Importance

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Abstract

The quick disconnect assembly includes a reusable assembly including a distal end having a male lip thereon; and, a disposable assembly having quick disconnect capabilities when utilized with the reusable assembly. The disposable assembly includes a stem section; a finger lock element; and, a detachable handle assembly. The finger lock element includes a distal finger lock element section having a threaded inner surface for engagement with a threaded outer surface of the stem section; and, a plurality of radially spaced fingers extending proximally from the distal finger lock element section. Each finger has a) a ramped surface for operatively engaging an associated ramp section on the stem section during use; and, b) a female lip at a proximal end thereof. The detachable handle assembly includes a proximal handle section having a distal end having an inner surface that is operatively engaged with an outer surface of the finger lock element so as to resist relative rotation and axial motion therebetween. A distal handle section of the detachable handle assembly includes a distal handle section having an inner surface that is operatively engaged with another outer surface of the stem section so as to resist relative rotation and axial motion therebetween. A breakaway collar of the detachable handle assembly is positioned between the proximal handle section and the distal handle section. When the disposable assembly is attached, the breakaway collar is an integral unit which prevents relative rotation between the proximal handle section and the distal handle section, the female lip engaging the male lip at a distal end of the reusable assembly, thereby securing the reusable assembly to the disposable assembly. The quick disconnect assembly may be used to provide only a mechanical connection or it may be provided with components for providing fluid transfer. In another embodiment, instead of only providing for single use, multiple use of a detachable assembly is provided by eliminating the breakaway collar and utilizing spring biasing means.

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First Claim