Importance

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Abstract

A close-on-disconnect IV line connector pair includes a first connector element that includes normally-closed valve, and a second connector element, wherein the coupling of the first and second connector elements automatically opens the valve, and wherein the disconnecting of the first and second connector elements allows the valve to return to its normally-closed position. Specifically, the first connector element has an inlet end, an outlet end, and an internal valve orifice. The inlet end is configured for attachment to an upstream conduit, while the outlet end is configured for coupling with the second connector element. The valve includes a pair of flexible valve elements that normally close against each other, so that the valve has a normally closed position that prevents fluid flow through the valve orifice. The second connector element has an outlet end configured for attachment to a downstream conduit and an inlet end configured for coupling with the first connector element. The inlet end has a hollow tubular tip that fits into the outlet end of the first connector element, through the valve orifice, and between the valve elements, so as to flex apart the valve elements, thereby opening the valve. Upon removal of the tip from the valve orifice, the valve elements resiliently return to their closed position to close the valve, blocking fluid flow through the valve orifice.

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First Claim