FLUID FLOW CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Systems and methods for controlling fluid flow are described. In some aspects, a system may include a first port, a second port, and a third port. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of a device is not inserted in a female fitting of the third port. The valve may block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port if the system is in the first state. The system may also be configured to be in a second state if a male fitting of a device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port if the system is in the second state.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to systems and methods for controlling fluid flow. For example, this disclosure relates to systems and methods that may be used to drain fluid from and inject fluid to a subject with the same device.

BACKGROUND

Existing bladder drainage system typically include a Foley catheter connecting the bladder of a patient to a urine-collecting bag via a drainage port and tubing. If there is a need to irrigate the bladder or administer a medication to the bladder, the system needs to be manually disconnected at the drainage port site to connect a syringe to the Foley catheter to have access to the bladder. Alternatively, if the drainage bag is not disconnected from the Foley catheter, the drainage bag pathway needs to be clamped so that a syringe can flush solution through a three-way stopcock device to the bladder. Other existing fluid flow control systems have similar structures.

SUMMARY

Existing fluid flow control systems and methods suffer (e.g., existing bladder drainage systems, existing feeding tube systems, and existing infusion systems) suffer from various disadvantages. For example, these systems are not user friendly or reliable, are prone to user error, and can decrease the cleanliness and sterility of the systems, which can potentially cause patient harm and the loss of patient samples. In addition, debris and clots in the existing systems can cause system dysfunction and damage, and contaminate the patient's sample or instilled medium (e.g., medication, sterile water, antibiotics, chemo agent, or nutrition).

Some aspects of the present disclosure may overcome one or more issues associated with conventional fluid flow control systems and methods. Some aspects of the present disclosure may provide novel fluid flow control systems and methods that are easier to use and can avoid system dysfunction (e.g., caused by debris and clots) and cross-contamination between the systems and the fluid.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for directing fluid flow. The system may include a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, and a valve. The first port may be configured to be coupled to a first channel. The second port may be configured to be coupled to a second channel. The third port may be configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel. The third port may include a female fitting. The central passage may connect the first port, the second port, and the third port. The valve may include a member that includes a slant lower surface. The slant lower surface may define a lower boundary of the member. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The valve may be configured to block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port if the valve is in the first position. The system may be configured to be in a second state if a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. The valve may be configured to connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port if the valve is in the second position. The system may be configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting of the third port causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state. The slant lower surface of the member of the valve may be configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitioning from the first state to the second state.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for directing fluid flow. The system may include a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, and a valve. The first port may be configured to be coupled to a first channel. The second port may be configured to be coupled to a second channel. The third port may be configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel. The third port may include a female fitting. The central passage may connect the first port, the second port, and the third port. The valve may include a member and an elastic flange. A periphery of the elastic flange may be fixed to the body. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The valve may be configured to block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port if the valve is in the first position. The system may be configured to be in a second state if a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. The valve may be configured to connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port if the valve is in the second position. The system may be configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting of the third port causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state. A shape of the elastic flange of the valve in the first position may be different than a shape of the elastic flange of the valve in the second position. The elastic flange may bias the valve toward the first position of the valve.

In some aspects, the valve may be made out of a material comprising an elastomer (e.g., silicone).

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for directing fluid flow. The system may include first, second, and third ports, a body comprising a central passage, a valve, and one or more springs. The first port may be configured to be coupled to a first channel. The second port may be configured to be coupled to a second channel. The third port may be configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel. The third port may include a female fitting. The central passage may connect the first port, the second port, and the third port. The valve may include a member. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The valve may be configured to block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port if the valve is in the first position. The system may be configured to be in a second state in which a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. The valve may be configured to connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port if the valve is in the second position. The system may be configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting of the third port causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state. The one or more springs may bias the valve toward the first position of the valve. The one or more springs may be positioned such that the one or more springs are isolated from the fluid flow in the system.

In some aspects, the system may further include one or more spring guides for positioning the one or more springs. In some aspects, the system may further include one or more separators, and each of the one or more separators may be positioned between one of the one or more springs and the member of the valve. In some aspects, the valve may include a flange including first and second surfaces, the first surface of the flange may face the third port, the second surface of the flange may face away from the third port, and the second surface of the flange may engage the one or more springs.

In some aspects, the member may include a slant lower surface that defines a lower boundary of the member, and the slant lower surface may be configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitions from the first state to the second state.

In some aspects, the female fitting of the third port may have an internal surface and an external surface, and the external surface of the female fitting may include a thread configured to engage a Luer lock.

In some aspects, the valve may include a stem, and a top of the stem may extend into the third port in a direction away from the central passage if the valve is in the first position. In some aspects, if the valve is in the second position, the top of the stem is below a thread on an external surface of the female fitting that is configured to engage a Luer lock in a direction toward the central passage. In some aspects, the valve may further include a flange, and the stem may extend from the flange.

In some aspects, the central passage may have a length extending between the first port and the second port, the central passage may have a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, and the cross-section may be rectangular. In some aspects, the central passage may have a length extending between the first port and the second port, the central passage may have a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, and the cross-section may be circular. In some aspects, the third port may include a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

In some aspects, the member of the valve may include a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system may be configured such that, if the system is in the second state, fluid flows from the first port, into the first opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the second opening of the member, and out of the third port. In some aspects, the member of the valve may include a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system may be configured such that, if the system is in the second state, fluid flows from the third port, into the second opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the first opening of the member, and out of the first port.

In some aspects, the valve may be a valve assembly comprising multiple components coupled together. In some aspects, the multiple components may include the member and a stem, and a top of the stem may extend into the third port in a direction away from the central passage if the valve is in the first position. In some aspects, the valve may be manufactured as a single piece.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for directing fluid flow using a system including a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, and a valve including a member. In some aspects, the method may include: connecting the first port to a first channel; connecting the second port to a second channel; and connecting the third port to a device defining a third channel, the third port comprising a female fitting. The first port, the second port, and the third port may be connected to each other via the central passage. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The system may be configured to be in a second state if the male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. Connecting the third port to the third channel may include fully inserting the male fitting of the device into the female fitting of the third port. Connecting the third port to the third channel causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state. In the first position, the valve may block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port. In the second position, the valve may connect the first fluid path and blocks a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port. The member of the valve may include a slant lower surface, the slant lower surface may define a lower boundary of the member. Transitioning from the first state to the second state may include the slant lower surface pushing a substance in the fluid from the central passage to the second port.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for directing fluid flow using a system including a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, and a valve including a member and an elastic flange. The method may include: connecting the first port to a first channel; connecting the second port to a second channel; and connecting the third port to a device defining a third channel. The third port may include a female fitting. The first port, the second port, and the third port may be connected to each other via the central passage. A periphery of the elastic flange may be fixed to the body. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The system may be configured to be in a second state if a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. Connecting the third port to the third channel may include fully inserting the male fitting of the device into the female fitting of the third port. Connecting the third port to the third channel may cause the system to transition from the first state to the second state. In the first position, the valve may block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port. In the second position, the valve may connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port. A shape of the elastic flange of the valve in the first position may be different than a shape of the elastic flange of the valve in the second position. The elastic flange may bias the valve toward the first position of the valve.

In some aspects, the valve may be made out of a material comprising an elastomer (e.g., silicone).

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for directing fluid flow using a system comprising a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, a valve including a member, and one or more springs. The method may include: connecting the first port to a first channel; connecting the second port to a second channel; and connecting the third port to a device defining a third channel. The third port may include a female fitting. The first port, the second port, and the third port may be connected to each other via the central passage. The system may be configured to be in a first state if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state. The system may be configured to be in a second state if the male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port. The valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state. Connecting the third port to the third channel may include fully inserting the male fitting of the device into the female fitting of the third port. Connecting the third port to the third channel causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state. In the first position, the valve blocks a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port. In the second position, the valve may connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port. The one or more springs may bias the valve toward the first position. The one or more springs may be positioned such that the one or more springs are isolated from the fluid flow in the system.

In some aspects, the system may further include one or more spring guides for positioning the one or more springs. In some aspects, the system may further include one or more separators, and each of the one or more separators may be positioned between one of the one or more springs and the member of the valve. In some aspects, the valve may include a flange including first and second surfaces, the first surface of the flange may face the third port, the second surface of the flange may face away from the third port, and the second surface of the flange may engage the one or more springs.

In some aspects, the member may include a slant lower surface that defines a lower boundary of the member, and the slant lower surface may be configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitions from the first state to the second state.

In some aspects, the female fitting of the third port may have an internal surface and an external surface, and the external surface of the female fitting may include a thread configured to engage a Luer lock.

In some aspects, the valve may include a stem, and a top of the stem may extend into the third port in a direction away from the central passage if the valve is in the first position. In some aspects, if the valve is in the second position, the top of the stem is below a thread on an external surface of the female fitting that is configured to engage a Luer lock in a direction toward the central passage. In some aspects, the valve may further include a flange, and the stem may extend from the flange.

In some aspects, the central passage may have a length extending between the first port and the second port, the central passage may have a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, and the cross-section may be rectangular. In some aspects, the central passage may have a length extending between the first port and the second port, the central passage may have a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, and the cross-section may be circular. In some aspects, the third port may include a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

In some aspects, the member of the valve may include a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system may be configured such that, if the system is in the second state, fluid flows from the first port, into the first opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the second opening of the member, and out of the third port. In some aspects, the member of the valve may include a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system may be configured such that, if the system is in the second state, fluid flows from the third port, into the second opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the first opening of the member, and out of the first port.

In some aspects, the valve may be a valve assembly comprising multiple components coupled together. In some aspects, the multiple components may include the member and a stem, and a top of the stem may extend into the third port in a direction away from the central passage if the valve is in the first position. In some aspects, the valve may be manufactured as a single piece.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of directing a fluid between a subject and a container using a system of any of the above aspects. The method may include: connecting the first port to the subject via the first channel; connecting the second port to a container via the second channel; with the system in the first state: using the system to flow fluid from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the container via the second port, or using the system to flow fluid from the container to the central passage via the second port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port.

In some aspects, the method includes setting the system to the second state, and setting the system to the second state includes connecting the third port to the device defining the third channel via the third port. In some aspects, the method includes, with the system in the second state: using the system to flow fluid from the device to the central passage via the third port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port, or using the system to flow fluid from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the device via the third port.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of directing a fluid between a subject and a device using a system of any of the aspects above. The method may include: connecting the first port to the subject via the first channel; and setting the system to the second state. Setting the system to the second state may include connecting the third port to the device defining the third channel via the third port. The method may include, with the system in the second state: using the system to flow fluid from the device to the central passage via the third port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port, or using the system to flow fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the device via the third port.

In some aspects, the first port may be connected to a bladder of the subject via the first channel. In some aspects, the fluid from the subject may include a bodily fluid. In some aspects, the bodily fluid comprises urine. In some aspects, the fluid to the subject may include nutrition or a therapeutic or diagnostic agent.

Further variations encompassed within the systems and methods are described in the detailed description of the invention below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be embodied in a variety of forms, the following description and accompanying drawings are merely intended to disclose some of these forms as specific examples of the subject matter. Accordingly, the subject matter of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the forms or aspects so described and illustrated.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides systems and methods for controlling the direction of a fluid flow, e.g., from one container to another container, from a container to a subject, or from a subject to a container. In general, the systems may allow a single action to engage the systems, and/or easy and accurate selection of the channel to direct fluid flow in a desired direction. In some aspects, the systems may transition between different states or operation modes without the need of disconnecting the systems from any channel connected thereto. In some aspects, the systems may be configured to prevent debris or clots from hindering the operation of the systems, or contaminating the fluid or sample passing through the systems. In some aspects, the systems may include one or a set of springs that are not exposed to the fluid flow in the systems to avoid cross-contamination between the spring(s) and the fluid. In some alternative aspects, instead of one or more springs, the systems may include an elastic flange, and a periphery of the elastic flange may be fixed to a body of the system.

FIG.1shows an exemplary system100for directing fluid flow. As used herein, the term ‘fluid’ may include both liquids and gases. The system100may include a first port102, a second port104, and a third port106. The first port102may be configured to be coupled to a first channel. The second port104may be configured to be coupled to a second channel. The third port106may be configured to be coupled to a third channel. Each of the first, second, third channels may be fluidically connected to a container or a subject. For example, the first port102may be coupled to a first channel, such as a catheter, that extends to a portion of a patient's body. The second port104may be coupled to a second channel, such as a drainage tube, which may receive fluid from a subject's body. The fluid from the subject's body may be a bodily fluid such as, for example and without limitation, urine, amniotic fluid, aqueous humour, vitreous humour, bile, blood, blood serum, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid, cerumen (earwax), chyle, chyme, endolymph, perilymph, exudates, feces, male ejaculate, female secretions, gastric acid, gastric juice, lymph, mucus (including nasal drainage and phlegm), pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, pleural fluid, pus, rheum, saliva, sebum (skin oil), semen, sputum, synovial fluid, sweat, tears, vaginal secretion, vomit, or other bodily fluid, or a mixture thereof. The third port106may be coupled to a third channel, e.g., defined by a device, such as a syringe or another fluid delivery device such as a feeding tube or an IV bag with a connector, which may selectively administer or collect fluids. The system may include a body101disposed between the first port102, the second port104, and the third port106.

FIG.2shows a cross-sectional view of system100. The system100may include a valve, which may include a member110and a stem118. The body101of the system100may include a central passage108, which may connect the first port102, the second port104, and the third port106such that fluid may flow therebetween. The system100may define a first fluid path between the first port102and the third port106. The system100may further define a second fluid path between the first port102and the second port104. As described herein, the system100may selectively transition between a first state (shown inFIG.2) in which the valve in a first position blocks the first fluid path defined between the first port102and the third port106, and a second state (shown inFIG.3) in which the valve in a second position blocks the second fluid path defined between the first port102and the second port104. In some aspects, this transition may occur when a male fitting of a device (e.g., a syringe) is inserted into a female fitting114of the third port106. The transition may be caused manually or automatically.

The third port106may include a female fitting114, which may be sized and shaped to receive a male fitting of a device to which the third port106may be coupled. In some aspects, the female fitting114may be a female fitting of a sealing taper. In some aspects, the male fitting of the device may be a male fitting of a sealing taper. In some aspects, the male fitting of the device may be a male fitting of a syringe. In some aspects, the third port may include a thread116. The thread116may be configured to engage a complementary thread on a device (e.g., a syringe). For example, the female fitting114and thread116may together define a female portion of a sealing lock, which may be configured to engage a male portion of a Luer lock of a device.

The third port106may include a first portion120with a first diameter and a second portion122with a second diameter greater than the first diameter. In some aspects, the first portion120may have a diameter sized to engage a male fitting of a sealing taper. A shoulder of third port106may be defined at a transition from the first portion120and the second portion122. In some aspects, the third port106may be configured to connect with a syringe. For example, the first portion120may have a diameter seized to engage a male fitting of a syringe. e.g., a male portion of a Luer lock of the syringe.

By inserting a male fitting of a device into the female fitting114of the third port106, the system may be caused to transition to a second state, which is shown inFIG.3. Specifically, the male fitting may press the member110downwardly (in the orientation shown inFIGS.2and3) so that the member110extends at least partially into or further into the central passage108. This may cause the member110to block the second flow path between the first port102and the second port104. It may also cause an opening126of the member110to align with a passage through the first port102such that fluid may flow between the first port102and a channel124defined within the member110. To ensure alignment, the member110and body101may include complementary grooves, fittings, or other alignment arrangements, that may run vertically and ensure that opening126aligns properly with the channel of port102when the system100is in the second state (shown inFIG.3).

In some aspects, a releasable locking member may be provided to releasably maintain the system in the second state in the event that the male fitting of the device is inadvertently detached from the female fitting114of the second port. So arranged, the system100may transition from the second state to the first state when the male fitting is removed and the locking mechanism is released. The member110may be arranged such that when the system100is in the second state, fluid may flow from the first port102, the opening126on the side of the member110, the openings127aand127bon the upper side of the member110, and out of the third port106. Fluid may likewise flow through the same components in the opposite direction (from the third port106, openings127aand127bon the upper side of the member110, the opening126on the side of the member110, and out of the first port102). Exemplary flow directions are shown inFIGS.7and8.

The dimensions and positions of the member110and body101may be selected such that fully inserting a male fitting of a standardized size (e.g., a Luer taper) into the female fitting114causes (e.g., automatically) the valve to transition from its first position in the first state to its second position in the second state, thereby switching the system's open path from the second fluid path (between the first port102and the second port104) to the first fluid path (between the first port102and the third port106).

Removing the male fitting from the female fitting108may cause the system100to transition (e.g., automatically) from the second state to the first state. For example, the biasing force of spring may cause the valve (e.g., the member110of the valve) to return from the second position to the first position when the male fitting of the device is removed from female fitting108. The configurations of the springs and related parts in system100may be those shown inFIGS.9A-17B. A spring may be an elastic mechanical object that stores mechanical energy. Examples of the springs include flat springs fixed at one or both end (e.g., cantilever springs), coil springs (e.g., helical springs, tension springs, compression springs, hollow tubing springs), arc springs, volute springs, balance springs, leaf springs, v-springs, Belleville washers, constant-force springs, gas springs, main springs, negator springs, spring washers, torsion springs, wave springs, and a spring-like device (e.g., a device that stores elastic potential energy). In one example, the spring may be a coil spring.

In some aspects, the member110may have a slant lower surface112defining the lower boundary of the member110(e.g., in a position opposite the third port106). When the system100transitions from the first state to the second state, the slant lower surface112of the member110is configured to push a substance from the central passage108to the second port104, and out of the system100. The substance may be solids or semi-solids such as debris and/or clots in the central passage108. The debris or clots may be from or derived from a fluid passing through the system100when the system100is in the first state. The slant lower surface112can push the debris and clots out of the system100to ensure that the valve (e.g., the member110of the valve) can be moved down to the second position, which may allow proper alignment of the first port102and an opening (e.g., the opening126) of the member110, such that fluid can flow between the first port102and the third port106without interruption.

FIG.4shows an exemplary method300for directing fluid flow. In some aspects, method300may be performed using a system such as system100, system200, system400, system500, or system600as describe herein. For example, method300may be performed using a system that includes a first port, a second port, a third port, a body including a central passage, and a valve. In some aspects, the third port may include a female fitting. The first port, the second port, and the third port may be connected to each other via the central passage. In step302, the first port may be connected to a first channel. In step304, the second port may be connected to a third channel. In step306, the third port may be connected to a third channel. In some aspects, the step of connecting the third port to the third channel may cause the system to transition from a first state to a second state, as described above with respect toFIGS.2-3and9A-17Band below with respect toFIGS.18C-18J. For example, in the first state, a male fitting of a device defining the third channel may be not inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the valve may block a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port. In the second state, the male fitting of the device defining the third channel may be fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the valve may block a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port. In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.2,5,9A,10A,11A,12A,13A,16A,17A,18C,18D,18G, and18H, the valve is configured to be in a first position if the system is in the first state, and, as shown inFIG.3,7,8,9B,10B,11B,12B,13B,16B,17B,18E,18F,18I, and18J, the valve is configured to be in a second position if the system is in the second state.

In some aspects, the male fitting of the device defining the third channel is a male fitting of a Luer taper. For example, the device defining the third channel may be a syringe having a male fitting of a Luer taper, such that the syringe may easily connect to devices with corresponding female fittings.

In some aspects, the valve may include a member that is at least partially disposed in the third port when the system is in the first state, and the step306of connecting the third port to the third channel may include inserting the male fitting of the device into the female fitting of the third port, thereby causing the member to extend at least partially into or further into the passage (e.g., as described above with respect toFIGS.2-3and9A-17B). In some aspects, the system may be in the first state before the step306of connecting the third port to the third channel. In this state, a spring (or an elastic flange) may bias the member such that the member is at least partially disposed in the third port. In some aspects, the third port may include a first portion having a first diameter sized to engage a male fitting of a sealing taper such as Luer lock, and a second portion having a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter.

In some aspects, the member may include one or more flanges. When the system is in the first state, a first surface of the one or more flanges may engage a shoulder of the third port, and a second surface of the one or more flanges may engage a spring. The spring may bias the member such that the member is at least partially disposed in the third port when the system is in the first state. In some aspects, the system may comprise one or more springs as shown inFIGS.9A to17Bor an elastic flange as shown inFIGS.18C-18J. For examples, the one or more springs or the elastic flange may bias the valve (e.g., a member of the valve) toward a first position of the valve in the first state. In some aspects including one or more springs, the spring(s) may be positioned such that they are not exposed to the fluid flowing through the system. For example, the spring(s) may be completely separated from the fluid flow at any time.

In some aspects, the step306of connecting the third port to the third channel, thereby transitioning the system from the first state to the second state, may cause the member to block the second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port, as described above with respect toFIGS.2-3,9A-17B(and below with respect toFIGS.18C-18J). The system may be configured such that when the system is in the second state, fluid may flow from the first port, into the first opening(s) of the member (e.g., member110,410,510, or610), through the channel (e.g., channel124,424,524, or624) of the member, out of the second opening(s) of the member, and out of the third port (e.g., as shown inFIG.8). In certain examples, when the system is in the second state, fluid may flow in another direction, e.g., from the third port, into the second openings of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the first opening(s) of the member, and out of the first port (e.g., as shown inFIG.7).

The method300may further comprise pushing a substance from the central passage to the second port by the slant lower surface of the member when the system transitions from the first state to the second state. The substance may be solids or semi-solids such as debris and/or clots sin the central passage. The substance (e.g., debris and/or clots) may be pushed out of the system to ensure that the valve (e.g., the member of the valve) can be moved down to the second position, which may allow proper alignment of the first port and an opening (e.g., the opening) of the member, such that fluid can flow between the first port and the third port without interruption. In some examples, the method300may comprise cleaning the system by pushing substances out of the central passage out by the slant lower surface of the member.

An exemplary method of using the system to direct a fluid between a subject and a container may comprise connecting the first port to the subject via the first channel; connecting the second port to a container via the second channel; setting the system to the first state such that: the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the container via the second port, or the fluid flows from the container to the central passage via the second port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port. In some aspects, the first port may be fluidically connected to a subject, such as a cavity, an organ, or a tissue containing a fluid (e.g., the bladder) of the subject.

FIG.5shows an exemplary fluid flow controlled with the method in the system100. In some aspects, the system100may be set to the first state such that the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage108via the first port102and from the central passage108to the container via the second port104.

FIG.6shows an exemplary system200for draining urine from a subject using the system100as described inFIG.5. The system200may comprise a catheter204(e.g., a Foley catheter), a draining port206, a fluid flow control system208, a drainage tubing210, and a urine collecting bag212. The subject bladder202may be fluidically connected with the urine-collecting bag212via the catheter204, the draining port206, and the fluid flow control system208, and the drainage tubing210. AlthoughFIG.6illustrates the fluid flow control system208as part of a urinary system, this is not required, and, in some alternative aspects, the fluid flow control system208may be used as part of different systems (e.g., in a feeding tube and/or infusion system).

In certain aspects, the system100may be set to the first state so that the fluid flows from the container to the central passage108via the second port104and from the central passage108to the subject via the first port102. In some examples, the system100may be set to the first state to direct fluid flow between two containers (e.g., one container coupled to the first port102and the other coupled to the second port104).

Another exemplary method of using the system100to direct a fluid between a subject and a container may comprise connecting the first port102to the subject via the first channel; connecting the third port106to a device128defining the third channel via the third port106; setting the system100to the second state such that: the fluid flows from the device128to the central passage108via the third port106and from the central passage108to the subject via the first port102, or the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage108via the first port102and from the central passage108to the device via the third port106.

FIG.7shows an aspect of using the system100to direct fluid flow from the third port106to the first port102via the central passage108. In this aspect, the system100may be used to administer a fluid from a device128connected to the third port106(e.g., a syringe) to a portion of the subject fluidically connected to the first port102. For example, a solution (e.g., a solution with nutrition and/or a therapeutic and/or diagnostic agent(s)) may be injected to the subject. In some aspects, the method300may further comprise setting the system100to the second state such that the fluid flows from the device128to the central passage108via the third port106and from the central passage108to the subject via the first port102. For example, the fluid may flow from the device128into the third port106, through the openings127aand127bon the top of the member110, the channel124, the opening126on the side of the member110, and to the port102.

FIG.8shows an aspect of the system100in directing fluid flow from the first port102to the third port106via the central passage108. In this application, the system100may be used to withdraw a fluid from a portion of a subject fluidically connected to the first port102to a device128connected to the third port106(e.g., a syringe). For example, a sample (e.g., a bodily fluid) may be withdrawn from the subject via the system100. In some aspects, the method300may further comprise setting the system to the second state such that the fluid flows from subject to the central passage108via the first port102and from the central passage108to the device via the third port106. For example, the fluid may flow from the first port102through the opening126on the side of the member, the channel124, the openings127aand127bon the top of the member110, to the third port106, and then to the device128).

As shown inFIGS.7and8, when the system100is in the second state, substances (e.g., debris and/or clots) in the portion of the central passage108under the member110may be pushed out the system100via the second port104by the slant lower surface112of the member110. In such cases, the valve (e.g., the member110of the valve) may be pushed down to the second position in which openings of the member110and the first port102may be properly aligned to ensure the flow path between the first port102and the third port106is uninterrupted.

FIGS.9A-15show another exemplary system400for controlling fluid flow. In some aspects, system400includes one or a set of springs to control the transition of the system between two states as described below. The spring(s) may be positioned such that they are not exposed to any fluid flow in the system to avoid cross-contamination between the fluid and the spring(s). As shown inFIGS.9A-15, the system400may include a first port402, a second port404, and a third port406. The first port402may be configured to be coupled to a first channel. The second port404may be configured to be coupled to a second channel. The third port406may be configured to be coupled to a third channel. Each of the first, second, and third channels may be fluidically connected to a container or a subject. For example, the first port402may be coupled to a first channel, such as a catheter, that extends to a portion of a patient's body. The second port404may be coupled to a second channel, such as a drainage tube, which may receive fluid from a subject's body. The fluid from the subject's body may be a bodily fluid such as, for example and without limitation, urine, amniotic fluid, aqueous humour, vitreous humour, bile, blood, blood serum, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid, cerumen (earwax), chyle, chyme, endolymph, perilymph, exudates, feces, male ejaculate, female secretions, gastric acid, gastric juice, lymph, mucus (including nasal drainage and phlegm), pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, pleural fluid, pus, rheum, saliva, sebum (skin oil), semen, sputum, synovial fluid, sweat, tears, vaginal secretion, vomit, or other bodily fluid, or a mixture thereof. The third port406may be coupled to a third channel, e.g., defined by a device, such as a syringe or another fluid delivery device such as a feeding tube or an IV bag with a connector, which may selectively administer or collect fluids. The system may include a body401disposed between the first port402, the second port404, and the third port406.

FIGS.9A-13Bshow cross-sectional views of system400. The system400may include a valve, which may include a member410and a stem418. The body401of the system400may include a central passage408, which may connect the first port402, the second port404, and the third port406such that fluid may flow therebetween. The system400may define a first fluid path between the first port402and the third port406. The system400may further define a second fluid path between the first port402and the second port404. As described herein, the system400may selectively transition between a first state (shown inFIGS.9A,10A,11A,12A, and13A) in which the valve is in a first position and blocks the first fluid path defined between the first port402and the third port406, and a second state (shown inFIGS.9B,11B,12B, and13B) in which the valve is in a second position and blocks the second fluid path defined between the first port402and the second port404. In some aspects, this transition may occur when a male fitting of a device (e.g., a syringe) is inserted into a female fitting414of the third port406. The transition may be caused manually or automatically.

The third port406may include a female fitting414, which may be sized and shaped to receive a male fitting of a device to which the third port106may be coupled. In some aspects, the female fitting414may be a female fitting of a sealing taper. In some aspects, the male fitting of the device may be a male fitting of a sealing taper. In some aspects, the male fitting of the device may be a male fitting of a syringe. In some aspects, the third port may include a thread416. The thread416may be configured to engage a complementary thread on a device (e.g., a syringe). For example, the female fitting414and thread416may together define a female portion of a sealing lock, which may be configured to engage a male portion of a Luer lock of a device.

The third port406may include a first portion420with a first diameter and a second portion422with a second diameter greater than the first diameter. In some aspects, the first portion420may have a diameter sized to engage a male fitting of a sealing taper. A shoulder of port406may be defined at a transition from the first portion420and the second portion422. In some aspects, the third port may be configured to connect with a syringe. For example, the first portion420may have a diameter seized to engage a male fitting of a syringe. e.g., a male portion of a Luer lock of the syringe.

By inserting a male fitting of a device into the female fitting414of the third port406, the system may be caused to transition to a second state, which is shown inFIGS.9B,10B,11B,12B, and13B. Specifically, the male fitting may press the member410downwardly (in the orientation shown inFIGS.9A-13B) so that the member410extends at least partially into or further into the central passage408. This may cause the member410to block the second flow path between the first port402and the second port404. It may also cause an opening426of the member410to align with a passage through the first port402such that fluid may flow between the first port402and a channel424defined within the member410. To ensure alignment, the member410and body401may include complementary grooves, fittings, or other alignment arrangements, that may run vertically and ensure that opening426aligns properly with the channel of port402when the system100is in the second state (shown inFIGS.9B,10B,11B,12B, and13B).

In some aspects, a releasable locking member may be provided to releasably maintain the system in the second state in the event that the male fitting of the device is inadvertently detached from the female fitting414of the second port. So arranged, the system400may transition from the second state to the first state when the male fitting is removed and the locking mechanism is released. The member410may be arranged such that when the system400is in the second state, fluid may flow from the first port402, the opening426on the side of the member410, the openings427aand427b(seeFIG.15) on the upper side of the member410, and out of the third port406. Fluid may likewise flow through the same components in the opposite direction (from the third port406, openings427aand427bon the upper side of the member410, the opening426on the side of the member410, and out of the first port102).

The dimensions and positions of the member410and body401may be selected such that fully inserting a male fitting of a standardized size (e.g., a Luer taper) into the female fitting414causes the valve to transition from its first position in the first state to its second position in the second state, thereby switching the system's open path from the second fluid path (between the first port402and the second port104) to the first fluid path (between the first port402and the third port406).

Removing the male fitting from the female fitting408may cause the system400to transition (e.g., automatically) from the second state to the first state. For example, the biasing force of the springs may cause the valve (e.g., the member410of the valve) to return from the second position to the first position when the male fitting of the device is removed from female fitting408.

The configurations of the springs and related parts are shown inFIGS.9A-17B.FIGS.9A and9Bshow a cross-sectional view of the system400. As shown inFIGS.9A and9B, the system400may include spring guides431aand431bfor positioning the set of springs in the body410of the system400. The spring guide may be configured to keep the spring attached to it straight during compression. The system400may further include separators433aand433b, each of which is between a spring and the member410. The separators433aand433bmay separate the springs from fluid flow in the system. Additionally or alternatively, the separators433aand433bmay also guide the alignment of the member410and the central passage408when the system400transitions from the first state to the second state.

FIGS.10A-11Bshow another cross-section of the system400along a plane between the separator433aand the outer wall of the body410. As shown inFIGS.10A and10B, the spring guide431ais located between the separator433aand the outer wall of the body410. In some aspects, the system400may further include a flange432connected with the stem418, and another spring guide434ato position the spring430atogether with the separators433a. The system400may include another set of spring guides (431band another guide attached to the flange432) to secure another spring on the other side of the body410.

FIGS.12A-12Bshow the cross-sectional views inFIGS.10A-10Bwithout showing the separators433aand433b. As shown inFIGS.12A-12B, the spring guides431aand434amay be positioned such that they are not in touch with any fluid flow or the member410. Thus, a spring positioned between the spring guides431aand434amay be completely separated, and not be exposed to, any fluid flow in the system400. In some aspects, the spring may be positioned in the system400with only one or without any of the spring guides431aor434a.

FIGS.13A-13Bshow another cross-sectional view of the system400along a plane crossing the stem as shown in the figures, which shows the flow paths in the system400in the first state (FIG.13A) and the second state (FIG.13B). As shown in the figures, a fluid flowing through the flow paths is not in touch with any spring(s) or spring guide(s).

FIG.14shows the bottom section of the system400. As shown inFIG.14, the central passage408may have two rims435aand435b. In some aspects, the separators433aand433bmay be configured to position between the spring guides431aand435a, and between the spring guide431band the rim435b.

The springs in the system may be made of any suitable materials, e.g., silicone or metal (e.g., titanium). In some examples, the spring may be made of silicone (medical grade silicone).

FIG.15shows the openings in the member of the system400. As shown inFIG.15, the member may include two openings427aand427bon the top of the member and an opening426at the side of the member. In some aspects, when the system is in the second state, the opening426may be aligned with the second port404. In such cases, a fluid may be directed from the third port406into the channel424through the openings427aand427b, and out of the channel424and into the second port404through the opening426. Alternatively, a fluid may be directed from the second port404into the channel424through the opening426, and out of the channel424through the openings427aand427b, and into the third port406.

In the system400, the member410may have a slant lower surface412defining the lower boundary of the member410(e.g., in a position opposite the third port406). When the system400transitions from the first state to the second state, the slant lower surface412of the member410is configured to push a substance from the central passage408to the second port404. The substance may be solids or semi-solids such as debris and/or clots in the central passage408. The debris or clots may be from or derived from a fluid passing through the system400when the system400is in the first state. The slant lower surface412can push the debris and clots out of the system400to ensure that the member410can be moved down from the first position to the second position, which may allow proper alignment of the first port402and an opening (e.g., the opening426) of the member410, such that fluid can flow between the first port402and the third port406without interruption.

The body of the system may be in any suitable shape. In some aspects, when the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section may be rectangular (e.g., as shown inFIGS.9A-13B).

In some aspects, when the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section may be circular, e.g., system500as shown inFIGS.16A-17B. The system500may include a set of springs, each of which is positioned between the outer wall of the body501and the separator533aor533b. The system500may include spring guides similar to431a,431b,434a, and434bin the system400. Alternatively, the system500may not include any spring guide.

In the system500, the member510may have a slant lower surface512defining the lower boundary of the member510(e.g., in a position opposite the third port506). When the system500transitions from the first state to the second state, the slant lower surface512of the member510is configured to push a substance from the central passage508to the second port504. The substance may be solids or semi-solids such as debris and/or clots in the central passage508. The debris or clots may be from or derived from a fluid passing through the system500when the system500is in the first state. The slant lower surface512can push the debris and clots out of the system500to ensure that the valve (e.g., the member510of the valve) can be moved from the first position down to the second position, which may allow proper alignment of the first port502and an opening of the member510, such that fluid can flow between the first port502and the third port506without interruption.

FIGS.18A-18Jillustrate a system600for directing fluid flow according to some aspects. In some aspects, the system600may include a first port602, a second port604, a third port606, a body601including a central passage608, and a valve. In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18C-18F, the valve of the system600may be a flip valve. In some alternative aspects, as shown inFIGS.18G-18J, the valve of the system600may be a hammock valve. In some aspects, the first port602may be configured to be coupled to a first channel, the second port604may be configured to be coupled to a second channel, and the third port606may be configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel. In some aspects, the central passage608may connect the first port602, the second port604, and the third port606.

In some aspects, the third port606may include a female fitting614. In some aspects, the female fitting614of the third port606may have an internal surface and an external surface, and the external surface of the female fitting614may include a thread configured to engage, for example and without limitation, a Luer lock.

In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18C-18J, the valve may include a member610, a stem618, and an elastic flange632. In some aspects, the member610may include a slant lower surface612that defines a lower boundary of the member610. In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18C-18J, a periphery (e.g., all or a portion of the periphery) of the elastic flange632may be fixed to the body601.

In some aspects, the system600may be configured to be in a first state (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18C,18D,18G, and18H) if a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting614of the third port606. In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18C,18D,18G, and18H, the valve may be configured to be in a first position if the system600is in the first state. In some aspects, the valve may be configured to block a first fluid path defined between the first port602and the third port606if the valve is in the first position. In this way, the valve may act as a diaphragm.

In some aspects, the system may be configured to be in a second state (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18E,18F,18I, and18J) if a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting614of the third port606. In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18E,18F,18I, and18J, the valve may be configured to be in a second position if the system600is in the second state. In some aspects, the valve may be configured to connect the first fluid path and block a second fluid path defined between the first port602and the second port604if the valve is in the second position. In some aspects, the system600may be configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting614of the third port606causes the system600to transition from the first state to the second state.

In some aspects, a top of the stem618may extend into the third port606in a direction away from the central passage608if the valve is in the first position. In some aspects, if the valve is in the second position, the top of the stem618may be below a thread on an external surface of the female fitting614, which may be configured to engage, for example and without limitation, a Luer lock, in a direction toward the central passage608. In some aspects, the stem618may extend from the elastic flange632.

In some aspects, the member610of the valve may include a channel624, a first opening, and a second opening. In some aspects, the system600may be configured such that, if the system600is in the second state (e.g., as shown inFIGS.16E and16F), fluid flows from the first port602, into the first opening of the member610, through the channel624of the member610, out of the second opening of the member610, and out of the third port606. In some aspects, the system600may be configured such that, if the system600is in the second state, fluid flows from the third port606, into the second opening of the member610, through the channel624of the member610, out of the first opening of the member610, and out of the first port602.

In some aspects, as shown inFIGS.18C-18J, a shape of the elastic flange632of the valve in the first position (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18C,18D,18G, and18H) may be different than a shape of the elastic flange632of the valve in the second position (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18E,18F,18I, and18J). In some aspects, the elastic flange632may bias the valve toward the first position of the valve. In some aspects, the elastic flange632may cause the valve to return from the second position to the first position when the male fitting is removed from the female fitting614of the third port606. In some aspects, the valve may be made out of a material comprising an elastomer such as silicone. However, silicone is not required and, in some alternative aspects, the valve may be made out of a different elastomer material. In some aspects, the elastic flange632may enable the system600to return from the second position to the first position when the male fitting is removed from the female fitting614of the third port606without the use of one or more springs, which may be made of metal, may make a system less safe (e.g., due to corrosion), and/or may make a system more expensive.

In some aspects, the central passage608may have a length extending between the first port602and the second port604, and the central passage608may have a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length. In some aspects, the cross-section may be rectangular. In some alternative aspects, the cross-section may be circular. In some further alternative aspects, the cross-section may have a different shape. In some aspects, the third port606may include a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

In any of the aspects above, the valve may be manufactured as a single piece (e.g., as shown inFIGS.9A-13B,16A-17B, and18C-18J). In some aspects, the single piece may be a single material (e.g., an elastomer such as silicone). In some aspects, the single piece valve may include the member (e.g., member410,510, or610), the stem (e.g., stem418,518, or618), and/or the flange (e.g., flange432,532, or632). In any of the aspects above, the valve may alternatively be a valve assembly comprising multiple components coupled together (e.g., as shown inFIGS.2,3,5,7, and8). In some aspects, the multiple components may include the member (e.g., member110), the stem (e.g., stem118), and/or the flange.

In some aspects, the slant lower surface612may be configured to push a substance from the central passage608to the second port604when the system transitions from the first state (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18C,18D,18G, and18H) to the second state (e.g., as shown inFIGS.18E,18F,18I, and18J). In some examples, the slant lower surface112,412,512, or612may have an slope from 0° to 90°, e.g., from 10° to 80°, from 10° to 15°, from 15° to 20°, from to 25°, from 25° to 30°, from 30° to 35°, from 35° to 40°, from 40° to 45°, from 45° to 50°, from 50° to 55°, from 55° to 60°, from 60° to 65°, from 65° to 70°, from 70° to 75°, or from 75° to 80°. In some examples, the slope may be from 35° to 55°, e.g., from 40° to 50°, from 42° to 48°, or from 44° to 46°. In some examples, the slope may be 55°, 54°, 53°, 52°, 51°, 50°, 49°, 48°, 47°, 46°, 45°, 44°, 43°, 42°, 41°, 40°, 39°, 38°, 37°, 360, 35°.

The slope may be defined by the angle between the lower surface112,412,512, or612and a bottom of the central passage108,408,508, or608.

In some aspects, the system may be configured in other ways to push debris and clots out of the central passage. For example, the bottom of the central passage may be slant such that there is an angle between the lower surface of the member and the bottom of the central passage. In such cases, the lower surface of the member may be slant or level.

The terms “subject,” “individual,” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein to refer to a vertebrate. A subject may be a mammal, such as a human. Examples of mammals include rodents (e.g., rats, mice), rabbits, primates (e.g., human), farm animals (cows), sport animals (e.g., horses), and pets (e.g., dogs, cats).

Various aspects are described hereinafter. It should be noted that the specific aspects are not intended as an exhaustive description or as a limitation to the broader aspects discussed herein. One feature described in conjunction with a particular aspect is not necessarily limited to that aspect and can be practiced with any other aspect(s). Reference throughout this specification to “one aspect”, “an aspect,” “some aspects,” or “an example aspect” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “some aspects,” or “an example aspect” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more aspects. Furthermore, while some aspects described herein include some but not other features included in other aspects, combinations of features of different aspects are meant to be within the scope of the invention. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed aspects can be used in any combination.

The present application also provides aspects and aspects as set forth in the following numbered Statements:

Statement 1. A system for directing fluid flow, the system comprising: a first port configured to be coupled to a first channel; a second port configured to be coupled to a second channel; a third port configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel, the third port comprising a female fitting; a central passage, the central passage connecting the first port, the second port, and the third port; and a valve assembly comprising a member that has a slant lower surface, the slant lower surface defining a lower boundary of the member in a position opposite the third port; wherein: the system has a first state in which a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port, the member of the valve assembly blocking a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port when the system is in the first state; the system has a second state in which a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port, the member of the valve assembly connecting the first fluid path and blocking a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port when the system is in the second state, and the system is configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting of the third port causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state, and the slant lower surface of the member of the valve assembly is configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitioning from the first state to the second state.

Statement 2. A system for directing fluid flow, the system comprising: a first port configured to be coupled to a first channel; a second port configured to be coupled to a second channel; a third port configured to be coupled to a device defining a third channel, the third port comprising a female fitting; a central passage, the central passage connecting the first port, the second port, and the third port; a valve assembly comprising a member; and one or more springs; wherein: the system has a first state in which a male fitting of the device is not inserted in the female fitting of the third port, the member of the valve assembly blocking a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port when the system is in the first state; the system has a second state in which a male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port, the member of the valve assembly connecting the first fluid path and blocking a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port when the system is in the second state, and the system is configured such that inserting a male fitting into the female fitting of the third port causes the system to transition from the first state to the second state, and the one or more springs biases the member toward a position of the member in the first state, and the one or more springs is positioned such that the one or more springs is isolated from the fluid flow in the system.

Statement 3. The system of Statement 2, wherein the valve assembly comprises a member that has a slant lower surface, the slant lower surface defines a lower boundary of the member in a position opposite the third port, and the slant lower surface is configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitioning from the first state to the second state.

Statement 4. The system of Statement 2 or 3, further comprising one or more spring guides for positioning the one or more springs.

Statement 5. The system of Statement 2, 3, or 4, further comprising one or more separators, each separator positioned between one of the one or more springs and the member.

Statement 6. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 5, wherein the female fitting of the third port has an internal surface and an external surface, and the external surface of the female fitting comprises a thread configured to engage a Luer lock.

Statement 7. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 6, further comprising a stem coupled to the member of the valve assembly and disposed at least partially within the third port, wherein a top of the stem extends beyond the third port in a direction away from the central passage when the system is in the first stage.

Statement 8. The system of Statement 7, wherein, when the system is in the second state, the top of the stem is below the thread that is configured to engage the Luer lock in a direction toward the central passage.

Statement 9. The system of Statement 7 or 8, wherein the stem is coupled to a flange, and wherein, when the system is in the first state, a first surface of the flange engages a shoulder of the third port, and a second surface of the flange engages the spring.

Statement 10. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 9, wherein the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section being rectangular.

Statement 11. The system any one or combination of Statements 1 to 9, wherein the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section being circular.

Statement 12. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 11, wherein the third port comprises a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

Statement 13. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 12, wherein the member of the valve assembly comprises a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system is configured such that when the system is in the second state, the fluid flows from the first port, into the first opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the second opening of the member, and out of the third port.

Statement 14. The system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 13, wherein the member of the valve assembly comprises a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system is configured such that when the system is in the second state, the fluid flows from the third port, into the second opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the first opening of the member, and out of the first port.

Statement 15. A method for directing fluid flow using a system comprising a first port, a second port, a third port, a central passage, and a valve assembly comprising a member, the method comprising: connecting the first port to a first channel; connecting the second port to a second channel; and connecting the third port to a device defining a third channel, the third port comprising a female fitting, wherein the first port, the second port, and the third port are connected to each other via the central passage; wherein: connecting the third port to the third channel causes the system to transition from a first state to a second state; in the first state, a male fitting of the device is not is inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the valve assembly comprises a member that blocks a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port; and in the second state, the male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the member of the valve assembly connects the first fluid path and blocks a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port, and the member of the valve assembly has a slant lower surface, the slant lower surface defining a lower boundary of the member in a position opposite the third port and configured to push a substance in the fluid from the central passage to the second port when the system transitions from the first state the second state.

Statement 16. A method for directing fluid flow using a system comprising a first port, a second port, a third port, a central passage, a valve assembly comprising a member, and one or more springs, the method comprising: connecting the first port to a first channel; connecting the second port to a second channel; and connecting the third port to a device defining a third channel, the third port comprising a female fitting, wherein the first port, the second port, and the third port are connected to each other via the central passage; wherein: connecting the third port to the third channel causes the system to transition from a first state to a second state; in the first state, a male fitting of the device is not is inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the valve assembly comprises a member that blocks a first fluid path defined between the first port and the third port; and in the second state, the male fitting of the device is fully inserted in the female fitting of the third port, and the member of the valve assembly connects the first fluid path and blocks a second fluid path defined between the first port and the second port, and the one or more springs biases the member toward a position of the member in the first state, and the one or more springs is positioned such that the one or more springs is isolated from the fluid flow in the system.

Statement 17. The method of Statement 16, wherein the member that has a slant lower surface, the slant lower surface defines a lower boundary of the member in a position opposite the third port, and the slant lower surface is configured to push a substance from the central passage to the second port when the system transitioning from the first state to the second state.

Statement 18. The method of Statement 16 or 17, wherein the system further comprises one or more spring guides for positioning the one or more springs.

Statement 19. The method of Statement 16, 17, or 18, wherein the system further comprises one or more separators, each separator positioned between one of the one or more springs and the member.

Statement 20. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 19, wherein the female fitting of the third port has an internal surface and an external surface, and the external surface of the female fitting comprises a thread configured to engage a Luer lock.

Statement 21. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 20, wherein the system further comprises a stem coupled to the member of the valve assembly and disposed at least partially within the third port, and a top of the stem extends beyond the third port in a direction away from the central passage when the system is in the first stage.

Statement 22. The method of Statement 21, wherein, when the system is in the second state, the top of the stem is below the thread configured to engage the Luer lock in a direction toward the central passage.

Statement 23. The method of Statement 21, wherein the stem is coupled to a flange, and wherein when the system is in the first state, a first surface of the flange engages a shoulder of the third port, and a second surface of the flange engages the spring.

Statement 24. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 23, wherein the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section being rectangular.

Statement 25. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 23, wherein the central passage has a length extending between the first port and the second port, and the central passage has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the length, the cross-section being circular.

Statement 26. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 25, wherein the third port comprises a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

Statement 27. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 26, wherein the member of the valve assembly comprises a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system is configured such that when the system is in the second state, the fluid flows from the first port, into the first opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the second opening of the member, and out of the third port.

Statement 28. The method of any one or combination of Statements 15 to 27, wherein the member of the valve assembly comprises a channel, a first opening, and a second opening, and the system is configured such that when the system is in the second state, the fluid flows from the third port, into the second opening of the member, through the channel of the member, out of the first opening of the member, and out of the first port.

Statement 29. A method of directing a fluid between a subject and a container using the system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 14, the method of comprising: connecting the first port to the subject via the first channel; connecting the second port to a container via the second channel; setting the system to the first state such that: the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the container via the second port, or the fluid flows from the container to the central passage via the second port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port.

Statement 30. The method of Statement 29, comprising setting the system to the first state such that the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the container via the second port.

Statement 31. The method of Statement 29, comprising setting the system to the first state so that the fluid flows from the container to the central passage via the second port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port.

Statement 32. A method of directing a fluid between a subject and a device using the system of any one or combination of Statements 1 to 14, the method of comprising connecting the first port to the subject via the first channel; connecting the third port to the device defining the third channel via the third port; setting the system to the second state such that: the fluid flows from the device to the central passage via the third port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port, or the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the device via the third port.

Statement 33. The method of Statement 32, comprising setting the system to the second state such that the fluid flows from the device to the central passage via the third port and from the central passage to the subject via the first port.

Statement 34. The method of Statement 32, comprising setting the system to the second state such that the fluid flows from the subject to the central passage via the first port and from the central passage to the device via the third port.

Statement 35. The method of any one of Statements 29 to 34, wherein the first port is connected to a bladder of the subject via the first channel.

Statement 36. The method of Statement 30 or 34, wherein the fluid comprises a bodily fluid.

Statement 37. The method of Statement 36, wherein the bodily fluid comprises urine.

Statement 38. The method of Statement 31 or 33, wherein the fluid comprises a therapeutic or diagnostic agent.

While the subject matter of this disclosure has been described and shown in considerable detail with reference to certain illustrative aspects, including various combinations and sub-combinations of features, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other aspects and variations and modifications thereof as encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the descriptions of such aspects, combinations, and sub-combinations is not intended to convey that the claimed subject matter requires features or combinations of features other than those expressly recited in the claims. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure is intended to include all modifications and variations encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following appended claims.