Abstract:
Systems for managing pressure in a fluid reservoir chamber of a fluid infusion device are provided. For example, a fluid infusion device is provided. The fluid infusion device comprises a housing defining a reservoir chamber for receiving a fluid reservoir. The fluid infusion device also comprises a drive system contained within the housing for dispensing fluid from the fluid reservoir. The fluid infusion device comprises a pressure management system at least partially defined in the reservoir chamber to manage air pressure in the reservoir chamber.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally to fluid infusion devices for delivering a medication fluid to the body of a user. More particularly, embodiments of the subject matter relate to systems for managing pressure in a fluid reservoir chamber of a fluid infusion device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Certain diseases or conditions may be treated, according to modern medical techniques, by delivering a medication or other substance to the body of a user, either in a continuous manner or at particular times or time intervals within an overall time period. For example, diabetes is commonly treated by delivering defined amounts of insulin to the user at appropriate times. Some common modes of providing insulin therapy to a user include delivery of insulin through manually operated syringes and insulin pens. Other modern systems employ programmable fluid infusion devices (e.g., insulin pumps) to deliver controlled amounts of insulin to a user. 
     A fluid infusion device suitable for use as an insulin pump may be realized as an external device or an implantable device, which is surgically implanted into the body of the user. External fluid infusion devices include devices designed for use in a generally stationary location (for example, in a hospital or clinic), and devices configured for ambulatory or portable use (to be carried by a user). External fluid infusion devices may establish a fluid flow path from a fluid reservoir to the patient via, for example, a suitable hollow tubing. Generally, in order to advance fluid from the fluid reservoir, a pressure is applied to the fluid to direct the fluid out of the reservoir and through the hollow tubing. 
     Accordingly, it is desirable to provide systems for managing pressure in a fluid reservoir chamber of a fluid infusion device. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical field and background. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment a fluid infusion device is provided. The fluid infusion device comprises a housing defining a reservoir chamber for receiving a fluid reservoir. The fluid infusion device also comprises a drive system contained within the housing for dispensing fluid from the fluid reservoir. The fluid infusion device comprises a pressure management system at least partially defined in the reservoir chamber to manage air pressure in the reservoir chamber. 
     According to one embodiment, a fluid infusion device is provided. The fluid infusion device comprises a housing defining a reservoir chamber having a wall and a fluid reservoir receivable within the reservoir chamber. The fluid infusion device also comprises a drive system contained within the housing for dispensing fluid from the fluid reservoir. The fluid infusion device comprises a pressure management system at least partially defined in the reservoir chamber to manage air pressure in the reservoir chamber. The pressure management system includes a valve coupled to the wall of the reservoir chamber. 
     An insulin infusion device is also provided according to one embodiment. The insulin infusion device comprises a housing defining a reservoir chamber having a wall and a fluid reservoir received within the reservoir chamber. The insulin infusion device also comprises a connector body coupled to the housing and the fluid reservoir to define a fluid path from the housing. The connector body includes one or more vents to vent air from the reservoir chamber. The insulin infusion device comprises a drive system contained within the housing and coupled to the fluid reservoir to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir. The insulin infusion device also comprises a pressure management system at least partially defined in the wall of the reservoir chamber to manage air pressure in the reservoir chamber. 
     This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more complete understanding of the subject matter may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in conjunction with the following figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar elements throughout the figures. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fluid infusion device according to various teachings of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 1A  is a top view of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 2  is cross-sectional view of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a portion of a drive system of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1  according to an exemplary embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a portion of a drive system of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1  according to an exemplary embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a portion of a drive system of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1  according to an exemplary embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a detail view taken from  FIG. 2  of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a detail view taken from  FIG. 6  of the exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a detail cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector body of the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a first position; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a second position; 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a first position; 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a second position; 
         FIG. 17  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a first position; and 
         FIG. 18  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure management system for use with the fluid infusion device of  FIG. 1 , in which the pressure management system is in a second position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the application and uses of such embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as exemplary is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. 
     Certain terminology may be used in the following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” could be used to refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “side”, “outboard”, and “inboard” could be used to describe the orientation and/or location of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second”, and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. 
     The following description relates to a fluid infusion device of the type used to treat a medical condition of a user. The infusion device can be used for infusing fluid into the body of a user. The non-limiting examples described below relate to a medical device used to treat diabetes (more specifically, an insulin pump), although embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not so limited. Accordingly, the infused medication fluid is insulin in certain embodiments. In alternative embodiments, however, many other fluids may be administered through infusion such as, but not limited to, disease treatments, drugs to treat pulmonary hypertension, iron chelation drugs, pain medications, anti-cancer treatments, medications, vitamins, hormones, or the like. For the sake of brevity, conventional features and characteristics related to infusion system operation, insulin pump and/or infusion set operation, fluid reservoirs, and fluid syringes may not be described in detail here. Examples of infusion pumps and/or related pump drive systems used to administer insulin and other medications may be of the type described in, but not limited to: U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2009/0299290 and 2008/0269687; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,562,751; 4,678,408; 4,685,903; 5,080,653; 5,505,709; 5,097,122; 6,485,465; 6,554,798; 6,558,351; 6,659,980; 6,752,787; 6,817,990; 6,932,584; 7,621,893; 7,828,764; and 7,905,868; which are each incorporated by reference herein. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fluid infusion device  100 , and  FIG. 1A  is a top view of the fluid infusion device  100 . The fluid infusion device  100  is designed to be carried or worn by the patient. The fluid infusion device  100  may leverage a number of conventional features, components, elements, and characteristics of existing fluid infusion devices. For example, the fluid infusion device  100  may incorporate some of the features, components, elements, and/or characteristics described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,485,465 and 7,621,893, the relevant content of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , the fluid infusion device  100  includes a user interface  102  and a display  104  coupled to a housing  106 . The user interface  102  includes one or more user input devices, such as buttons, which can be activated by the user. The user interface  102  can be used to administer a bolus of insulin, to change therapy settings, to change user preferences, to select display features, and the like. Although not required, the illustrated embodiment of the fluid infusion device  100  includes the display  104 . The display  104  can be used to present various types of information or data to the user, such as, without limitation: the current glucose level of the patient; the time; a graph or chart of the patient&#39;s glucose level versus time; device status indicators; etc. In some embodiments, the display  104  is realized as a touch screen display element and, therefore, the display  104  also serves as a user interface component. 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100  accommodates a power supply  110 , a controller  112 , a drive system  114 , a seal  116 , a fluid reservoir system  118  and a secondary pressure management system  120 . Generally, the power supply  110 , the controller  112 , the drive system  114  and the seal  116  are accommodated in a pump chamber  106   a  defined by the housing  106 , and the fluid reservoir system  118  is accommodated in a reservoir chamber  106   b  defined by the housing  106 . As will be discussed in greater detail herein, the pressure management system  120  enables air from within the reservoir chamber  106   b  to be vented into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . By venting the air within the reservoir chamber  106   b  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 , the pressure increases within the reservoir chamber  106   b  can be minimized, as will be discussed. 
     The power supply  110  is any suitable device for supplying the fluid infusion device  100  with power, including, but not limited to, a battery. In one example, the power supply  110  can be removable relative to the housing  106 , however, the power supply  110  can be fixed within the housing  106 . The controller  112  is in communication with the user interface  102 , display  104 , power supply  110  and drive system  114 . The controller  112  controls the operation of the fluid infusion device  100  based on patient specific operating parameters. For example, the controller  112  controls the supply of power from the power supply  110  to the drive system  114  to activate the drive system  114  to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 . Further detail regarding the control of the fluid infusion device  100  can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,485,465 and 7,621,893, the relevant content of which was previously incorporated herein by reference. 
     The drive system  114  cooperates with the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense the fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 . In one example, the drive system  114  includes a motor  122 , a gear box  124 , a drive screw  126  and a slide  128 . The motor  122  receives power from the power supply  110 . In one example, the motor  122  is an electric motor. The motor  122  includes an output shaft  130 , which is coupled to the gear box  124 . In one embodiment, the gear box  124  is a reduction gear box. The gear box  124  includes an output shaft  132 , which is coupled to the drive screw  126 . 
     The drive screw  126  includes a generally cylindrical distal portion  134  and a generally cylindrical proximal portion  136 . The distal portion  134  has a diameter, which can be larger than a diameter of the proximal portion  136 . The distal portion  134  includes a plurality of threads  138 . The threads  138  are generally formed about an exterior circumference of the distal portion  134 . The proximal portion  136  is generally unthreaded, and can be sized to be received within a portion of the slide  128 . Thus, the proximal portion  136  can serve to align the drive screw  126  within the slide  128  during assembly, for example. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 2 , the slide  128  is substantially cylindrical and includes a distal slide end  140 , a proximal slide end  142  and a plurality of threads  144 . The distal slide end  140  is adjacent to the motor  122  when the slide  128  is in a first, fully retracted position and the proximal slide end  142  is adjacent to the drive screw  126  when the slide  128  is in the first, fully retracted position. The proximal slide end  142  includes a projection  146  and a shoulder  147 , which cooperate with the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense the fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 . In one example, the projection  146  can have a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of a remainder of the slide  128 . It should be noted that the use of the projection  146  is merely exemplary, as the slide  128  need not include a projection  146  such that the proximal slide end  142  can be flat or planar. The shoulder  147  is defined adjacent to the projection  146  and contacts a portion of the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 , as will be discussed in greater detail herein. 
     The plurality of threads  144  of the slide  128  are formed along an interior surface  128   a  of the slide  128  between the distal slide end  140  and the proximal slide end  142 . Generally, the threads  144  do not extend into the projection  146  of the proximal slide end  142 . The threads  144  are formed so as to threadably engage the threads  138  of the drive screw  126 . Thus, the rotation of the drive screw  126  causes the linear translation of the slide  128 . 
     In this regard, the slide  128  is generally sized such that in a first, retracted position, the motor  122 , the gear box  124  and the drive screw  126  are substantially surrounded by the slide  128 . The slide  128  is movable to a second, fully extended position through the operation of the motor  122 . The slide  128  is also movable to a plurality of positions between the first, retracted position and the second, fully extended position via the operation of the motor  122 . Generally, the operation of the motor  122  rotates the output shaft  130 , which is coupled to the gear box  124 . The gear box  124  reduces the torque output by the motor  122 , and the output shaft  132  of the gear box  124  rotates the drive screw  126 , which moves along the threads  144  formed within the slide  128 . The movement or rotation of the drive screw  126  relative to the slide  128  causes the movement or linear translation of the slide  128  within the housing  106 . The advancement of the slide  128  into a portion of the fluid reservoir system  118  causes the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense fluid. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the slide  128  also includes one or more air conduits  148 , which are defined along an exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128 . Generally, the air conduits  148  are defined so as to be spaced apart along the exterior surface  128   b  from the distal slide end  140  to the proximal slide end  142  and to be spaced apart about a perimeter or circumference of the slide  128 . Thus, the air conduits  148  generally extend along a longitudinal axis L of the slide  128 . In the example of  FIG. 3 , the air conduits  148  comprise cylindrical depressions or dimples defined in the exterior surface  128   b , however, the air conduits  148  can have any desired shape that facilitates air flow out of the fluid reservoir system  118  as will be discussed in greater detail herein. It should also be noted that although the air conduits  148  are illustrated herein as comprising discrete dimples defined in the exterior surface  128   b , the air conduits  148  may be defined about the circumference of the slide  128  if desired. Further, while eight air conduits  148  are illustrated herein, it should be noted that the slide  128  can include any number of air conduits  148 , including a single air conduit  148 . In addition, it should be noted that the spacing and location of the air conduits  148  on the exterior surface  128   b  is merely exemplary, as the air conduits  148  may be defined in the exterior surface  128   b  at any desired location. 
     In one example, with reference to  FIG. 4 , the slide  128  includes one or more air conduits  148   a , which are defined along an exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128 . In this example, the air conduits  148   a  are defined as horizontal slots having a greatest width in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The air conduits  148   a  are spaced apart along the exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128  from the distal slide end  140  to the proximal slide end  142 . It should also be noted that although the air conduits  148   a  are illustrated herein as comprising discrete slots defined in the exterior surface  128   b , the air conduits  148   a  may be defined about the circumference of the slide  128  if desired. In addition, while eight air conduits  148   a  are illustrated herein, it should be noted that the slide  128  can include any number of air conduits  148   a , including a single air conduit  148   a . Further, it should be noted that the spacing and location of the air conduits  148   a  on the exterior surface  128   b  is merely exemplary, as the air conduits  148   a  may be defined in the exterior surface  128   b  at any desired location. 
     In one example, with reference to  FIG. 5 , the slide  128  includes one or more air conduits  148   b , which are defined along an exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128 . In this example, the air conduits  148   b  are defined as vertical slots having a greatest width in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The air conduits  148   b  are spaced apart along the exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128  from the distal slide end  140  to the proximal slide end  142 . It should also be noted that although the air conduits  148   b  are illustrated herein as comprising discrete slots defined in the exterior surface  128   b , the air conduits  148   b  may be defined about the circumference of the slide  128  if desired. In addition, while eight air conduits  148   b  are illustrated herein, it should be noted that the slide  128  can include any number of air conduits  148   b , including a single air conduit  148   b . Further, it should be noted that the spacing and location of the air conduits  148   b  on the exterior surface  128   b  is merely exemplary, as the air conduits  148   b  may be defined in the exterior surface  128   b  at any desired location. 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , the seal  116  is disposed adjacent to the slide  128  and the reservoir chamber  106   b . The seal  116  serves to separate the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  from the reservoir chamber  106   b  to prevent the ingress of fluids to the motor  122 , the gear box  124  and the drive screw  126  of the drive system  114 . Generally, the seal  116  is positioned circumferentially about the slide  128  and defines an opening  150  through which the slide  128  can move. In one example, with reference to  FIG. 6 , the seal  116  cooperates with the slide  128  to define the pressure management system  120 . 
     In this regard, as the slide  128  moves relative to the seal  116  and advances into the fluid reservoir system  118 , one or more of the air conduits  148  are exposed to enable air from the fluid reservoir system  118  to pass through the one or more air conduits  148  into the housing  106 . In other words, with reference to  FIG. 7 , as the opening  150  of the seal  116  is generally sized to be substantially similar to the size of the circumference of the slide  128 , and the air conduits  148  are formed as recesses within the exterior surface  128   b  of the slide  128 , a gap or passage  152  is formed between the seal  116  and the slide  128  when the air conduit  148  is adjacent to the seal  116 . Thus, the cooperation between the seal  116  and the air conduits  148  of the slide  128  serves to vent air from the reservoir chamber  106   b , thereby managing or reducing pressure in the fluid reservoir system  118 . 
     With reference back to  FIG. 2 , the fluid reservoir system  118  is shown. The fluid reservoir system  118  includes a reservoir cap or connector body  154  and a fluid reservoir  156 . The connector body  154  creates a fluid path from the fluid reservoir  156  to the body of the patient. In one exemplary embodiment, the connector body  154  is removably coupled to the housing  106 , through any suitable technique, such as threads, press-fitting, etc. Generally, the connector body  154  is suitably sized and configured to accommodate the replacement of fluid reservoirs  156  (which are typically disposable) as needed. A sealing member, such as an O-ring  157  may be coupled between the connector body  154  and the reservoir chamber  106   b  to prevent the ingress of fluids into the reservoir chamber  106   b  of the housing  106 . 
     In one example, the connector body  154  accommodates the fluid path from the fluid reservoir  156  to a tube  158 . The tube  158  represents the fluid flow path that couples the fluid reservoir  156  to an infusion unit that couples the tube  158  to the patient (not shown). In one example, the tube  158  is coupled to the fluid reservoir  156  via a connector needle  160 , which is coupled to the connector body  154  and pierces a septum  162  associated with the fluid reservoir  156 . It should be noted, however, that any suitable technique could be employed to create a fluid path from the fluid reservoir  156  to the patient, and thus, this embodiment is merely exemplary. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , the connector body  154  may also include one or more vents  164  and a membrane  166 . The one or more vents  164  also enable air to vent out of the reservoir chamber  106   b . In this example, the one or more vents  164  enable air to vent into the environment. The one or more vents  164  act as a primary pressure management system for the fluid infusion device  100 , and thus, the one or more vents  164  and the pressure management system  120  cooperate to manage pressure within the reservoir chamber  106   b . The membrane  166  is generally a hydrophobic membrane, and allows air to pass through the vents  164  while preventing the ingress of fluids, such as water, into the fluid reservoir system  118 . 
     With reference back to  FIG. 2 , the fluid reservoir  156  includes a body or barrel  170  and a stopper  172 . The barrel  170  has a first or distal barrel end  174  and a second or proximal barrel end  176 . Fluid F is retained within the barrel  170  between the distal barrel end  174  and the proximal barrel end  176 . The distal barrel end  174  is positioned adjacent to the slide  128  when the fluid reservoir  156  is assembled in the housing  106 . Generally, the distal barrel end  174  can have an open perimeter or can be circumferentially open such that the slide  128  is receivable within the barrel  170  through the distal barrel end  174 . The proximal barrel end  176  defines a port  176   a , which receives the connector needle  160  to define the fluid path. The proximal barrel end  176  can have any desirable size and shape configured to mate with at least a portion of the connector body  154 . 
     The stopper  172  is disposed within the barrel  170 . The stopper  172  is movable within and relative to the barrel  170  to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir  156 . When the barrel  170  is full of fluid, the stopper  172  is adjacent to the distal barrel end  174 , and the stopper  172  is movable to a position adjacent to the proximal barrel end  176  to empty the fluid from the fluid reservoir  156 . In one example, the stopper  172  is substantially cylindrical, and includes a distal stopper end  178 , a proximal stopper end  180 , at least one friction element  182  and a counterbore  184  defined from the distal stopper end  178  to the proximal stopper end  180 . 
     The distal stopper end  178  is open about a perimeter of the distal stopper end  178 , and thus, is generally circumferentially open. The proximal stopper end  180  is closed about a perimeter of the proximal stopper end  180  and is generally circumferentially closed. The proximal stopper end  180  includes a slightly conical external surface, however, the proximal stopper end  180  can be flat, convex, etc. The at least one friction element  182  is coupled to the stopper  172  about an exterior surface  172   a  of the stopper  172 . In one example, the at least one friction element  182  comprises two friction elements, which include, but are not limited to, O-rings. The friction elements  182  are coupled to circumferential grooves  186  defined in the exterior surface  172   a  of the stopper  172 . 
     The counterbore  184  receives the projection  146  of the slide  128  and the movement of the slide  128  causes the shoulder  147  of the slide  128  to contact and move the stopper  172 . In one example, the counterbore  184  includes threads  188 , however, the projection  146  of the slide  128  is not threadably engaged with the stopper  172 . Thus, the threads  188  illustrated herein are merely exemplary. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 2 , with the housing  106  assembled with the power supply  110 , the controller  112  and the drive system  114 , the fluid reservoir system  118  can be coupled to the housing  106 . In one example, a full fluid reservoir  156  is inserted into the reservoir chamber  106   b  of the housing  106  such that the stopper  172  is adjacent to the projection  146  of the slide  128 . As the drive screw  126  rotates, the slide  128  translates linearly. The advancement of the slide  128  decreases an available volume of the reservoir chamber  106   b , which results in an increase in pressure in the reservoir chamber  106   b.    
     As the pressure increases in the reservoir chamber  106   b , in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, for example, due to an obstruction of one or more of the vents  164 , the pressure is relieved by the pressure management system  120 . In this regard, as the slide  128  moves past the seal  116 , the air conduits  148  enable pressure to be relieved by venting the air out of the reservoir chamber  106   b  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  ( FIG. 2 ). Thus, the pressure management system  120  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  106   b  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  106   b  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  through the air conduits  148 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 9 , a pressure management system  220  is shown. As the pressure management system  220  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  220  will be discussed in detail herein. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  220  is defined in a slide  228  for use with the fluid infusion device  100 . The slide  228  is substantially cylindrical and includes the distal slide end  140 , a proximal slide end  242  and the plurality of threads  144 . The proximal slide end  242  includes a projection  246 , which cooperates with the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense the fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 . In one example, the projection  246  can have a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of a remainder of the slide  228 . 
     The pressure management system  220  is defined on the projection  246  of the slide  228 . In one example, the pressure management system  220  comprises one or more bores  248 , which are defined in and through an uppermost surface  246   a  of the projection  246 . The bores  248  may be defined through the uppermost surface  246   a  in any desired pattern, and in one example, may be defined through the uppermost surface  246   a  so as to be spaced apart from or inward from an outer circumference of the uppermost surface  246   a . In addition, it should be noted that while three bores  248  are illustrated herein, the pressure management system  220  can include any number of bores  248 . The bores  248  can have any desired size or diameter, and the size or diameter may be varied amongst the bores  248  to enable tuning of the pressure management system  220  to the desired air flow rate. Moreover, while the bores  248  are illustrated herein as being cylindrical or with a circular perimeter, the bores  248  can have any desired polygonal shape, such as triangular or pentagonal, for example. It should be noted that the use of the projection  246  is merely exemplary, as the slide  228  need not include the projection  246  such that the proximal slide end  242  can be flat or planar, with the pressure management system  220  defined through the flat or planar end. Further, while the bores  248  are illustrated and described herein as being defined in the slide  228 , the bores  248  may be defined at any desirable location to enable venting of the fluid reservoir  156 , for example, the bores  248  may be defined in and through the seal  116 . Thus, the location of the bores  248  is merely exemplary. 
     As discussed above, with the slide  228  assembled within the fluid infusion device  100 , in order to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir  156 , the drive screw  126  rotates and the slide  228  translates linearly to move the stopper  172  ( FIG. 2 ). The advancement of the slide  228  and the stopper  172  within the fluid reservoir  156  increases the pressure in the reservoir chamber  106   b.    
     As the pressure increases in the reservoir chamber  106   b , in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, for example, due to an obstruction or one or more of the vents  164 , the pressure is relieved by the pressure management system  220 . In this regard, the bores  248  formed in the uppermost surface  246   a  of the slide  228  enable pressure to be relieved by venting the air out of the reservoir chamber  106   b  into the slide  228 , and out of the slide  228  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . Thus, the pressure management system  220  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  106   b  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  106   b  through the bores  248  and into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 10 , a pressure management system  320  is shown. As the pressure management system  320  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  320  will be discussed in detail herein. Further, as the pressure management system  320  can be similar to the pressure management system  220  described with regard to  FIG. 9 , the same reference numerals will be employed to denote the same or similar components. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  320  is defined in a slide  328  for use with the fluid infusion device  100 . The slide  328  is substantially cylindrical and includes the distal slide end  140 , a proximal slide end  342  and the plurality of threads  144 . The proximal slide end  342  includes a projection  346 , which cooperates with the fluid reservoir system  118  to dispense the fluid from the fluid reservoir system  118 . In one example, the projection  346  can have a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of a remainder of the slide  328 . 
     The pressure management system  320  is defined on the projection  346  of the slide  328 . In one example, the pressure management system  320  comprises one or more bores  348  and a membrane  350 . In this example, the projection  346  includes an annular counterbore  352  defined in a proximal most surface  346   a . It should be noted that the use of the projection  346  is merely exemplary, as the slide  328  need not include the projection  346  such that the proximal slide end  342  can be flat or planar, with the annular counterbore  352  defined through the flat or planar end. 
     The bores  348  are defined in and through a surface  352   a  of the annular counterbore  352 . The bores  348  may be defined through the surface  352   a  in any desired pattern, and in one example, may be defined through the surface  352   a  so as to be spaced apart from or inward from a perimeter or circumference of the annular counterbore  352 . In addition, it should be noted that while a single bore  348  is illustrated herein, the pressure management system  320  can include any number of bores  348 . The bore  348  can have any desired size or diameter, and the size or diameter may be varied to enable tuning of the pressure management system  320  to the desired air flow rate. Moreover, while the bore  348  is illustrated herein as being cylindrical or with a circular perimeter, the bore  348  can have any desired polygonal shape, such as triangular or pentagonal, for example. 
     The membrane  350  is coupled to the annular counterbore  352 . In one example, the membrane  350  is coupled to the annular counterbore  352  so as to substantially cover the surface  352   a , and thus, the one or more bores  348 . The membrane  350  is coupled to the annular counterbore  352  through any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding of the membrane  350  to the surface  352   a . Generally, the membrane  350  is hydrophobic, such that air may pass through the membrane, but fluid, such as water, does not. 
     With the slide  328  assembled within the fluid infusion device  100 , in order to dispense fluid from the fluid reservoir  156 , the drive screw  126  rotates, the slide  328  translates linearly. The advancement of the slide  328  decreases the volume of the reservoir chamber  106   b , which may result in an increase in the pressure in the reservoir chamber  106   b . As the pressure increases in the reservoir chamber  106   b , in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, the pressure is relieved by the pressure management system  320 . In this regard, the bore  348  formed in the surface  352   a  of the slide  328  enables pressure to be relieved by venting the air out of the reservoir chamber  106   b  into the slide  328 , and out of the slide  328  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . The membrane  350  enables the air to pass through the bore  348 , but prevents the passage of fluid, such as water, through the bore  348 . Thus, the pressure management system  320  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  106   b  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  106   b  through the bore  348 , while preventing the ingress of fluid, such as water, through the bore  348 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 11 , a pressure management system  420  is shown. As the pressure management system  420  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  420  will be discussed in detail herein. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  420  is defined in a portion of the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100 . For example, the pressure management system  420  is defined in a reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106  that receives the fluid reservoir  156  of the fluid reservoir system  118  ( FIG. 2 ). The pressure management system  420  comprises one or more bores  448 , which are defined in and through a wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106 . The bores  448  may be defined through the wall  422   a  in any desired pattern, and in one example, may be defined through the wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422  such that a centerline C of each bore  448  is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis L 2  of the reservoir chamber  422 . The bores  448  may be arranged such that the bores  448  extend along the longitudinal axis L 2  of the reservoir chamber  422 , however, it should be noted that this arrangement of bores  448  is merely exemplary, as the bores  448  may be arranged offset from each other. A first end  448   a  of each of the bores  448  is in communication with the reservoir chamber  422 . An opposite, second end  448   b  of each of the bores  448  is in communication with the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  to vent the air from the bores  448  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . 
     In addition, it should be noted that while five bores  448  are illustrated herein, the pressure management system  420  can include any number of bores  448 . The bores  448  can have any desired size or diameter, and the size or diameter may be varied amongst the bores  448  to enable tuning of the pressure management system  420  to the desired air flow rate. Moreover, while the bores  448  are illustrated herein as being cylindrical or with a circular perimeter, the bores  448  can have any desired polygonal shape, such as triangular or pentagonal, for example. Further, while the bores  448  are illustrated and described herein as being defined in the wall  422   a , the bores  448  may be defined at any desirable location to within the reservoir chamber  422  to enable venting of the reservoir chamber  422 . Thus, the location of the bores  448  is merely exemplary. 
     With the fluid reservoir  156  received in the reservoir chamber  422 , as the drive screw  126  rotates, a slide  428  translates linearly. As the slide  428  can be substantially similar to the slide  128  but without the one or more air conduits  148 , the slide  428  will not be discussed in great detail herein. The advancement of the slide  428  decreases the volume of the reservoir chamber  422 , which may result in an increase in the pressure in the reservoir chamber  422 . As the pressure increases in the reservoir chamber  422 , in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, the pressure is relieved by the pressure management system  420 . In this regard, the bores  448  formed in the wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106  enable pressure to be relieved by venting the air out of the reservoir chamber  422  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . Thus, the pressure management system  420  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  422  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  422  through the bores  448  and into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 12 , a pressure management system  520  is shown. As the pressure management system  520  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  520  will be discussed in detail herein. Further, as the pressure management system  520  can be similar to the pressure management system  420  described with regard to  FIG. 11 , the same reference numerals will be employed to denote the same or similar components. 
     In the example of  FIG. 12 , the pressure management system  520  is defined in a portion of the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100 . For example, the pressure management system  520  is defined in the reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106  that receives the fluid reservoir  156  of the fluid reservoir system  118  ( FIG. 2 ). The pressure management system  520  comprises the one or more bores  448 , which are defined in and through the wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106  and a membrane  522 . The bores  448  are in communication with the reservoir chamber  422  and the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . Thus, the bores  448  enable air to be vented out of the reservoir chamber  422  through the bores  448  and into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  external from the reservoir chamber  422 . 
     The membrane  522  is coupled to the wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422 . In one example, the membrane  522  is coupled to the wall  422   a  so as to substantially cover the bores  448 . Thus, the membrane  522  in this example is coupled to the wall  422   a  on a side of the wall substantially opposite a side of the wall in contact with the fluid reservoir  156 . The membrane  522  is coupled to the wall  422   a  through any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding. In the example of ultrasonic welding, a weld  524  extends between the membrane  522  and the wall  422   a  about a perimeter of the membrane  522 . Generally, the membrane  522  is hydrophobic, such that air may pass through the membrane, but fluid, such as water, does not. 
     With the fluid reservoir  156  received in the reservoir chamber  422 , as the drive screw  126  rotates, the slide  428  translates linearly. The advancement of the slide  428  decreases the volume of the reservoir chamber  422 , which may result in an increase in the pressure in the reservoir chamber  422 . As the pressure increases in the reservoir chamber  422 , in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, the pressure is relieved by the pressure management system  520 . In this regard, the bores  448  formed in the wall  422   a  of the reservoir chamber  422  of the housing  106  enable pressure to be relieved by venting the air out of the reservoir chamber  422 , through the bores  448 , and into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . The membrane  522  enables the air to pass through the bores  448 , but prevents the passage of fluid, such as water, through the bores  448 . Thus, the pressure management system  520  manages the pressure within the fluid reservoir system  118  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  422  through the bores  448 , while preventing the ingress of fluid, such as water, into the bores  448 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , a pressure management system  620  is shown. As the pressure management system  620  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  620  will be discussed in detail herein. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  620  is defined in a portion of the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100 . For example, the pressure management system  620  is defined in a reservoir chamber  622  of the housing  106  that receives the fluid reservoir  156  of the fluid reservoir system  118  ( FIG. 2 ). The pressure management system  620  comprises an expandable member  624 . 
     In one example, the expandable member  624  is defined as a portion of a wall  622   a  of the reservoir chamber  622 , which has a thickness T, which is less than a thickness T 2  and a thickness T 3  of the remainder of the wall  622   a . The reduced thickness T of the expandable member  624  enables the expandable member  624  to move or flex from a first, relaxed position ( FIG. 13 ) to a second, expanded position ( FIG. 14 ) to relieve pressure in the reservoir chamber  622 . In other words, the expandable member  624  bulges outwardly from the remainder of the reservoir chamber  622 , in a direction substantially opposite the fluid reservoir  156 , to increase an available volume within the reservoir chamber  622 . By increasing the available volume within the reservoir chamber  622 , the pressure in the reservoir chamber  622  from the advancement of the slide  128  in the fluid reservoir  156  is reduced. Generally, the expandable member  624  extends over only a portion of the wall  622   a , however, the expandable member  624  can extend over the entirety of the wall  622   a , if desired. In addition, it should be noted that the expandable member  624  may be composed of the same material as a remainder of the wall  622   a , or may be composed of a different, elastic material, in order to further increase the ability of the expandable member  624  to expand. Thus, the expandable member  624  illustrated herein is merely exemplary. 
     With the fluid reservoir  156  received in the reservoir chamber  622 , as the drive screw  126  rotates, the slide  428  translates linearly. The advancement of the slide  428  decreases the volume of the reservoir chamber  622 , which may result in an increase in the pressure in the reservoir chamber  622 . As the pressure increases, in most instances, the pressure is relieved through the vents  164  of the connector body  154  ( FIG. 8 ). In certain instances, the expandable member  624  moves from the first, relaxed position ( FIG. 13 ) to the second, expanded position ( FIG. 14 ) to increase the volume within the reservoir chamber  622  to relieve the pressure. By increasing the volume within the reservoir chamber  622 , the pressure within the reservoir chamber  622  decreases. Thus, the pressure management system  620  manages the pressure within the fluid reservoir system  118  by increasing the volume within the reservoir chamber  622 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , a pressure management system  720  is shown. As the pressure management system  720  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  720  will be discussed in detail herein. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  720  is coupled to a portion of the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100 . For example, the pressure management system  720  is coupled to a reservoir chamber  722  of the housing  106  that receives the fluid reservoir  156  of the fluid reservoir system  118  ( FIG. 2 ). The pressure management system  720  comprises one or more bores  748  and a valve  750 . 
     The one or more bores  748  are defined in and through a wall  722   a  of the reservoir chamber  722 . The bores  748  may be defined through the wall  722   a  in any desired pattern, and in one example, may be defined through the wall  722   a  of the reservoir chamber  722  such that a centerline of each bore  748  is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L 2  of the reservoir chamber  722 . The bores  748  may be arranged such that the bores  748  extend along the longitudinal axis L 2  of the reservoir chamber  722 , however, it should be noted that this arrangement of bores  748  is merely exemplary, as the bores  748  may be arranged offset from each other. In addition, it should be noted that while two bores  748  are illustrated herein, the pressure management system  720  can include any number of bores  748 . The bores  748  can have any desired size or diameter, and the size or diameter may be varied amongst the bores  748  to enable tuning of the pressure management system  720  to the desired air flow rate. Moreover, while the bores  748  are illustrated herein as being cylindrical or with a circular perimeter, the bores  748  can have any desired polygonal shape, such as triangular or pentagonal, for example. Further, while the bores  748  are illustrated and described herein as being defined in the wall  722   a , the bores  748  may be defined at any desirable location to within the reservoir chamber  722  to enable venting of the reservoir chamber  722 . Thus, the location of the bores  748  is merely exemplary. A first end  748   a  of each of the bores  748  is in communication with the reservoir chamber  722  and an opposite, second end  748   b  of each of the bores  748  is in communication with the valve  750 . 
     The valve  750  includes a valve seat  752 , a valve stem  754  and a valve seal  756 . In one example, the valve  750  comprises a check valve, but the valve  750  can comprise any suitable one-way valve, such as an umbrella valve or duckbill valve. The valve seat  752  is coupled to the wall  722   a  on a side of the wall  722   a  opposite the side of the wall  722   a  that contacts the fluid reservoir  156  when the fluid reservoir  156  is received in the reservoir chamber  722 . The valve seat  752  may be coupled to the wall  722   a  through any suitable technique, such as ultrasonic welding, for example. The valve seat  752  defines one or more bores  758 . Generally, the valve seat  752  defines substantially the same number of bores  758  as the number of bores  748 . Thus, in this example, the valve seat  752  includes two bores  758 . The bores  758  are defined in the valve seat  752  such that a centerline of a respective one of the bores  758  is coaxial with the centerline of a respective one of the bores  748  to enable communication between the bores  758  of the valve seat  752  and the bores  748 . Generally, the second end  748   b  of each of the bores  748  is in communication with the respective one of the bores  758  to define an airflow path. 
     The valve stem  754  is coupled to the wall  722   a . In one example, the valve stem  754  is fixedly coupled to the wall  722   a  such that the valve stem  754  does not interfere with or contact the fluid reservoir  156  when the fluid reservoir  156  is installed in the chamber  722 . Thus, the valve stem  754  may be flush with the side of the wall  722   a  that contacts the fluid reservoir  156 . 
     The valve seal  756  is coupled to the valve stem  754 . The valve seal  756  is sized and shaped to seal the bores  758  of the valve seat  752 . Generally, the valve seal  756  is composed of a resilient material such that the valve seal  756  is movable between a first, closed position ( FIG. 15 ) and a second, opened position ( FIG. 16 ) upon the pressure in the reservoir chamber  722  reaching a predefined pressure threshold. In the first, closed position, the valve seal  756  is sealing against the bores  758  and thereby blocking the airflow path created by the bores  748  and the bores  758  of the valve seat  752 . In the second, opened position, the valve seal  756  is spaced apart from or deflected from the valve seat  752  such that the airflow path created by the bores  748  and bores  758  of the valve seat  752  is opened, allowing venting of air from the reservoir chamber  722  into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . 
     With the fluid reservoir  156  received in the reservoir chamber  722 , as the drive screw  126  rotates, the slide  428  translates linearly. The advancement of the slide  428  decreases the volume of the reservoir chamber  722 , which may result in an increase in the pressure in the reservoir chamber  722 . Once the pressure reaches the predefined pressure threshold, the valve seal  756  moves from the first, closed position ( FIG. 15 ) to the second, opened position ( FIG. 16 ) to open the airflow path created by the bores  748  and bores  758  of the valve seat  752  to vent the reservoir chamber  722 . Once the pressure in the reservoir chamber  722  drops below the predefined pressure threshold, the valve seal  756  moves from the second, opened position ( FIG. 16 ) to the first, closed position ( FIG. 15 ). Thus, the pressure management system  720  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  722  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  722  through the bores  748  and bores  758  once the pressure in the reservoir chamber  722  reaches the predefined pressure threshold. Generally, the predefined pressure threshold is less than a static pressure necessary to move the stopper  172  within the fluid reservoir  156 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , a pressure management system  820  is shown. As the pressure management system  820  can be used with the fluid infusion device  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS. 1-8 , only the pressure management system  820  will be discussed in detail herein. 
     In this example, the pressure management system  820  is coupled to a portion of the housing  106  of the fluid infusion device  100 . For example, the pressure management system  820  is coupled to a chamber  822  of the housing  106  that receives the fluid reservoir  156  of the fluid reservoir system  118  ( FIG. 2 ). The pressure management system  820  comprises one or more bores  848  and a valve  850 . 
     The one or more bores  848  are defined in and through a wall  822   a  of the reservoir chamber  822 . In this example, a single bore  848  is defined through the wall  822   a , however, any number of bores  848  may be defined in the wall  822   a  in any desired pattern. The bore  848  is defined through the wall  822   a  of the reservoir chamber  822  such that a centerline of the bore  848  is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L 2  of the reservoir chamber  822 . The bore  848  can have any desired size or diameter, and while the bore  848  is illustrated herein as being cylindrical or with a circular perimeter, the bore  848  can have any desired polygonal shape, such as triangular or pentagonal, for example. Further, while the bore  848  is illustrated and described herein as being defined in the wall  822   a , the one or more bores  848  may be defined at any desirable location to within the reservoir chamber  822  to enable venting of the reservoir chamber  822 . Thus, the location of the bore  848  is merely exemplary. A first end  848   a  of the bore  848  is in communication with the fluid reservoir  156  when installed in the reservoir chamber  822  and an opposite, second end  848   b  of the bore  848  is in communication with the valve  850 . 
     The valve  850  includes a valve seat  852 , a valve stem  854  and a biasing member  856 . The valve seat  852  is coupled to the wall  822   a  on a side of the wall  822   a  opposite the side of the wall  822   a  that contacts the fluid reservoir  156  when the fluid reservoir  156  is received in the reservoir chamber  822 . The valve seat  852  may be coupled to the wall  822   a  through any suitable technique, such as ultrasonic welding, for example. The valve seat  852  is composed of any suitable material, and in one example, is composed of an elastomeric material. The valve seat  852  defines one or more bores  858 . Generally, the valve seat  852  defines substantially the same number of bores  858  as the number of bores  848 . Thus, in this example, the valve seat  852  includes one bore  858 . The bore  858  is defined in the valve seat  852  such that a centerline of the bore  858  is coaxial with the centerline of the bore  848  to enable communication between the bore  858  of the valve seat  852  and the bore  848 . Generally, the second end  848   b  of the bore  848  is in communication with the bore  858  to define an airflow path. The bore  858  is shaped to receive the valve stem  854 . In one example, a first end  858   a  of the bore  858  has a diameter that is less than a diameter of a second end  858   b  of the bore  858 . Thus, in this example, the bore  858  tapers from the second end  858   b  to the first end  858   a  to conform with the shape of the valve stem  854 . 
     The valve stem  854  is received in the valve seat  852 . In one example, the valve stem  854  is a spherical ball, however, the valve stem  854  can have any desired shape that cooperates with the valve seat  852 . Thus, the valve stem  854  and the valve seat  852  illustrated herein are merely exemplary. The valve stem  854  is received within the valve seat  852  and is movable relative to the valve seat  852  and the wall  822   a . Generally, the valve stem  854  is sized so as to extend outwardly from the valve seat  852  and the wall  822   a , such that a portion of the valve stem  854  extends into the reservoir chamber  822 . By extending into the reservoir chamber  822 , the fluid reservoir  156  contacts the valve stem  854  upon insertion to move the valve stem  854  between a first, closed position ( FIG. 17 ) and a second, opened position ( FIG. 18 ). In the first, closed position, no airflow path exists between the reservoir chamber  822  and the housing  106 . In the second, opened position, an airflow path exists from the reservoir chamber  822 , through the bore  848 , the bore  858  and into the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106 . 
     The biasing member  856  is coupled to the valve stem  854  and the wall  822   a . In one example, the biasing member  856  comprises a leaf spring, which includes a first end  860  and a second end  862 . In this example, the first end  860  contacts the valve stem  854  and biases the valve stem  854  into the first, closed position. The second end  862  is fixedly mounted to the wall  822   a . In this example, the second end  862  includes a bore  862   a  for receipt of a suitable coupling device, such as a mechanical fastener  864 . It should be noted that the biasing member  856  can be coupled to the wall  822   a  through any suitable technique, and thus, the use of the mechanical fastener  864  is merely exemplary. Moreover, it should be noted that nay suitable biasing member could be employed to bias the valve stem  854  into the first, closed position, and thus, the use of a leaf spring is merely exemplary. 
     Upon insertion of the fluid reservoir  156  into the reservoir chamber  822 , the fluid reservoir  156  contacts the valve stem  854  ( FIG. 18 ). As the fluid reservoir  156  is moved into a final position in the reservoir chamber  822 , the force of the insertion of the fluid reservoir  156  in the reservoir chamber  822  overcomes the force of the biasing member  856  and the valve stem  854  moves from the first, closed position ( FIG. 17 ) to the second, opened position ( FIG. 18 ). In the second, opened position, an airflow path between the reservoir chamber  822  and the pump chamber  106   a  of the housing  106  is created, thereby allowing the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  822 . Once the fluid reservoir  156  is removed from the reservoir chamber  822 , the biasing member  856  moves the valve stem  854  from the second, opened position to the first, closed position. Thus, the pressure management system  820  manages the pressure within the reservoir chamber  822  by enabling the venting of air from the reservoir chamber  822  through the bore  848  and bore  858  upon insertion of the fluid reservoir  156 . 
     While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claimed subject matter in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the described embodiment or embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope defined by the claims, which includes known equivalents and foreseeable equivalents at the time of filing this patent application.