Patent Publication Number: US-8974569-B2

Title: Multi-flow filtration system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/384,412, filed Sep. 20, 2010. This application is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/180,493, filed Jul. 11, 2011, which in turn is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/577,188, filed Oct. 11, 2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,976,598 on Jul. 12, 2011, which in turn is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority to PCT application serial number PCT/US2009/060298, filed Oct. 10, 2009, which in turn claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/195,898, filed Oct. 10, 2008. Each of the aforementioned applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention is directed to a filtration system for use in, for example, healthcare applications, and more particularly to a filtration system that includes a filter cartridge assembly having a plurality of distinct fluid flow paths and filter chambers, and still more particularly to, a filtration system that includes a tri-flow filter cartridge assembly and a controller which are adapted and configured for filtering or conditioning three independent fluid sources. 
     2. Background of the Related Art 
     Many applications, such as healthcare, residential, or industrial applications, require a fluid or gas source to be filtered prior to use. For example, in laparoscopic procedures the abdominal cavity of the patient is filled or insufflated with a pressurized fluid, such as carbon dioxide gas, to create what is referred to as pneumoperitoneum. The carbon dioxide gas must be filtered prior to its being supplied to the patient&#39;s abdominal cavity. 
     Still further, many applications require the filtration of more than one fluid source. For example, International Patent Application No. PCT/US07/88017 which was filed on Dec. 18, 2007 and published as WO 2008/077080 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses a system for surgical insufflation and gas recirculation to be used in laparoscopic procedures that utilizes three independent fluid streams, which are filtered during use. FIGS. 14 and 15 of WO 2008/077080, disclose a representative system for surgical insufflation and gas recirculation that includes, among other elements, a control unit in connection with a surgical insufflator and a surgical trocar. In the disclosed system, three fluid conduits connect the trocar to the control unit. A separate filter element is provided in each of the three flow paths extending between the control unit and the trocar. The use of three separate filter elements with three filter housings is cumbersome and not desirable in an operating room setting where space is at a premium. Moreover, although the filter elements appear to be identical, in fact, the size and type of filter cartridge used will vary depending on the desired flow properties and conditioning requirements for each flow path. Therefore, there is a possibility that during maintenance procedures, the filter cartridges could be mixed up and improperly placed in wrong housing and flow path. Additionally, when the filters need to be replaced, which in a laparoscopic procedure will be before each surgery, each filter cartridge must be separately removed from within its housing and replaced, which adds to the scope of the maintenance efforts. 
     There is a need therefore, for a filter cartridge assembly for use in applications such as laparoscopic surgery that is adapted and configured for filtering three independent fluid sources. Additionally, there is also a need for a filtration system that can be used in a surgical environment which is compact and simple to use and maintain. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a filter cartridge assembly that includes, inter alia, an elongated housing that has axially opposed proximal and distal ends and defines an interior cavity and first, second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. 
     The cartridge assembly also includes first, second and third filter elements. The first filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. Lastly, the third filter element is also disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. The first flow path is isolated from the second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flow path. 
     Preferably, the proximal end of the housing includes a connector element. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the connector element includes the first inlet port and the second and third outlet ports. 
     It is envisioned that the housing includes a pair of coaxially positioned peripheral walls. In certain constructions, the peripheral walls of the housing are integrally molded. In alternative constructions, the inner peripheral wall is formed using a cylindrical inner housing element positioned within the interior cavity of the housing. It is envisioned that in such constructions a portion of the second and third flow paths extend in a gap defined between the peripheral walls of the housing. 
     It is presently preferred that the first filter element is a radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the first flow path by traversing in a radially inward direction through the first filter element. Moreover, it is also envisioned that the second filter element is radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path by traversing in a radially outward direction through the second filter element. Lastly, in preferred embodiments of the present invention, the third filter element is a disc filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path by traversing axially through the third filter element. 
     In certain constructions of the presently disclosed filter cartridge assembly, the housing further includes a second inner housing element positioned within the interior cavity of the housing and forming a second filter chamber for the second filter element. Still further, it is envisioned that in an embodiment of the present invention, the housing includes two longitudinal ribs which define two longitudinal channels in the interior cavity of the housing and the second flow path extends through one of the channels and the third flow path extends though the other channel. 
     Preferably, the first outlet port, the second inlet port and third inlet port are located at the distal end of the housing. Still further, it is envisioned that the first outlet port, the second inlet port and the third inlet port can be coaxially arranged. 
     The present invention is also directed to a filter cartridge assembly that includes, inter alia, an elongated housing that has axially opposed proximal and distal ends. The housing defines first, second and third filter chambers and first, second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. A first filter element is disposed within the first filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. A second filter element is disposed within the second filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. A third filter element is disposed within the third filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. The cartridge assembly is constructed such that the first flow path is isolated from the second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flow path. 
     The present invention is also directed to a filter cartridge assembly that includes, among other elements, an elongated housing that has a central axis and axially opposed proximal and distal ends. The housing defines a plurality of axially spaced apart filter chambers and a plurality of flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. The plurality of flow paths are each isolated from one another. The filter cartridge also includes a plurality of filter elements, and one of the plurality of filter elements is disposed within each of the plurality of filter chambers. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the housing defines three filter chambers and three flow paths. Still further, in such an embodiment it is envisioned that the plurality of filter elements includes a first filter element, a second filter element and a third filter element. The first filter element is disposed within the first filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within the second filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the second flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. The third filter element is disposed within the third filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. 
     The present invention is also directed to a filtration system for conditioning fluid received from three distinct fluid sources, the filtration system including, inter alia, a controller, a socket assembly and a filter cartridge assembly. The controller includes means for regulating and monitoring fluid flow in the filtration system and defines an elongated receptacle. The socket assembly is positioned at least partially within an elongated receptacle defined by the controller and includes a locking element. The filter cartridge assembly is inserted into the socket assembly and is secured in fluid communication with the controller by the locking element. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the locking element of the socket assembly includes a cam mechanism for engaging one or more lugs extending from an exterior surface of the filter cartridge assembly. 
     It is presently envisioned that the filter cartridge assembly includes an elongated housing and first, second and third filter elements. The elongated housing has axially opposed proximal and distal ends and defines an interior cavity and first, second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. The first filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the second flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. The third filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid traversing the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. The first flow path is isolated from the second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flow path. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       So that those having ordinary skill in the art will better understand the device and methods of the subject invention, embodiments thereof will be described below with reference to the drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  is a side elevational view of a filter cartridge assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 1B  provides elevational view of the proximal end of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A  shown with parts separated for ease of illustration; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  provide elevational view and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A , which illustrate a first flow path through the filter housing; 
         FIGS. 4A and 4B  provide elevational view and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A , which illustrate a second flow path through the filter housing; 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  provide elevational view and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A , which illustrate a third flow path through the filter housing; 
         FIG. 6  provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A , wherein the end cap and disc filter have been removed and the disc holder is exposed; 
         FIG. 7  provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A , wherein the end cap, disc filter and disc holder have been removed and the flow passages are exposed; 
         FIG. 8A  is a partial cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A  shown with the proximal end cap removed and illustrating the third flow path; 
         FIG. 8B  is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A  taken along cut line L-L in  FIG. 8A ; 
         FIG. 8C  is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 1A  taken along cut line P-P in  FIG. 8A ; 
         FIG. 9A  is a side elevational view of a filter cartridge assembly constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9B  provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 9C  provides a perspective view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A  shown with parts separated for ease of illustration; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A  which illustrates a first flow path through the filter housing; 
         FIG. 12A  is an elevational view of the proximal end of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 12B  is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 9A  taken along cut line E-E of  FIG. 12A , which illustrates a second and a third flow path through the filter housing; 
         FIG. 13A  is perspective view of a tri-flow filtration system which is constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and includes a controller/insufflator module and a filter cartridge assembly; 
         FIG. 13B  is a front elevational view of the tri-flow filtration system of  FIG. 13B ; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective of view of a socket assembly which is adapted for use with the tri-flow filtration system of  FIGS. 13A and 13B ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a filter cartridge assembly, which has been constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, partially inserted into the socket of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a filter cartridge assembly, which has been constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, fully inserted into the socket assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of a filter cartridge assembly fully inserted into the socket assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of a filter cartridge assembly fully inserted into the socket assembly of  FIG. 14 , which illustrates the fluid communication between the socket assembly and the filter cartridge assembly; 
         FIG. 19  is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly constructed in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention; 
         FIG. 20  is a rear-top isometric view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a right side elevational view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a top view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a front view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a bottom view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a left side elevational view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a front-top exploded isometric view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a rear-top exploded isometric view of the filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 28  is perspective view of a further embodiment of a tri-flow filtration system which is constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and includes a controller/insufflator module and a filter cartridge assembly; 
         FIG. 29  is a front elevational view of the tri-flow filtration system of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19  with an integral tube set therefor; 
         FIG. 31  is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19  adapted with a connector for use with a separable tube set; 
         FIG. 32  is an isometric detail view of a filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19  adapted with a connector for use with a separable tube set, illustrating a connecting bushing therefor; 
         FIG. 33  is a front elevational view of the bushing of  FIG. 32 ; and 
         FIG. 34  is a bottom isometric view of the bushing of  FIG. 32 . 
         FIGS. 35(A)-35(X)  are various views of a further embodiment of a filter cartridge in accordance with the disclosure. 
         FIGS. 36(A)-36(T)  are various views of still a further embodiment of a filter cartridge in accordance with the disclosure. 
         FIG. 37  illustrates an exemplary mechanism for attaching a tube set to a trocar in accordance with the disclosure. 
     
    
    
     The advantages of filter cartridge assemblies and filtration systems constructed in accordance with the present invention will become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of certain preferred and exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings which set forth representative embodiments thereof, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify similar structural elements of the subject invention, there is illustrated in  FIGS. 1A-8C  a filter cartridge constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention and designated generally by reference numeral  100 . Filter cartridge  100  includes an elongated housing  10  that has axially opposed proximal (P) and distal (D) ends and defines an interior cavity. As will be discussed in more detail hereinbelow, first, second and third flow paths,  25 ,  35  and  45  respectively, extend from the proximal end (P) of the housing to the distal end (D). The flow paths are illustrated with flow arrows in  FIGS. 3B ,  4 B,  5 B and  8 A- 8 C. 
     Disposed within the interior cavity of filter cartridge  100  are first, second and third filter elements,  20 ,  30  and  40 , respectively. The first filter element  20  conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path  25  from a first inlet port  27  (referred to in  FIGS. 3A and 3B  as the “suction connection slot”) to a first outlet port  29  (referred to in  FIG. 3B  as the “suction/return connection port”). The second filter element  30  conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path  35  from a second inlet port  37  (referred to in  FIG. 4B  as the “pressure connection port at recirculation filtration pump”) to a second outlet port  39  (referred to in  FIG. 4A  as the “pressure connection port”). Lastly, the third filter element conditions fluid that traverses the third flow path  45  from a third inlet port  47  (referred to in  FIG. 5B  as the “sense/insufflation connection port at recirculation filtration pump”) to a third outlet port  49  (referred to in  FIG. 5A  as the “sense/insufflation connection port”). As best shown in  FIGS. 3B ,  4 B and  5 B, the first flow path  25  is isolated from the second and third flow paths,  35  and  45  respectively, and the second flow path  35  is isolated from the third flow path  45 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3B , the first filter element  20  is a radially pleated filter. Fluid is conditioned in the first flow path  25  by traversing in a radially inward direction through the first filter element  20 . As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 4B , the second filter element  30  is also a radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path  35  by traversing in a radially outward direction through the second filter element  30 . Lastly, as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 5A , the third filter element  40  is disc filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path  45  by traversing axially/proximally through the third filter element  40 . 
       FIG. 2  provides an exploded perspective view of filter cartridge  100 . As shown therein, housing  10  of the filter cartridge includes a main body portion  12 , a proximal end cap  60  and a distal end cap  70 . The main body portion  12  of the housing  10  partially defines the filter chambers for the first and second filter elements,  20  and  30  (see  FIG. 3B ). The first filter element  20  is inserted into the main body portion  12  and contacts proximal end wall  18 . An internal filter support structure  85  ( FIG. 2 ) sandwiches the first filter element  20  within a first sealed filter chamber  22  (identified in  FIGS. 3B and 4B  as the “suction filter chamber”). The internal filter support structure  85  includes a first partition element  87  which abuts the first filter element  20  and a cylindrical stem  89  which extends axially from the partition element  87 . An O-ring  83  is positioned within a circumferential groove formed in the partition element  87  and aids in fluidly isolating the first filter chamber  22  from the second filter chamber  32 . 
     The second filter element  30  is positioned over the cylindrical stem  89  of filter support structure  85  and a second partition element  90  is used to seal the distal end of the second filter chamber  32  (identified in  FIGS. 3B and 3A  as “the pressure filter chamber”). The second partition element  90  has a cylindrical neck portion  92  into which the cylindrical stem  89  of the filter support structure  85  is inserted. 
     The third filter element  40  is supported within the housing  10  on a disc holder  80 . The third filter element  40  and the disc holder  80  are positioned between the proximal end cap  60  and the proximal end wall  18  of the main body portion  12  of housing  10 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 3B ,  4 B and  5 B, the main body portion  12  of housing  10  includes a pair of coaxially positioned peripheral walls,  14  (outer) and  16  (inner), which are integrally molded with the proximal end wall  18 . As shown in these figure and to be discussed in detail hereinbelow, a portion of the second and third flow paths,  35  and  45 , extend in a passage defined between the peripheral walls of the housing  10 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 2 ,  3 A,  4 A and  5 A, the proximal end (P) of the housing  10  includes a connector element  50 . The connector element  50  houses the first inlet port  27  and the second and third outlet ports,  39  and  49 , respectively. The connector element  50  also includes a male thread  52 , similar to a luer lock fitting, which allows the filter cartridge  100  to be fluidly engaged with a tube set, for example, having a mating connector head. As best shown in  FIGS. 3B ,  4 B and  5 B, the first outlet port  29 , the second inlet port  37  and third inlet port  47  are coaxially arranged at the distal end (D) of the housing  10 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the first flow path  25  extends from the first inlet port  27 , a slotted hole formed in connector element  50 , through an aperture  4  (see  FIGS. 6 and 7 ) formed in the proximal end wall  18  of the main body portion  12  of housing  10  and into the first filter chamber  22 . Then fluid in the first flow path  25  is distributed around the circumference of the first filter element  20  and is conditioned by passing in a radially inward direction (see  FIG. 8C ) through the filter media to the central core of the filter element. The conditioned fluid then travels distally from the central core of the first filer element  20  into the bore defined in the cylindrical stem  89  of the filter support structure  85  and exits the filter housing  10  through the first outlet port  29 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the second flow path  35  extends from the second inlet port  37  defined between the outer periphery of the cylindrical stem  89  of the filter support structure  85  and the cylindrical neck  92  of the second partition element  90  until it reaches the central core of the second filter element  30 . Then the fluid in the second flow path is conditioned by proceeding in a radially outward direction through the filter media of the second filter element  30  (see  FIG. 8B ) and the conditioned fluid is supplied to an axial flow passage  6  defined between the inner  16  and outer peripheral walls  14  of the main body portion  12  of housing  10 . The axial flow passage  6  is also shown in  FIG. 8B  and identified as the “pressure filter passage thru filter housing”. The conditioned fluid in axially flow passage  6  exits the main body portion  12  of the housing  10  through a flow aperture  8  formed in peripheral end wall  18  (see  FIG. 6 ) and exits the proximal end (P) of the filter cartridge  100  through the second outlet port  39  formed in connector  50 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , the third flow path  45  initially extends axially from the third inlet port  47 , which is defined between the outer periphery of the cylindrical neck  92  of the second partition element  90  and the cylindrical neck  72  of the end cap  70 , to a planar chamber defined between the end cap  70  and the second partition element  90 . From this chamber the third flow path  45  proceeds radially outward to a second axial flow passage  2  defined between the inner  16  and outer  14  peripheral walls of the main body portion  12  of the housing  10 . This axial flow passage  2  is also illustrated in  FIGS. 8B and 8C  (identified as the “sense/insufflation filter passage thru filter housing”). The fluid in the second axially flow passage  2  exits the main body portion of the housing through the peripheral end wall  18  and is supplied to a triangularly-shaped chamber  24  (see  FIG. 7 ). From this chamber  24  the third flow path  45  proceeds through an aperture  37  formed in the disc holder  80  and through the third filter element  40 , a disc filter. The conditioned fluid then exits the housing  10  through the third outlet port  49  formed in connector. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 9A-12B , there is illustrated a filter cartridge which has been constructed in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention and is designated generally by reference numeral  200 . Filter cartridge  200  includes an elongated housing  110  that has axially opposed proximal (P) and distal (D) ends and defines an interior cavity. As will be discussed in more detail hereinbelow, first, second and third flow paths,  125 ,  135  and  145  respectively, extend from the proximal end (P) of the housing to the distal end (D). The flow paths are illustrated with flow arrows in  FIGS. 11 ,  12 A and  12 B. 
     Disposed within the interior cavity of filter cartridge  200  are first, second and third filter elements,  120 ,  130  and  140 , respectively. The first filter element  120  conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path  125  from a first inlet port  127  (referred to in  FIG. 11  as the “suction connection slot”) to a first outlet port  129 . The second filter element  130  conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path  135  from a second inlet port  137  to a second outlet port  139  (referred to in  FIG. 12B  as the “pressure gas exit”). Lastly, the third filter element conditions fluid that traverses the third flow path  145  from a third inlet port  147  to a third outlet port  149  (referred to in  FIG. 12B  as the “insufflation gas exit”). As best shown in  FIGS. 11 ,  12 A and  12 B, the first flow path  125  is isolated from the second and third flow paths,  135  and  145  respectively, and the second flow path  135  is isolated from the third flow path  145 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the first filter element  120  is a radially pleated filter. Fluid is conditioned in the first flow path  125  by traversing in a radially inward direction through the first filter element  120 . As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12B , the second filter element  130  is also a radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path  135  by traversing in a radially outward direction through the second filter element  130 . Lastly, as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12B , the third filter element  140  is disc filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path  145  by traversing axially/proximally through the third filter element  140 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , which provides an exploded perspective view of filter cartridge  200 . As shown therein, housing  110  of the filter cartridge  200  includes an exterior body portion  112  and a proximal end cap  160 . Unlike filter cartridge  100  which utilizes a double-walled housing  10  and a distal end cap  70 , housing  110  for cartridge  200  has a single-walled exterior body portion  112  and first and second interior chamber segments,  154  and  156 , respectively. The first and second interior chamber segments  154 / 156  of the housing  110  partially define the filter chambers for the first and second filter elements,  120 / 130 . 
     The second interior chamber segment  156  includes a cylindrical neck portion  192  ( FIG. 9A ) which is inserted into the proximal end (P) of the exterior body portion  112  of the housing  110  until the neck portion  192  extends though the aperture formed in the distal end of the exterior body portion  112 . The second filter element  130  is disposed within the second interior chamber segment and a second filter chamber  132  is established by inserting a cylindrical stem  189  associated with the first interior chamber segment  154  through the center of the second filter element  130  and into the bore of cylindrical neck portion  192 . The first filter element  120  is contained within an interior cavity defined by the first interior chamber segment  154  and the first filter chamber  122  is established by sealing off the proximal end of the exterior body portion  112  using the disc holder  150  (see  FIG. 10 ) and the proximal end cap  160 . The third filter element  140  is supported in housing  112  by a disc holder  150 , which includes an upper half  150   a  and a lower half  150   b.    
     As best shown in  FIG. 9C , the exterior body portion of the housing  110  includes two longitudinal ribs  158   a / 158   b  that are spaced approximately 90 degrees apart. The ribs  158   a / 158   b  are used to create longitudinal channels or passageways between the inner wall of the exterior body portion  112  and the outer surfaces of the first and second interior chamber segments  154 / 156 . As shown in this figure and to be discussed in detail hereinbelow, a portion of the second and third flow paths,  135  and  145 , extend in the longitudinal channels defined between the interior chamber segments and the exterior body portion of the housing. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 9A ,  9 B  11 ,  12 A and  12 B, the proximal end (P) of the housing  110  includes a connector element  150 . The connector element  150  houses the first inlet port  127  and the second and third outlet ports,  139  and  149 , respectively. The connector element  150  also includes a male thread  152 , similar to a luer lock fitting, which allows the filter cartridge  200  to be fluidly engaged with a tube set, for example, having a mating connector head. As best shown in  FIGS. 9A ,  11  and  12 B, the first outlet port  129 , the second inlet port  137  and third inlet port  147  are coaxially arranged at the distal end (D) of the housing  110 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 11 , the first flow path  125  extends from the first inlet port  127 , a slotted hole formed in connector element  150  positioned, through a passage  104  (see  FIG. 10 ) formed in the upper and lower disc holder halves  150   a / 150   b  and into the first filter chamber  122 . Then fluid in the first flow path  125  is distributed around the circumference of the first filter element  120  and is conditioned by passing in a radially inward direction (see  FIG. 11 ) through the filter media into the central core of the first filter element  120 . The conditioned fluid then travels distally from the central core of the first filer element  120  into the bore defined in the cylindrical stem  189  of the first interior chamber segment  154  and exits the filter housing  110  through the first outlet port  129 . ( FIG. 11 ) 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B , the second flow path  135  extends from the second inlet port  137  defined between the outer periphery of the cylindrical stem  189  of the first interior segment  154  and the cylindrical neck  192  of the second interior chamber segment  156  until it reaches the central core of the second filter element  130 . Then the fluid in the second flow path  135  is conditioned by proceeding in a radially outward direction through the filter media of the second filter element  130  and the conditioned fluid is supplied through side aperture  102  (see  FIG. 10 ) formed in the second interior chamber segment  156  to an axial flow passage  106  defined between rib  158   b  of the exterior body portion  112  and the outer peripheral walls of the first and second interior chamber segments  154 / 156 . The conditioned fluid in axially flow passage  106  exits into a radially oriented channel  197  (see  FIG. 12A ) formed in the proximal end cap  160  and exits the proximal end (P) of the filter cartridge  200  through the second outlet port  139  formed in connector  150 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 12A and 12B , the third flow path  145  initially extends axially from the third inlet port  147 , which is defined between the outer periphery of the cylindrical neck  192  of the second interior chamber segment  156  and the cylindrical neck  172  of exterior body portion  112  of housing  110 , to a radially directed channel formed between rib  158   a  and the exterior surface of the second interior chamber segment  156 . Fluid in the third flow path  145  is then supplied to a second axial flow passage  126  defined between rib  158   a  of the exterior body portion  112  and the outer peripheral walls of the first and second interior chamber segments  154 / 156 . ( FIG. 10 ) The fluid in the second axially flow passage  126  is directed through side aperture  172  (see  FIG. 10 ) into the third filter chamber  142  defined by the upper and lower disc holder halves  150   a / 150   b . Once in the third filter chamber  142  the fluid is conditioned by passing axially through the third filter element  140 , a disc filter. The conditioned fluid is supplied to a wedge-shaped chamber  124  (see  FIG. 12A ) formed on the underside of the proximal end cap  160  and exits the housing  110  through the third outlet port  149  formed in connector  150 . 
     Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is not limited to particular type of filter type or media, such as a radially pleated filter element. For example, a resin bonded cellulose type filter can be used or a fibrous media for filtering pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, carbon block filter media, spiral wound media. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 13A-17 , there is illustrated a filtration system which has been constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is designated generally by reference numeral  300 . As will be described hereinbelow, filtration system  300  is adapted and configured for conditioning fluid received from three distinct fluid sources and for use in conjunction with the surgical trocar disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008, which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
     Filtration system  300  includes, among other elements, a controller  310 , a socket assembly  330  and the previously described filter cartridge assembly  100 . As will be discussed in detail below, controller  310  includes mechanisms for regulating and monitoring fluid flow in filtration system  300 . 
     The controller  310  has an outer housing  312  with planar upper and lower surfaces  314  and  316  respectively, and curved side walls  318   a / 318   b . The side walls  318   a / 318   b  each include finger recesses  320   a  (opposite side, not shown)/ 320   b  for moving or manipulating the controller  310 . The planar lower surface  316  allows the controller  310  to be placed on a utility cart or supported from the overhead of the operating room using a boom mechanism. 
     The front face  322  of controller  310  includes an analog gage  324 , a dial  326 , a power button  328  and a jack  329 . The purpose and operation of these elements will be described hereinbelow. An elongated receptacle  340  or bore is formed in the housing  312  for the controller  310  and extends into the controller  310  from its front face  322 . The receptacle  340  is adapted and configured for receiving the socket assembly  330  (see  FIGS. 14-17 ). Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that rather than an analog gage, a digital gage can be used and the controller can be equipped with additional dials, gages and readout devices. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 14-17 , the socket assembly  330  functions as an adapter for releasably retaining the filter cartridge  100  in fluid communication with the controller  310 . The socket assembly  330  includes a main body portion  332  which defines a central bore  334  into which the filter cartridge assembly  100  is inserted. A locking element  336  and a mounting ring  338  are positioned at the proximal end of the socket assembly  330 . The mounting ring  338  has a plurality of holes formed in its periphery for fastening the socket assembly  330  to the controller  310 . 
     The locking element  336  of the socket assembly  330  includes a cam mechanism which has a cam ring  342  with a lever arm  344  extending radially outward from its outer circumference. The lever arm  344  is used to rotate the cam ring  342  with respect to the main body portion  332  of the socket assembly  330 . The cam ring  342  includes four axial slots  346  each of which terminates in pitched camming channels  348  (two shown in  FIG. 14 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the main body portion  12  of the housing  10  of filter cartridge assembly  100  has 4 radially-spaced apart cam lugs  62  and an alignment rib  64  formed on its outer periphery. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is not limited to any particular number or orientation of cam lugs. 
     As shown in  FIG. 15 , when filter cartridge assembly  100  is inserted into the central bore  334  of the socket assembly  330  each alignment rib  64  must be oriented such that it can be received into a respective mating channel  350  (identified from the exterior) formed in the main body portion  332  of the socket assembly  330  (see  FIG. 15 ). Moreover, the camming lugs  62  must each pass through the axial slots  346  of the cam ring  342  and into respective pitched camming channels  348 . When the cam ring  342  is rotated with respect to the filter cartridge assembly  100 , by rotating lever arm  344  as shown in  FIGS. 13A and 13B  (see directional arrow  352 ), the camming lugs  62  formed on the outer periphery of housing  12  are trapped in the pitched camming channels  348  and the filter cartridge assembly  100  is forced further into the central bore  334  of the socket assembly  330  and secured in fluid communication with the controller  310 . (See  FIGS. 16 and 17 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , fluid in the first flow path exits the filter assembly  100  along the central axis and passes through an axial port formed in socket assembly  330 . Fluid is supplied to the second and third flow paths in the filter assembly through radially directed ports formed in the socket assembly  330 . 
     In operation controller  310  can include an insufflation unit and be connected to surgical trocar, similar to that disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008. The trocar can be connected to the controller  310  by way of fluid conduits or a tube set (not shown). In the embodiment disclosed herein, the controller does not include an insufflator but receives insufflation gas from an insufflator through jack  329 . The insufflator would receive the gas from, for example, a supply tank and a pressure regulator would normally be provided between the tank and the insufflator. 
     The operation of the controller is described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008, and will not be repeated herein. As noted in these references, the system for surgical insufflation and recirculation disclosed therein requires the filtering of three separate fluid sources. The controller  310  can be utilized with any embodiments of the systems described these application. As illustrated in  FIGS. 13A and 13B , controller  310  includes a settable dial  326  for setting the desired pressure output from the controller, and a pressure gauge  324  for confirming the set pressure. 
     As illustrated, the filter cartridge assembly  100  mounts directly to the control unit  310 , such that a low profile is presented. In such a configuration, the first flow path  25  of the filter cartridge assembly  100  would be used to filter gas being removed from the abdomen patient (suction line) or for the removal of spent insufflation fluid. The second flow path  35  of filter cartridge assembly  100  would be used for conditioning the pressured gas being provided to the trocar for use in sealing the lumen used to pass instruments and the like through the trocar. The third flow path  45  of filter cartridge assembly  100  would be used to condition the pressurized gas used for insufflation and sensing. 
       FIGS. 19-27  illustrate a filter cartridge assembly  1900  constructed in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention. As with foregoing embodiments, the filter cartridge assembly includes a plurality of filter elements for filtering a plurality of fluid flow paths. Differences are provided in the shape of the housing  1920 , flow paths formed therewithin, and other features. However, with the filter  1900 , features similar to those of the filter cartridge  100  are illustrated and not necessarily described explicitly. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , the filter cartridge  1900  includes a connection  1950  for a tube set, a front end cap  1910 , housing  1920  and rear end cap  1990 . In the rear end cap  1990  are defined ports for connection with a recirculation unit. One port  1953  is for supply pressure from the unit, through the filter cartridge  1900 , one port  1957  is for insufflation and pressure sensing through the cartridge  1900 , and one port  1955  is for return from the cartridge into the unit. 
     In the exploded views of  FIGS. 26 and 27 , the parts that can be seen, and the function thereof, are as follows. The front end cap  1910  distributes flow from the connection  1950  thereon. Recirculation flow goes from a tube set, through the lower wide port of the connector  1950 , and into a chamber defined between the front plate  1910  and a separating plate  1973 , which helps hold fluid and prevent it from reaching the recirculation filter  1981 , which is a horizontal pleated filter, shaped as a cylinder. The filter  1981  is held off the bottom of its chamber  1922  in the housing  1920  by a tapered ring, which has a substantially triangular cross-section, the small end of which abuts a central wall  1924  in the housing  1920 . Return flow passes through the filter  1981  and through a channel  1926  in the housing, through another passage in the rear end plate  1990 , and to the respective port  1955 . 
     Insufflation pressure passes from its port  1957 , into a chamber defined by rear housing portion  1995  in the rear end plate  1990 , through a flat filter  1985 , into a channel  1921  defined in the housing  1920 , into a channel  1911  formed in the front end cap, and through a respective port on the connector  1950 . 
     Pressure from the unit flows through its designated port  1953 , into a rear chamber defined for the pressure filter  1983  by the housing  1920  and the end plate  1990 . A ring  1977  is also provided to hold the filter off of the dividing wall  1924 . A channel  1929  then carries the pressure through the housing  1920 , into the front end cap  1910 , where a channel  1919  directs the flow through the connector  1950 . 
     The filters  1983  and  1981  are preferably sealed against the housing  1920  by an adhesive. Grooves and matching ridges can be provided between adjoining housing sections, such can be adhered by an adhesive or by other suitable means, such as ultrasonic welding. In accordance with the invention, the filter  1900  can be configured such that channels formed in the wall of the housing  1920 , such as channels  1921 ,  1929 , and an offset arrangement of the pleated filter elements  1981 ,  1983  result in a housing cross-section that is not circular but has lobular portions in cross-section, corresponding to such channels. 
       FIG. 28-29  illustrate a further embodiment of a tri-flow filtration system  2800  which is constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and includes a controller/insufflator module and a filter cartridge assembly  1900 . The system  2800  includes a digital readout  2824 , but otherwise includes features similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 13A and 13B . 
       FIG. 30  is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly of  FIG. 19  with an integral tube set  3010  therefor. A bushing  3090  is provided for connecting the tri-lumen tube of the tube set  3010  to the filter housing  1900 . A detachable connection  3140  can alternatively be provided. The bushing  3090 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 33 and 34 , includes an interior contour  3093  matching the tube substantially, and an outer taper  3094  for interfacing with the connection  1950 , and facilitating a compression fitting of the tube set  3010  and the filter  1900 . Adhesive can be used to facilitate a seal therebetween. 
     In addition, further embodiments of filter assemblies  1000 ,  2000  are appended hereto in  FIGS. 35(A)-35(X)  and  36 (A)- 36 (T), respectively. The filter embodiments of  FIGS. 35 and 36  perform similar functions to those in U.S. Ser. No. 12/577,188, but contain additional refinements and features. 
     A first embodiment  1000  of filter is presented in  FIGS. 35(A)-35(X) . Filter  1000  includes a compression fitting  1020  received by an inlet or input manifold  1030  that cooperate to hold a tube set  1010  in place ( FIGS. 35(B) ,  35 (C)). Only a terminal portion of tubeset  1010  is pictured, including fluid flow passages  1012  (FIG.  35 (F)), each of which can perform a separate function (e.g., delivery of insufflation gas, smoke evacuation and recirculation). Compression fitting  1020  ( FIGS. 35(G) ,  35 (H)) includes a body  1024  having a compression portion  1026  integrally formed therewith and defining an opening  1022  for receiving tubeset  1010 . Manifold  1030  ( FIGS. 35(I) ,  35 (J)) includes a first portion  1034  for receiving tubeset  1010  with compression fitting  1020  mounted thereon. Compression of tubeset  1010  is achieved by an interference fit created by interference of tubeset  1010 , fitting  1020  and the interior space  1035  of manifold  1030 . Manifold  1030  defines three fluid passages  1032  therethrough from the inlet side depicted in  FIG. 35(I)  to outlet or reverse side  1038  depicted in  FIG. 35(J) . An inlet cover plate  1040  ( FIGS. 35(K) ,  35 (L)) is provided defining a plurality of fluid flow passages  1042  therethrough. Outwardly facing surface  1044  of cover plate  1040  may include indicia  1045  or the like. Inwardly facing surface  1046  is divided into three flow areas or plena ( 1210 ,  1220 ,  1230 ). Plena  1210 ,  1220 ,  1230  represent three individual fluid flow circuits that traverse filter  1000  from inlet to outlet. Pleated filter elements  1050  ( FIG. 35(M) ) and filter element  1085  ( FIG. 35(E) ) are provided for filtering fluid flowing through each of the plena  1210 ,  1220  and  1230 . An o-ring  1260  (FIG.  35 (N)), spacer or other suitable sealing element is provided for placement between filter element  1250  and housing  1100  when assembled. 
     Filter housing  1100  ( FIGS. 35(O) ,  35 (P),  35 (Q)) is configured to receive the other portions of filter assembly  1000  and to define passages for plena  1210 ,  1220 ,  1230 . For example, as most clearly shown in  FIG. 35(Q) , an opening  1150  is defined proximate the bottom of housing  1100  to permit fluid to flow through plenum  1210 , opening  1160  is provided to permit fluid to flow through plenum  1220 , and opening  1170  is provided to permit fluid to flow through plenum  1230 . Filter housing  1100  is preferably transparent, and includes integrally formed prisms  1172 ,  1174  for sensing rise of liquid level thereto when a reservoir  1240  ( FIG. 35(P) ) defined by cooperation of housing  1100  and reservoir backing plate  1070 . Liquid entrained in gas being recirculated from the pneumoperitoneum collects in the reservoir  1240  and fills from the bottom  1242  thereof to a first setpoint level defined by the first prism  1172 , and a second setpoint level defined by second prism  1174 . The lead lines to each prism  1172 ,  1174  in  FIG. 35P  correlate approximately with the fluid level when the setpoint is achieved. The outer surface of housing  1100  proximate the location of the prisms  1172 ,  1174  is in optical communication with a sensor in the insufflation unit or other optical sensor that is adapted and configured to detect a change in the index of refraction in the region of the prism. One disclosed embodiment of a combined insufflation/recirculation/smoke evacuation system is included herewith as an Appendix from which dates have been redacted. Discussion of prisms  1172 ,  1174  and their function is described in further detail therein at section 5.6.8.1.1. If housing  1100  is provided as an opaque or coated unit, prisms are provided in a transparent form in accordance with their desired function. Reservoir backing plate  1070  ( FIG. 35(R) ,  FIG. 35(S) ) includes a reservoir facing surface  1072  and a second surface  1074 . Flow passage  1220  is provided therethrough by way of an opening surrounded by a raised boss  1076 , which helps prevent fluid in the reservoir  1240  from splashing through the opening. 
     Diverter plate  1080  is illustrated in  FIGS. 35(T) and 35(U) . Surface  1082  faces the flow and surface  1084  faces end cap  1090  ( FIGS. 35(V) ,  35 W). End cap includes a first face  1092  and an outer face  1094  Passages are provided through plates  1080 ,  1090  to maintain fluid continuity for flow passages/plena  1210 ,  1220 ,  1230 . Diverter fins  1086 ,  1096  are provided on plates  1080 ,  1090  for holding filter media  1085  in place. Bosses  1093  are provided for receiving O-rings  1095  (preferably made from silicone) also held in place by retainer  1098  (FIG.  35 (X)), thereby providing for an even mounting surface that is substantially flush with the distal face of the filter housing, in contrast to the earlier embodiment having concentrically mounted seals (see  FIG. 9(C) ). In other words, the seals, or o-rings, for each flow passage are located in the same plane with respect to the distal end of the filter housing. The various components of filters  1000 ,  2000  can be assembled using any suitable means, including but not limited to adhesive, ultrasonic welding and the like. 
     A second embodiment of filter  2000  is presented in  FIGS. 36(A)-36(T) , wherein like numbers refer to like components of filter  1000 , but with a prefix of 2. Filter  2000  shares many similarities in components with filter  1000 , but provides only two fluid flow paths/plena rather than three. Specifically, the fluid passages  1220 ,  1230  of filter  1000  remain essentially unchanged, but fluid passage  1210  and its associated filter  1050  are eliminated. One intended use of filter  2000  is for purposes of smoke evacuation, particularly when an air-actuated trocar (as described herein) is not connected to the system. Manifold  2030  differs from manifold  1030 , in that it includes two fluid passages instead of three, defined by bosses  2035  that are adapted and configured to receive flexible tubing thereon from the tube set. 
     In further accordance with the disclosure, an embodiment of a coupling  3000  for coupling the tubing (e.g.,  1010 ) to a trocar, is illustrated in  FIG. 37 . Coupling  3000  includes a first component  3010  that mates to a tube (e.g.,  1010 ) by way of one or more elongate male tubes  3014  (three being illustrated) that are received in passages  1012  of conduit  1010  ( FIG. 35(F) ). Bosses  3012  are received by passages  3032  in manifold  3030 , which is preferably attached to the proximal portion of a trocar similar to that described, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/960,701 that utilizes three gas plena. The components  3010  and  3030  are selectively coupled and held in place by way of a concentric locking ring  3020 , which has bosses  3024  that snap around circular boss  3016  of component  3010 , and threads engage with bosses  3033  on manifold  3030  in order to hold the assembly together. 
     The present disclosure provides for trocars and surgical systems with superior attributes as compared with systems of the prior art. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the device and method of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the subject disclosure and equivalents.