element, wherein the blocking fluid guide element is fluid-tightly connected to the first connecting fluid guide element and is fluid-tightly connected to the second connecting fluid guide element; and a clamping unit comprising two clamping components, wherein the blocking fluid guide element is located between the two clamping components, wherein the clamping unit is configured to selectively be brought into a releasing state or into a blocking state, wherein with the clamping unit being in the releasing state, the blocking fluid guide element establishes a fluid connection between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element, and wherein with the clamping unit being in the blocking state, the two clamping components prevent a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element or reduce a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element by at least 80% compared to the releasing state and thereby interrupt or at least limit the fluid connection between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element with the clamping unit in the blocking state.

2. A clamp in accordance with claim 1, wherein each connecting fluid guide element is or comprises a rigid tubular component; and wherein each clamping component is mechanically connected to a respective connecting fluid guide element or the two clamping components are mechanically connected to the same connecting fluid guide element.

3. A clamp in accordance with claim 1, wherein the two connecting fluid guide elements are permanently mechanically connected to one another by at least one mechanical connection element.

4. A clamp in accordance with claim 1, wherein: the blocking fluid guide element is flexible over its entire length or at least in one area; and with the clamping unit being in the blocking state, the two clamping components clamp the blocking fluid guide element in the flexible area between the two clamping components, whereby the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element is reduced by at least 80% in the blocking state compared to the releasing state.

5. A clamp in accordance with claim 4, wherein: the two clamping components each comprise a respective jaw; the two jaws are articulated to each other in a V shape or U shape configuration or are connected linearly displaceable relative to each other; and the two jaws clamp the flexible blocking fluid guide element between the two jaws with the clamping unit being in the blocking state.

6. A clamp in accordance with claim 5, wherein: the clamp comprises two guiding elements; each jaw is associated with a respective one of the two guiding elements; and each of the two guiding elements is configured to guide the associated jaw during a movement of the jaw relative to the clamping tube.

7. A clamp in accordance with claim 6, wherein: one of the two guiding elements has an elongated hole and the another of the two guiding elements comprises a fork; the clamping tube is passed through the elongated hole in each of the blocking state and the releasing state; and the fork encloses the clamping tube from two sides when the clamping unit being in the blocking state.

8. A clamp in accordance with claim 1, wherein: the two clamping components each comprise a blocking slider; the two blocking sliders are configured to be movable relative to the blocking fluid guide element between a blocking position and a releasing position; with the two blocking sliders being in the blocking position, the clamping unit is in the blocking state and the two blocking sliders interrupt the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element compared to the releasing state or at least reduce by 80% the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element compared to the releasing state; and with the two blocking sliders being in the releasing position, the clamping unit is in the releasing state and the two blocking sliders are located at spaced locations from one another.

9. A clamp in accordance with claim 8, wherein the blocking fluid guide element is configured as a rigid tubular component.

10. A clamp in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a locking unit configured to lock the two clamping components and to thereby hold the clamping unit in the blocking state.

11. A clamp in accordance with claim 10, wherein: a distance between the two clamping components is variable; the distance between the two clamping components with the clamping unit being in the blocking state is smaller than the distance between the two clamping components with the clamping unit being in the releasing state; and the locking unit is configured to lock the two clamping components being in a position of smallest distance to each other.

12. A connection device for establishing a fluid connection between a first device and a second device, the connection device comprising: a first fluid guide unit being connectable with the first device; a second fluid guide unit being connectable with the second device; and a clamp, the clamp comprising: a clamping tube, the clamping tube comprising: a blocking fluid guide element; a first connecting fluid guide element; and a second connecting fluid guide element, wherein the blocking fluid guide element is fluid-tightly connected to the first connecting fluid guide element and is fluid-tightly connected to the second connecting fluid guide element; and a clamping unit comprising two clamping components, wherein the blocking fluid guide element is located between the two clamping components, wherein the clamping unit is configured to selectively be brought into a releasing state or into a blocking state, wherein with the clamping unit being in the releasing state, the blocking fluid guide element establishes a fluid connection between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element, wherein with the clamping unit being in the blocking state, the two clamping components prevent a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element or reduce a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element by at least 80% compared to the releasing state and thereby interrupt or at least limit the fluid connection between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element, wherein the first connecting fluid guide element is fluid-tightly connected to the first fluid guide unit, and wherein the second connecting fluid guide element is fluid-tightly connected to the second fluid guide unit.

13. A connection device according to claim 12 as part of a ventilation system, the ventilation system further comprising: a ventilator; and a patient-side coupling unit configured to be at least temporarily positioned in, or positioned on, or positioned at a body of a patient, wherein the first fluid guide unit is fluid-tightly connected to the patient-side coupling unit, wherein the second fluid guide unit is fluid-tightly connected to the ventilator, and wherein the ventilator is configured to cause a fluid to be conveyed through the connection device to the patient-side coupling unit.

14. A connection device according to claim 13, wherein: the first connecting fluid guide element is permanently connected to the first fluid guide unit; and the second connecting fluid guide element is detachably connected to the second fluid guide unit.

15. A connection device according to claim 12, wherein: the blocking fluid guide element is flexible over its entire length or at least in one area; and with the clamping unit being in the blocking state, the two clamping components clamp the blocking fluid guide element in the flexible area between the two clamping components, whereby the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element is reduced by at least 80% in the blocking state compared to the releasing state.

16. A connection device according to claim 12, wherein: the two clamping components each comprise a respective jaw; the two jaws are articulated to each other in a V shape or U shape configuration or are connected linearly displaceable relative to each other; and the two jaws clamp the flexible blocking fluid guide element between the two jaws with the clamping unit being in the blocking state.

17. A connection device according to claim 12, wherein: the two clamping components each comprise a blocking slider; the two blocking sliders are configured to be moved to and from relative to the blocking fluid guide element between a blocking position and a releasing position; with the clamping unit in the blocking state, with the two blocking sliders in the blocking position, the two blocking sliders interrupt the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element compared to the releasing state or reduce by 80% the flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element compared to the releasing state; and with the clamping unit in the releasing state the two blocking sliders are located at spaced locations from one another in the releasing position.

18. A process comprising: providing a clamp for selectively releasing or blocking a fluid connection, the clamp comprising: a clamping unit comprising two clamping components; and a clamping tube, the clamping tube comprising: a blocking fluid guide element; a first connecting fluid guide element; and a second connecting fluid guide element; locating the blocking fluid guide element between the two clamping components; fluid-tightly connecting the blocking fluid guide element to the first connecting fluid guide element and to the second connecting fluid guide element; selectively bringing the clamping unit into a releasing state or into a blocking state; with the clamping unit being in the releasing state, the blocking fluid guide element establishing a fluid connection between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element; and with the clamping unit being in the blocking state, the two clamping components preventing a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element or reducing a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element by at least 80% compared to the releasing state and thereby interrupting or at least limiting the fluid connection between the between the first connecting fluid guide element and the second connecting fluid guide element.

19. A process according to claim 18, wherein the clamp is provided as a component of a connection device, wherein the connection device establishes or is at least capable of establishing at least from time to time a fluid connection between a medical device and a patient-side coupling unit.

20. A process according to claim 18, wherein: a computer program is provided with a non-transitory computer-readable medium; the computer program is executable on a computer; and the computer program is configured to actuate a 3D printer during the execution, wherein the actuation of the 3D printer causes the 3D printer to produce the clamp.

21. A process according to claim 18, wherein: a 3D printer is provided, which 3D printer comprises a processor and a memory; a computer program is stored in the memory, which is a non-transitory computer-readable medium; and the processor is configured to execute the stored computer program and to actuate the 3D printer during the execution of the computer program such that the actuated 3D printer produces the clamp.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] In the drawings,

[0066] FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a ventilation device for the artificial ventilation of a patient by means of a ventilator;

[0067] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the clamp according to the present invention in the releasing state;

[0068] FIG. 3 is a side view showing the first embodiment according to FIG. 2 in the releasing state;

[0069] FIG. 4 is a side view showing the first embodiment according to FIG. 2 in the blocking state;

[0070] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the clamp according to the present invention in the releasing state;

[0071] FIG. 6 is a front view showing the second embodiment according to FIG. 5 in the releasing state;

[0072] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the second embodiment according to FIG. 5 in the blocking state;

[0073] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the clamp according to the present invention in the releasing state;

[0074] FIG. 9a is a front view showing the third embodiment according to FIG. 8 in the releasing state;

[0075] FIG. 9b is a sectional view showing the third embodiment according to FIG. 8 in the releasing state; and

[0076] FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing the third embodiment according to FIG. 8 in the blocking state.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Referring to the drawings, the present invention is used in the exemplary embodiment for the artificial ventilation of a patient. A patient-side coupling unit is arranged in or at or on the body of the patient. The patient-side coupling unit comprises, e.g., a ventilation tube, a breathing mask and/or a mouthpiece. A fluid connection is established between the patient-side coupling unit and a ventilator. A gas mixture can flow through this fluid connection from the ventilator to the patient-side coupling unit. Two fluid connections are optionally established, so that a gas mixture can flow back from the patient-side coupling unit to the ventilator.

[0078] The ventilator carries out a sequence of ventilation strokes in order to feed a gas mixture containing oxygen to the patient through the fluid connection. The gas mixture may contain at least one anesthetic in order to anesthetize or at least sedate the patient.

[0079] FIG. 1 schematically shows a ventilation system 2, which ventilates a patient P mechanically and comprises the following components: [0080] a ventilator 17 with a display and operating unit 19 shown schematically and with a fluid delivery unit, not shown, for example, a blower or a pump, [0081] a patient-side coupling unit comprising an endotracheal tube or a tracheal cannula or a catheter 26, [0082] a mouthpiece 27, which is connected to the component 26 in a fluid-tight manner, [0083] a patient-side hose system 18, which is connected to the patient-side coupling unit 26, [0084] a device-side hose system 21, which is connected to the ventilator 17, [0085] an optional breathing air filter 20 between the device-side hose system 21 and the ventilator 17, [0086] an optional filter 29 against bacteria, microbes, and viruses, wherein the filter 29 is preferably arranged in the device-side hose system 21, and [0087] a clamp 1 according to the present invention between the two hose systems 18 and 21, wherein the clamp 1 will be explained in more detail below.

[0088] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the clamp 1 is connected to the hose system 18 in a fluid-tight manner, and the hose system 18 is connected to the mouthpiece 27 in a fluid-tight manner. Gaps may, of course, occur based on inevitable deviations between actual and desired states and changes in the materials used.

[0089] It is also possible that the clamp 1 is connected directly to the mouthpiece 27 or to the tube or catheter 26 or to another component of the patient-side coupling unit. In one embodiment, the clamp 1 and the mouthpiece 27 form a single component. This component 1, 27 is connected or can be connected to the tube or catheter 26 and to the device-side hose system 21 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0090] The flow direction, in which a gas mixture flows from the ventilator 17 through the fluid connection to the patient-side coupling unit 26, is suggested by the arrow F in FIG. 1.

[0091] It is necessary in many cases from time to time to interrupt the fluid connection between the ventilator 17 and the patient-side coupling unit 26. A possible reason on the patient side is that the patient P shall be transported from the ventilator 17 to another ventilator. Possible device-side reasons for interrupting the fluid connection are that a cleaning or maintenance or repair must be carried out on the ventilator 17 or that an operating material, especially a filter element, must be replenished or replaced. As soon as and as long as the fluid connection is interrupted, the patient P is separated from the ventilator 17. The patient is thus disconnected from the artificial ventilation from time to time. The time period during which the patient P is disconnected from the artificial ventilation is usually shorter than 3 minutes. Without countermeasures, there would be in many cases a risk that the patient-side coupling unit 26 and hence the lungs of the patient P is/are in a fluid communication with the surrounding area when the fluid connection between the patient P and the ventilator 17 is interrupted. Such a fluid communication with the surrounding area is often undesired since it may lead to a drop in the residual air pressure in the lungs of the patient P (end-expiratory pressure, PEEP). This could cause in some patients a collapse of the lungs or the development of an atelectasis. The clamp 1 according to the present invention reduces the risk of occurrence of an undesired fluid communication between the lungs and the surrounding area, and it thus reduces the risk of an undesirably low end-expiratory pressure. The clamp 1 rather contributes in many cases to an interruption of the fluid communication and thus to the maintenance of a residual air pressure (PEEP) in the lungs for a sufficiently long time.

[0092] FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4 show the clamp 1 according to a first embodiment of the exemplary embodiment in two perspective views and in a side view. The clamp 1 comprises a patient-side connecting fluid guide element 3 and a device-side connecting fluid guide element 4. The two connecting elements 3, 4 act as the two connecting fluid guide elements. The patient-side connecting element 3 is connected to the patient-side hose system 18 in a fluid-tight manner, preferably permanently, and optionally detachably. The device-side connecting element 4 is detachably connected to the device-side hose system 21 in a fluid-tight manner. The two connecting elements 3, 4 each comprise a hollow cylinder and a hollow cone 6.1, 6.2, which is permanently connected to the cylinder. The free closing surfaces of the two cones 6.1, 6.2 face one another. Two webs 5.1, 5.2, which extend parallel to the flow direction F, connect the two connecting elements 3, 4 permanently to one another and act as mechanical connection elements.

[0093] A hose 7.1 is pulled over the two cones 6.1, 6.2. This hose 7.1 is manufactured from a flexible material, i.e., it can be deformed reversibly and especially by pushing in, and is connected to the two cones 6.1, 6.2 by connection in substance, for example, by a bonded connection,

[0094] in a positive-locking (form-fit) manner, for example, by the intrinsic elasticity, and/or

[0095] in a force-locked manner, for example, by means of a circumferential projection,

[0096] and it embodies a fluid-tight fluid connection between the two connecting elements 3 and 4. The hose 7.1 forms the blocking fluid guide element in the first embodiment.

[0097] A gas mixture, which flows from the ventilator 17 to the patient-side coupling unit 26 in the flow direction F, flows through the device-side hose system 21, the connecting element 4, the hose 7.1, the connecting element 3, and the patient-side hose system 18.

[0098] The two connecting elements 3 and 4 with the cones 6.1 and 6.2, the webs 5.1 and 5.2 as well as the hose 7.1 belong to the clamping tube according to the first embodiment.

[0099] The two connecting elements 3 and 4 as well as the two webs 5.1 and 5.2 are preferably manufactured from a solid plastic, while the hose 7.1 is flexible and can be reversibly compressed. All these components are manufactured each from a material that has a sufficient resistance to detergents and disinfectants. The hose 7.1 is preferably manufactured from silicone. The two webs 5.1 and 5.2 prevent the one connecting element 3, 4 from being able to move relative to the other connecting element 4, 3. Therefore, and since the hose 7.1 is pulled over the two cones 6.1, 6.2 or is connected to them in another manner, the risk of bending or kinking of the hose 7.1 is relatively low. The risk of the hose 7.1 being damaged or pulled unintentionally from a connecting element 3, 4 is therefore relatively low. Furthermore, the risk that the clamp 1 leads to a leak in the fluid connection is relatively low.

[0100] When the hose 7.1 is fully compressed, practically no fluid can flow through the hose 7.1, and the fluid connection between the two connecting elements 3 and 4 is interrupted. Since the clamp 1 is connected in a fluid-tight manner to the patient-side hose system 18, a fluid communication between the lungs of the patient P and the surrounding area is prevented from occurring.

[0101] The clamp 1 comprises a clamping unit with two jaws 8.1 and 8.2, wherein the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 enclose the hose 7.1 from two opposite sides. The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 are connected to the two webs 5.1 and 5.2 in an articulated manner and are connected to one another in an articulated manner in the form of a V, namely, at the level of the device-side connecting element 4. The two jaws 8.1, 8.2 are also connected via the webs 5.1, 5.2 to the device-side connecting element 4. The jaws 8.1, 8.2 can be rotated relative to the two webs 5.1, 5.2 about an axis of rotation DA, which axis extends through the device-side connecting element 4. It is also possible that the axis of rotation DA passes through the patient-side connecting element 3 and the two jaws 8.1, 8.2 are connected to the patient-side connecting element 3 in an articulated manner.

[0102] A gripping element 9.1, 9.2 each in the form of a fluting is arranged on the outwardly pointing surface of a jaw 8.1, 8.2. A respective V-shaped clamping element 10.1, 10.2 with a rounded tip, which tip points towards the hose 7.1, is attached to the inwardly pointing surface.

[0103] FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 show a releasing state of the clamping unit 8.1, 8.2. In this releasing state the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 have the maximum possible distance from one another and release the hose 7.1, so that the fluid connection is established between the two connecting elements 3 and 4. The distance between the two clamping elements 10.1 and 10.2 is greater in the releasing state than the diameter of the non-compressed hose 7. The two clamping elements 10.1 and 10.2 thus do not hinder the flow of a fluid through the hose 7.1.

[0104] The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can be compressed until the two clamping elements 10.1, 10.2 compress the hose 7.1 completely and the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 have the minimal distance from one another, cf. FIG. 4. The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 and hence the clamping unit are in a blocking state at the minimal distance and interrupt the fluid connection between the two connecting elements 3 and 4. The two clamping elements 10.1 and 10.2 clamp especially the hose 7.1 between them and compress it in the blocking state, so that the fluid connection is interrupted. However, the flow rate, which is still possible through the hose 7.1, is reduced at least to less than 20%, preferably to less than 10% and especially preferably to less than 5% of the flow rate occurring in the releasing state. The flow rate is reduced to 0% in case of an interrupted fluid connection.

[0105] When the jaws 8.1, 8.2 are in this blocking state, the device-side hose system 21 can be separated from the device-side connecting element 4 without a fluid communication being established between the lungs of the patient P and the surrounding area. The device-side hose system 21 to the ventilator 17 or to another ventilator can be connected again later to the device-side connecting element 4, and the patient P can be connected again to the ventilator 17 or to another ventilator.

[0106] In one embodiment, the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can be brought only into the releasing state or into a blocking state. In another embodiment, the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can additionally be used to reduce the flow rate, i.e., the volume per unit of time, of a fluid flowing through the hose 7.1 without the fluid connection being completely interrupted. The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 are compressed for this purpose to the extent that the distance between the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 is between the maximum distance (no action on the hose 7.1) and the minimum distance (hose 7.1 fully compressed). The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 then establish an intermediate state.

[0107] In the exemplary embodiment, the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 are guided mechanically, while they are being transferred from one state into the other state relative to the connecting elements 3 and 4. Two holders 11.1 and 11.2 are connected permanently to the free end of a jaw 8.1 and 8.2, respectively. The holder 11.2 encloses the patient-side connecting element 3 both in the blocking state and in the releasing state. The patient-side connecting element 3 is passed through an elongated hole 13 in the holder 11.2. The holder 11.2 and hence the jaw 8.2 are therefore guided, while the jaw 8.2 is moved relative to the connecting elements 3 and 4. The holder 11.1 has the shape of a fork with two tines, wherein the two tines of the fork 11.1 enclose the patient-side connecting element 3 from two sides in the blocking state (FIG. 4) and have a distance each from the patient-side connecting element 3 in the releasing state (FIG. 2, FIG. 3). The two tines of the fork 11.1 guide the jaw 8.1, while the jaw 8.1 is being moved relative to the two connecting elements 3 and 4.

[0108] The two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can be locked in the blocking state (FIG. 4) in the exemplary embodiment. A mechanical locking unit prevents the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 from moving unintentionally away from one another and thereby the clamping unit from being moved unintentionally or from moving by itself into the releasing state or into an intermediate state. The locking unit comprises the two holders 11.1 and 11.2. A pair of hooks 12.1 at the two tines of the fork 11.1 meshes in the blocking state with two corresponding hooks 12.2 at the holder 11.2. As a result, the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 are locked in the blocking state. In one embodiment of the exemplary embodiment (FIG. 4), three pairs of hooks 12.2 are arranged at the holder 11.2, so that the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can be locked relative to one another at one of three different possible distances relative to one another. More than 10 pairs of hooks are arranged in another embodiment (FIG. 2, FIG. 3). A different number of hook pairs are, of course, also possible at the holder 11.2 or also at the holder 11.1. The embodiment with at least two hook pairs at a holder 11.2 and/or 11.1 makes it possible to lock the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 in the blocking state or in a state in which a reduced flow rate through the hose 7.1 is still made possible, especially in an intermediate state.

[0109] A user can move the clamp 1 manually into the releasing state. To do so, the user releases the locking of the jaws 8.1, 8.2, for example, by moving the tines of the fork 11.1 away from the holder 12.2. The jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can then move away from one another by themselves or they can be moved away from one another, and they release the hose 7.1. It is possible that the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 are mounted in a pretensioned state such that when they are not locked, they are in the releasing state or move into the releasing state by themselves.

[0110] FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7 show a second embodiment of the clamp 1. Identical reference numbers have the same meanings as in the description of the first embodiment according to FIG. 2 through FIG. 4. The clamping unit 8.1, 8.2 is in the releasing state in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 and in the blocking state in FIG. 7.

[0111] Contrary to the first embodiment, the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2 are connected to one another at both ends rather than at one end only in the second embodiment. A patient-side elongated hole 14.1, through which the patient-side connecting element 3 is passed, is formed between the patient-side ends of the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2. A device-side elongated hole 14.2, through which the device-side connecting element 4 is passed, is formed between the device-side ends. The two connecting elements 3 and 4 are permanently connected to the two ends of the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2. No webs 5.1, 5.2 are present in the second embodiment, especially because the connection between the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2 is mechanically more stable than in the first embodiment.

[0112] The two clamping components 8.1, 8.2 are flexible and can be compressed in a central area. Gripping elements 9.1, 9.2 are applied at least in this central area to the respective outer surface of the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2.

[0113] Two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 are connected to the lower clamping component 8.2 such that the lower clamping component 8.2 is located between these two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2. The connection between the two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2, on the one hand, and the lower clamping component 8.2, on the other hand, is established by two mechanical connection elements 30.1, 30.2. The two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 are rotatable relative to the lower clamping component 8.2 about two parallel axes of rotation, these axes of rotation extending through the two connection elements 30.1, 30.2 and being directed at right angles to the drawing plane of FIG. 6.

[0114] Two protruding locking bodies 31.1, 31.2 are placed on the two inner surfaces of the two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2. These two locking bodies 31.1, 31.2 mesh with two gaps between the upper clamping element 10.1 and the upper clamping component 8.1 from two mutually opposite sides when the two clamping components 8.1, 8.2 are compressed and the clamping unit is therefore in the blocking state. The two elastically configured connection elements 30.1, 30.2 or a respective additional spring each hold the two locking bodies 31.1, 31.2 in this meshing state.

[0115] Two gripping elements 16.1, 16.2 are placed on the two outer surfaces of the blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2. The two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 can be rotated relative to the lower clamping component 8.2 by a user compressing the two gripping elements 16.1, 16.2. As a result, the two locking bodies 31.1, 31.2 are pulled out of the two gaps. The two clamping components 8.1 and 8.2 move away from one another. As a result, the clamping unit is brought into the releasing state.

[0116] As can be seen in FIG. 7, an optional strap 32 is connected rotatably to the one blocking snapper 15.1. This strap 32 can be pushed over the other blocking snapper 15.2 and it will then prevent the two locking bodies 31.1 and 31.2 from moving away from one another. As long as the strap 32 is holding the blocking snapper 15.2, the strap 32 reduces the risk of the clamping unit being inadvertently brought into the releasing state. The clamp 1 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 can also be embodied without such a strap 32.

[0117] FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10 show a third embodiment of the present invention, where the clamping unit is in the releasing state in FIG. 8 and in FIG. 9 and in the blocking state in FIG. 10. FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the clamp 1. FIG. 9a) shows a front view of the clamp 1, wherein the flow direction through the clamp 1 is at right angles to the drawing plane. FIG. 9b) and FIG. 10 show a sectional view in a centrally arranged plane, which is at right angles to the viewing direction of FIG. 9a).

[0118] It is possible to use a flexible hose 7.1 as the blocking fluid guide element in this third embodiment as well. The hose 7.1 is replaced, by contrast, by a rigid blocking fluid guide element 7.2 in the embodiment shown. This rigid blocking fluid guide element 7.2 is connected in a fluid-tight manner to the two connecting elements 3 and 4 and has the shape of a cuboid with rounded edges in this embodiment. Two circular openings, into which the connecting elements 3 and 4, respectively, are inserted, are recessed in two mutually opposite surfaces of this cuboid. A respective slot each, which is at right angles to the flow direction of fluid through the clamp 1, is recessed in each of the four other surfaces, This flow direction is at right angles to the drawing planes of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

[0119] Two blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 with two gripping elements 9.1 and 9.2, respectively, located on the outside, are recessed in two slots located mutually opposite each other. These slots are arranged at the top and at the bottom, respectively, in the embodiment shown. The two blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 are movable linearly relative to the blocking fluid guide element 7.2, namely, in two mutually opposite directions, upwards and downwards in the view shown. These two blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 touch each other in the blocking state in an edge and prevent a flow of fluid through the blocking fluid guide element 7.2. A distance occurs in the releasing state (FIG. 8, FIG. 9) between these two blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2, so that a flow of fluid is made possible.

[0120] Two locking slides 42.1, 42.2 are recessed in the two other mutually opposite slots. The two locking slides 42.1, 42.2 are movable linearly relative to the blocking fluid guide element 7.2, namely, in two mutually opposite directions, to the left and to the right in the view shown. When the clamping unit is in the blocking state (FIG. 10), two pairs 41.1 and 41.2 of detents mesh at the blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 with corresponding recesses in the two locking slides 42.1 and 42.2. As a result, the two blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 are locked in the blocking state. The two locking slides 42.1 and 42.2 project over the blocking fluid guide element 7.2 over the maximum possible section.

[0121] To bring the blocking sliders 40.1 and 40.2 from the blocking state into the releasing state, the two locking slides 42.1, 42.2 are compressed, for example, by a user. Two pairs 43.1, 43.2 of bevels on the two locking slides 42.1, 42.2 press against the beveled detents 41.1, 41.2. As a result, the two blocking sliders 40.1, 40.2 are pushed apart and they release the blocking fluid guide element 7.2.

[0122] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the application of the principles of the invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.

LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

[0123]

TABLE-US-00001 1 Clamp; it comprises the connecting elements 3 and 4, the webs 5.1 and 5.2, the hose 7.1 or the rigid element 7.2 as well as the jaws 8.1 and 8.2 2 Ventilation system; it comprises the ventilator 17 and the connection device 100; it is capable of delivering a gas mixture to the patient-side coupling unit 26 3 Patient-side rigid connecting element of the clamp 1, connected to the patient-side hose system 18 4 Device-side rigid connecting element of the clamp 1, connected detachably to the device-side hose system 21 5.1, Webs, which permanently connect the connecting elements 3 and 4 to one another in 5.2 the first embodiment; they enclose the hose 7.1 from two sides 6.1, Cones of the respective connecting elements 3 and 4 6.2 7.1 Flexible blocking fluid guide element in the form of a hose, which connects the rigid connecting elements 3 and 4 to one another; it is pulled over the cones 6.1, 6.2; it can be compressed by the clamping components 8.1, 8.2 7.2 Rigid blocking fluid guide element, which can be closed by the blocking sliders 40.1, 40.2 8.1, Clamping components, which together can clamp or release the hose 7.1 between them 8.2 as desired; they are connected to the webs 5.1 and 5.2 in an articulated manner 9.1, Gripping element in the form of a fluting, arranged on the outer surface of a clamping 9.2 component 8.1 and 8.2 as well as 40.1, 40.2, respectively 10.1, V-shaped clamping element, arranged on the inner surface of a clamping component 10.2 8.1, 8.2, respectively; it touches the hose 7.1 in the blocking state 11.1 Holder in the form of a fork; it encloses in the blocking state of the jaws 8.1, 8.2 the patient-side connecting element 3; it belongs to the locking unit of the first embodiment and acts as a guide element 11.2 Holder with the elongated hole 13; it encloses in both states of the jaws 8.1, 8.2 the patient-side connecting element 3; it belongs to the locking unit of the first embodiment 12.1 Pair of hooks at the holder 11.1; it belongs to the locking unit 12.2 Pairs of hooks at the holder 11.2; they belong to the locking unit 13 Elongated hole in the holder 11.2, through which the patient-side connecting element 3 is passed; it acts as a guide element 14.1, Elongated holes in the clamping unit 8.1, 8.2, through which the two connecting 14.2 elements 3, 4 are passed 15.1, Blocking snappers of the second embodiment; they carry the locking bodies 31.1 and 15.2 31.2, respectively 16.1, Gripping elements at the blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 and at the locking slides 42.1, 16.2 42.2 17 Ventilator, via which the device-side hose system 21 is connected to the clamp 1; it comprises the display and operating unit 19 18 Patient-side hose system; it connects the patient-side coupling unit 26 to the patient- side connection 3 of the clamp 1; it belongs to the patient-side fluid guide unit 19 Display and operating unit at the ventilator 17 20 Optional breathing air filter between the device-side hose system 21 and the ventilator 17 21 Device-side hose system; it connects the ventilator 17 to the device-side connection 4 of the clamp 1 26 Tube; it belongs to the patient-side coupling unit 27 Mouthpiece; it connects the patient-side hose system 18 or directly the clamp 1 to the tube 26; it belongs to the patient-side fluid guide unit 29 Filter for viruses, microbes, and bacteria, arranged in the device-side hose system 21 30.1, Connection elements, which connect the two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 to the lower 30.2 clamping component 8.2 31.1, Locking bodies, arranged on the inside on the two blocking snappers 15.1, 15.2 31.2 32 Optional strap, connected rotatably to the holder 15.1; it can be displaced over the holder 15.2 40.1, blocking slider which can close the rigid blocking fluid guide unit 7.2 40.2 41.1, Detents at the slides 40.1, 40.2 41.2 42.1, Locking slides for locking and unlocking the blocking sliders 40.1, 40.2 42.2 43.1, Bevels on the locking slides 42.1, 42.2; they can push the blocking sliders 40.1, 40.2 43.2 away from one another 100 Connection device; it comprises the patient-side coupling unit 26, the mouthpiece 27, the hose systems 21 and 18, the clamp 1 as well as the optional breathing air filter 20 and the optional filter 29 DA Axis of rotation, about which the two jaws 8.1 and 8.2 can be rotated relative to the device-side connecting element 4 and relative to one another F Flow direction, in which the gas mixture flows from the ventilator 17 to the patient- side coupling unit 26 P Patient, connected to the ventilator 17 via the patient-side coupling unit 26 and the connection device 100