Abstract:
The fluid coupler comprises a male coupler, a female coupler, and a seal between the male coupler and the female coupler when they are coupled, preventing fluid leakage. The female coupler receives the male coupler when in a coupled position. The male coupler includes a two pieced housing, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The two pieces of the housing may be joined. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The female coupler includes a housing, an annulus, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The annulus and the housing may be joined. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The unitary valves and biasing members fit within the cavities and are capable of longitudinal positioning within a configurable range. When male coupler and female coupler are coupled, the unitary valves are open permitting fluid flow. Otherwise, if uncoupled, the unitary valves are closed preventing fluid leakage.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/326,714 filed on Dec. 19, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,191,798, and entitled “Fluid Circuit Connector System”, which is hereby fully incorporated by reference. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates generally to fluid circuit connector systems. More specifically, the invention concerns quick-release connectors having couplers with single part unitary valves for controlling fluid leakage. 
   Fluid circuits are useful in a variety of contexts, particularly providing hot and/or cold therapeutic treatments to sore body parts. The potential effectiveness of a hot or cold treatment increases with the level of temperature control. Precise temperature control can be achieved through a carefully controlled fluid circuit. Fluids have a high rate of heat transfer and the precise temperature may be quickly changed and easily maintained. Examples of devices for delivering hot or cold fluids for therapeutic purposes include United States Patent Publication Number 2001/0039439 A1 to Elkins and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/267,247 filed on Oct. 8, 2002, and entitled “Contrast Therapy System and Method”, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
   Therapy devices configured to deliver hot and cold treatments may employ one or more reservoirs of fluid. Often these devices include one hot fluid reservoir and one cold fluid reservoir configured to connect via a fluid circuit to a therapy pad or wrap. The therapy pad or wrap may be configured to fit a specific part of the body. For example, wraps are often designed to apply therapy to a limb, such as an arm or a leg, and pads are often designed to apply therapy to the torso, particularly the back or shoulders. 
   It may be desirable to easily interchange between wraps or pads of varying capacity and size. Additionally, it may be desirable to eliminate fluid loss such as to reduce mess, the need to refill reservoirs, and to ensure that sore body parts remain dry which is of particular importance when soreness is due to wound or post operative healing. 
   It is therefore apparent that an urgent need exists for an improved fluid circuit connector system that enables rapid interchangeability, while eliminating leakage. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   To achieve the foregoing and in accordance with the present invention, a system for a fluid circuit coupler is provided. Such a system is useful for a system that supplies fluids for any purpose. In some embodiments, such a system may be useful in delivering hot and/or cold fluids for therapy for sore or damaged body parts. 
   One advantage of the present invention is that the fluid coupler enables rapid coupling and decoupling of portions of a fluid circuit while preventing leakage. The fluid coupler comprises a male coupler, a female coupler, and a seal positioned between the male coupler and the female coupler when they are coupled, thereby preventing fluid from leaking out from the coupled fluid coupler. The female coupler receives the male coupler when in a coupled position. 
   The male coupler includes a two pieced housing, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The two pieces of the housing may be joined via welding, threading, glue or compression fitting. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The unitary valve and biasing member fit within the cavity and are capable of longitudinal positioning within a configurable range. The unitary valve includes a sealer, which seals the male coupler when it is decoupled from the female coupler. 
   The female coupler includes a housing, an annulus, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The annulus and the housing may be joined via welding, threading, glue or compression fitting. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The unitary valve and biasing member fit within the cavity and are capable of longitudinal positioning within a configurable range. The unitary valve includes a sealer, which seals the female coupler when it is decoupled from the male coupler. 
   The fluid coupler is configured to be in one of a coupled position and an uncoupled position. When in the coupled position, the unitary valves are open permitting fluid flow through the coupler. Otherwise, when in the uncoupled position the unitary valves are closed preventing fluid leakage. 
   These and other features of the present invention will be described in more detail below in the detailed description of the invention and in conjunction with the following figures. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     In order that the present invention may be more clearly ascertained, one embodiment will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
       FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fluid circuit connector system according to the present invention. 
       FIG. 2  shows an exploded and sectioned side view of an embodiment of a quick-release connector for use with the fluid circuit connector system of  FIG. 1 . 
       FIG. 3  shows a sectional side view of the quick-release connector of  FIG. 2 , shown in a connected configuration. 
       FIG. 4  shows a partially sectioned top view of an embodiment of a quick-release connector of the present invention showing a disconnected configuration. 
       FIG. 5  shows a partially sectioned side view of a fluid coupler according to an embodiment of the present invention, shown in a disconnected and closed configuration. 
       FIG. 6  shows a partially sectioned top view of the quick-release connector of  FIG. 4 , shown in a connected configuration. 
       FIG. 7  shows a partially sectioned side view of the fluid coupler of  FIG. 5 , shown in a connected and open configuration. 
       FIG. 8  shows an exploded assembly view of the fluid coupler of  FIGS. 5 and 7 . 
       FIG. 9  shows a partially sectioned side view of a fluid coupler housing and a unitary valve illustrating concentric spherical radii, which define the relative position of a valve seat and a set of valve guides. 
       FIG. 10  shows an enlarged view of  FIG. 9 , showing a partially sectioned a cut away view of the valve seat and housing seat of and embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 11A  shows a partially sectioned side view of the fluid coupler shown in a connected and open configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 11B  shows a partially sectioned side view of the fluid coupler of  FIG. 11A , shown in a disconnected configuration. 
       FIG. 12  shows a partially sectioned side view of a male fluid coupler housing according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 13  shows an exploded assembly view of the male fluid coupler according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 14  shows a sectional side view of the quick-release connector including the fluid coupler of  FIG. 11A , according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to several embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps and/or structures have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention. The features and advantages of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and discussions that follow. 
   To facilitate discussion,  FIG. 1  shows a fluid circuit connection system, indicated generally at  10 . Although useful for a variety of fluid circuit systems, the illustrated embodiment is shown in the context of a contrast therapy wrap. Fluid circuit connection system  10  includes an object fitting  12 , as shown the object fitting is connected to a contrast therapy applicator  13 , such as a pad or wrap. Contrast therapy applicator  13  may be any of a variety of contrast therapy applicators including arm wraps, leg wraps, waist wraps, shoulder wraps, and pads for applying therapy to various sore body parts. Object fitting  12  may be configured to receive a quick-release connector  14  attached to one end of a set of tubes  16 . At the other end of tube set  16  is another quick-release connector  14  configured to connect to a source fitting  18 . Source fitting  18  connects the fluid circuit to a source of hot and cold fluid for circulation. 
   It will be understood that in the illustrated embodiment both quick-release connectors  14  may be used to attach to either object fitting  12  or source fitting  18 . Other embodiments of the present invention may have quick-release connectors  14  that may be fitting specific. For example, a quick-release connector configured to attach to object fitting  12  may not connect to source fitting  18  and vice versa. This may be desirable for enabling the use of a contrast therapy fluid supply with a variety of therapy wraps and pads that may have different types and or sizes of object fittings. 
     FIGS. 2 and 3  show the latch operation of object fitting  12  and quick-release connector  14 . Object fitting  12  includes latch recesses  20  configured to receive latch tabs  22  from quick-release connector  14 . Latch tabs  22  may be positioned at the ends of latch arms  24  of quick-release connector  14 . Latch arms  24  may be attached to connector  14  at a thinned rotational flex point  25 . Latch release buttons  26  may be attached to quick-release connector  14  on an opposed side of flex point  25  from latch arms  24 . Latch buttons  26  are biased outward by a biasing member  29 . The outward bias of latch buttons  26  causes a slight inward bias to latch arms  24  on the opposite side of flex point  25 . 
   Quick-release connector  14  may be connected to object fitting  12  by depressing latch buttons  26  with a squeezing motion, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , by arrows  27 . Depressing latch buttons  26  causes latch arms  24  to spread out, as illustrated in dashed lines in  FIG. 3 . With latch buttons  26  depressed, quick-release connector  14  may be pushed into engagement with object fitting  12 . Once quick latch  14  is pushed into engagement, latch buttons  26  may be released causing spring  29  to urge latch arms  24  to close together and latch tabs  22  to engage latch recesses  20 , thus securing connector  14  to fitting  12 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 2 , object fitting  12  and quick latch connector  14  may be made of two halves that are held together with snap fittings  28 . Pressing each half together around the tubes and couplers carrying fluid to the object or from the object completes the fitting and connector. Other constructions for object fitting  12  and quick-release connector  14  may also be used. 
   Releasing quick-release connector  14  may be accomplished by simply reversing the above process. First, depress latch buttons  26  spreading latch arms  24  and causing latch tabs  22  to release from latch recesses  20 . Second, pull quick-release connector  14  from object fitting  12 . 
   Source fitting  18  similarly includes latch recesses configured to receive latch tabs  22  of quick lock connector  14 . Therefore, quick-release connector  14 , which is attached to the other end of tube set  16 , may be connected to and released from source fitting  18  in the same manner as described with regard to object fitting  12 . It will be understood that both quick-release connectors  14  are constructed in the same manner and may be used to attach to either object fitting  12  or source fitting  18 . 
     FIG. 4  shows object fitting  12  and quick-release connector  14  in a disconnected configuration. Object fitting  12  and quick-release connector  14  may each include two halves of a fluid coupler  30 . Fluid coupler  30  is a device configured to permit the ends of two tubes to couple in fluid communication with one another and to seal the ends of the two tubes upon decoupling. 
   Each fluid coupler includes a pair of coupler housings  32 . Coupler housings  32  may include two types. A male coupler housing  34  may be configured for insertion into a female housing  36 . Object fitting  12  may include one of each type of housing, as shown in  FIG. 4 , or may include two of the same types of coupler housings. It will be understood that, if object fitting  12  has one of each type of coupler housing, then in a corresponding location quick-release connector  14  must have the complementary coupler housing type. For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , object fitting  12  includes male coupler housing  34  in a top location and female coupler housing  36  in a bottom location, therefore quick-release connector  14  should have female coupler housing  36  in a top location and male coupler housing  34  in a bottom location. 
   Fluid coupler  30  may include a seal  38  to prevent fluid from escaping between male coupler housing  34  and female coupler housing  36 . Seal  38  may be an O-ring type seal that is configured to sit in place in a groove cut in male housing  36 . It will be understood that seal  38  may include other suitable sealing gaskets or mechanisms and may be configured to sit in place in either the male of female coupler housing. 
   In operation, quick-release connector  14  and object fitting  12 , or source fitting  18 , will fully latch prior to male coupler housing  34  and female coupler housing  36  bottoming out against one another. This ensures that the quick-lock connector engages properly and prevents the coupler housings from interfering with a proper latch between quick-lock connector  14  and one of the fittings. 
   Each coupler housing  32  includes a valve assembly. It follows that each fluid coupler  30  then includes two valve assemblies. A valve assembly may be configured to open a fluid flow path between two tube ends. Tubes may be press fit over the ends of coupler housings  32  to enable fluid communication between the tubes and the fluid coupler. 
     FIG. 5  illustrates a decoupled fluid coupler  30 . Fluid coupler  30  may include two main components, namely coupler housings  32  and unitary valve  40 . The combination of portions of coupler housing  32  and unitary valve  40  may be referred to as a valve assembly. Unitary valve  40  cooperates with a housing seat  43  in housing  32  to seal off one section of housing  32  from another section. Housing seat  43  may be formed integral with coupler housing  32 . Unitary valve  40  may be configured to fit within coupler housing  32 . For example, coupler housing  32  may include an elongate bore  42  adapted to receive unitary valve  40  axially within elongate bore  42 . Housing seat  43  may be positioned within elongate bore  42  of coupler housing  32 . 
   Unitary valve  40  may include a biasing member  44  configured to bias the unitary valve into engagement with housing seat  43 . Unitary valve  40  may include a stabilizer  45  formed integral with biasing member  44  and configured to aid in the alignment of valve assembly  40 . A valve seat surface  46  may be formed integral with stabilizer  45  and biasing member  44  and configured to engage housing seat  43  to close unitary valve  40  and prevent leakage from the end of a tube connected therewith. Unitary valve  40  further includes a valve stem  48  formed integral with valve seat  46 , stabilizer  45 , and biasing member  44 . Valve stem  48  may be configured to receive a force opposing biasing member  44  to open unitary valve  40 , as will be explained in detail below. 
   Unitary valve  40  may include a retainer  50  configured to hold the unitary valve within fluid coupler housing  32 . Retainer  50  may include retainer prongs  51 . Fluid coupler housing  32  may include retainer detents  52  configured to receive retainer prongs  51  of retainer  50  and secure unitary valve  40  inside bore  42  of fluid coupler housing  32 . 
   Coupler housings  32  may include a barb  54  positioned near one end of each coupler housing and configured to aid in retaining a press fit tube that has been pressed onto the coupler housing. Each housing may also include a flange  56  configured to limit the distance that a press fit tube may extend over coupler housing  32 . A tube is fully press fit when the end of the tube abuts flange  56 . In the depicted embodiment, the tube seals off retainer detents  52  preventing fluid from escaping from these openings. It will be understood that this sealing function may not occur if detents  52  do not open up to the outside of housing  32 . 
   As depicted in  FIG. 5 , fluid coupler  30  is in a decoupled configuration. In the decoupled configuration valve seat  46  engages with housing seat  43  to block the flow of fluid out of the end of coupler housing  32 . Biasing member  44  applies a biasing force to valve seat  46  through stabilizer  45  to press valve seat  46  into housing seat  43  and seal the valve. Stabilizer  45  along with valve guides  60  act to limit the misalignment of unitary valve  40  with respect to bore  42  of coupler housing  32 . Valve stem  48  extends toward a coupling end of coupler housing  32  and is configured to cause the valve to open when valve stem  48  is engaged and pressed reward in the coupler housing by opposing valve stem  48 . 
     FIG. 6  depicts object fitting  12  and quick-release connector  14  in a connected configuration. In the connected configuration each fluid coupler is coupled and configured to permit fluid to flow through the coupler. A detailed view of the fluid coupler, illustrated uncoupled in  FIG. 5 , is shown in a coupled configuration in  FIG. 7 . Flow arrows  58  illustrate the fluid flow path through the coupled fluid coupler  30 . 
   In the coupled fluid coupler of  FIG. 7 , the coupling end of male housing  34  slides into the coupling end of female housing  36 . Initially, as the two housings  34  and  36  slide together, seal  38 , which may be an O-ring type seal or any other suitable sealing member, engages and seals the coupling ends of the two housing to prevent fluid leaks. As the two housings  34  and  36  slide further together valve stems  48  of each coupler housing  32  engage one another causing the two biasing members  44  to compress. Compressing biasing members  44  permits the rest of unitary valves  40  to slide away from the coupling ends of coupling housings  32 . As unitary valve  40  slides away from the coupling end of coupling housing  32 , valve seat  46  separates from housing seat  43  opening a path for fluid to flow through, as illustrated by flow arrows  58 . It will be understood that seal  38  seals the two housings prior to either unitary valve opening. 
     FIG. 8  illustrates the assembly of unitary valves  40 , male coupler housing  34 , and female coupler housing  36 . Valve stem  48  includes an X-shaped cross section, which allows opposed valve stems to engage as intended with an increased amount of misalignment between the opposed valve stems while maintaining an adequate flow passage. While valve stem  48  is shown with an X-shaped cross section it will be understood that other embodiments may employ other shapes. 
   As noted above, stabilizer  45  includes a series of radial fins extending radically from a central region. Stabilizer  45  includes a plurality of valve guides  60  positioned on the ends of fins and configured to engage the interior wall of bore  42  in coupler housing  32 . Engaging the interior wall of bore  42  in coupler housing  32  provides an alignment function for unitary valve  40 . The geometry of stabilizer  45  may be configured to provide a stabilizing function to the unitary valve, while minimizing the interference with fluid flow when the valve assembly is open. 
   In the depicted embodiment biasing member  44  of unitary valve  40  is a ribbon spring. Each ribbon spring may include a set of compression limits  62 . Compression limits  62  prevent either one of the ribbon springs in a coupler from being over compressed preventing the opposing valve from opening. For example, if one ribbon spring is less stiff than the opposing spring it will bottoms out on compression limits  62  first and the other spring will begin to compress as housings  34  and  36  are pressed further together. In this way, the other valve will fully unseat and open a flow path before male housing  34  is completely inserted into female housing  36 . Other configurations for biasing member  44  may be used including a coil type spring, an elastic member, or other structure capable of biasing the unitary valve. 
   Unitary valve  40  may be inserted into bore  42  in a tube-attaching end  63  of coupler housing  32 . When unitary valve  40  is fully inserted and the ribbon spring preloaded, retainer detents  52 , positioned close to tube-attaching end  63 , may be configured to receive retainer prong  51  extending from retainer  50 . This configuration holds the unitary valve in place inside the coupler housing. This process applies to both the male coupler housing and the female coupler housing. 
     FIG. 9  illustrates the misalignment interaction between coupler housing  32  and valve guides  60 . Semispherical valve guides  60  are positioned on stabilizer  45 , such that those points of valve guides  60  where contact with bore  42  may occur all lie on a theoretical valve guide spherical surface  66 . Valve seat  46  includes a spherical surface that lies in theoretical spherical surface  70   a  that is concentric with theoretical valve guide spherical surface  66 . Valve assembly  40  may function properly with larger tolerances between bore  42  of coupler housing  32  and valve guides  60  because of the concentric configuration of the contact points of valve guides  60  and valve seat surface, which lies in theoretical spherical surface  70   a.    
   For example, a misalignment that causes two of the valve guides  60  to contact bore  42  of the coupler housing can occur simultaneously with the surface of valve seat  46  fully engaging housing seat  43 , as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . That is to say, valve seat  46  will properly engage and prevent leakage even though unitary valve  40  is maximally misaligned, such misalignment being limited by one or more of valve guides  60  contacting the bore wall  42  of housing  32 . 
     FIGS. 11A to 14  provide additional embodiments of the fluid coupler. Said additional embodiments of the fluid coupler differ in biasing member type, and method of biasing member retention. The housing of said additional embodiments is segmental in order to enable the reception of the biasing member. Said segmental housings provide for a more stable longitudinal movement of the biasing member and unitary valve within the housing, wherein the longitudinal axis of the unitary valve remains parallel to the longitudinal axis of movement when coupling and decoupling the coupler. Additionally, the helical coil geometry of the biasing member, such as a spring, aids in the stable longitudinal movement of the biasing member and unitary valve within the coupler housing. Said stability of movement thus results in a more flush seal between unitary valve seal and the housing when the coupler is decoupled. This more robust seal of the unitary valve seal thus results in a reduction of leaks. Moreover, this design provides for fewer failures over prior art. 
     FIG. 11A  provides a cross sectional illustration of said additional embodiments of the fluid coupler, wherein the male and female couplers are coupled.  FIG. 11B , similarly, provides a cross sectional illustration of said additional embodiments of the fluid coupler, however here the male and female couplers are decoupled.  FIG. 12  illustrates in greater detail the segmented housing of the male coupler.  FIG. 13  illustrates an exploded cross sectional view of the male coupler. Lastly,  FIG. 14  illustrates the couplers of  FIGS. 11A and 11B  incorporated within an exemplary fluid circuit. Below is a more detailed description of the  FIGS. 11A to 14 . 
     FIG. 11A  shows a partially sectioned side view of a Joined Fluid Coupler  1100 , shown in a connected and open configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a Male Fluid Coupler  1110  may couple with a Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . In the connected configuration each fluid coupler is coupled and configured to permit fluid to flow through the Joined Fluid Coupler  1100 . A Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  may be inserted into a Receptacle  1141  of the Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . A Seal  1121  encircling the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  prevents fluid leaks from the junction of the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  and the Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . 
   In some embodiments, the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  may couple with the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  and decoupled indefinitely through pushing the couplers together and pulling them apart. In some alternative embodiments, the coupling of the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  and the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  may require torsional force or oblique forces to couple or decouple. 
   As the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  and the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  slide further together, the Valve Stem  1321  of each coupler housing engage one another causing two Biasing Members  1124  and  1134  to compress. Compressing Biasing Members  1124  and  1134  permits the rest of Unitary Valves  1122  and  1132  to slide away from the coupling ends of coupling housings. As each Unitary Valve  1122  and  1132  slides away from the coupling end of coupling housings, Seals  1123  and  1133  separate from the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and Annulus  1144 , respectively, opening a path for fluid to flow through. As stated earlier, the Seal  1121  seals the two housings prior to either unitary valve opening. 
   In some embodiments, Valve Stem  1321  includes an X-shaped cross section, which allows opposed valve stems to engage as intended with an increased amount of misalignment between the opposed valve stems while maintaining an adequate flow passage. Alternatively, in some embodiments other shapes of Valve Stem  1321  may be employed. 
   In some embodiments, Top Alignment Fins  1322  include a plurality of valve guides positioned on the ends of fins and configured to engage the interior wall of the cavity in coupler housing. Engaging the interior wall of cavity in coupler housing provides an alignment function for each Unitary Valve  1122  and  1132 . The geometry of top alignment fins may be configured to provide a stabilizing function to each Unitary Valve  1122  and  1132 , while minimizing the interference with fluid flow when the valve assembly is open. 
   The range of movement of each Biasing Members  1124  and  1134  of each Unitary Valve  1122  and  1132 , respectively, is restricted in a predetermined range. Such restrictions prevent either one of the Biasing Members  1124  and  1134  in a coupler from being over compressed, preventing the opposing Unitary Valve  1122  or  1132  from opening. For example, if one biasing member is less stiff than the opposing biasing member, the enlarged portion of the top alignment fins will bottom out against either the Annulus  1144 , or the narrow Bottom Opening  1215  of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111 , causing the stiffer biasing member to compress as Male Fluid Coupler  1110  and the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  are pressed further together. In this way, the other valve will fully unseat and open a flow path before Male Fluid Coupler  1110  is completely inserted into the Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . 
     FIG. 11B  shows a partially sectioned side view of the Fluid Coupler  1100  of  FIG. 11A , shown in a disconnected configuration. In this figure, the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  are engaged. In some embodiments, the threading of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  may be screwed into the complimentary threading of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . The Biasing Member  1124  may sit within the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 , wherein the base of the Biasing Member  1124  rests on the constriction of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . Such an embodiment enables the Biasing Member  1124  to be compressed, without the Biasing Member  1124  slipping out of the male fluid coupler housing through the bottom of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . 
   The Unitary Valve  1122  rests upon the top base of the Biasing Member  1124 . The Seal  1123  encircles the Unitary Valve  1122  by resting within the groove of the Unitary Valve  1122 . In some embodiments, the bottom alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1122  may rest within the resistive coils of the Biasing Member  1124  to ensure proper alignment of the Unitary Valve  1122  in relation to the Biasing Member  1124 . In some embodiments, the regions around the groove of the Unitary Valve  1122  may be enlarged as to prevent the Unitary Valve  1122  from slipping below the top base of the Biasing Member  1124  and into the resistive coils. 
   In some embodiments, the Unitary Valve  1122  remains in the space created by the coupling of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . In some embodiments, the Bottom of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  may be narrower and tapered than the rest of the cavity. Moreover, the enlargement of the top alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1122  prevents the movement of the Unitary Valve  1122  further into the cavity of Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . Likewise, the enlarged groove of the Unitary Valve  1122  may prevent the Unitary Valve  1122  from extending too far into the cavity of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111 . Therefore, the Unitary Valve  1122  may slide longitudinally within the space created by the coupling of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  with a predetermined and restrictive manner. The top alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1122  may stabilize said movement of the Unitary Valve  1122 . 
   In some embodiments, the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  may be assembled as to apply a longitudinally compressive force upon the Biasing Member  1124 . As a result the resistive coils may apply upward pressure upon the Unitary Valve  1122 , thus pushing the Unitary Valve  1122  upward and forcing the Seal  1123  encircling the Unitary Valve  1122  to come into contact with the tapered and narrower bottom opening of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111 . In doing so, the cavity is effectively blocked by the Unitary Valve  1122  and Seal  1123 , thereby preventing fluid flow through the Male Fluid Coupler  1110 . 
   In some embodiments, the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  may include a Receptacle  1141  on one end of its central cavity, and a Flow Valve  1143  on the opposite end of the central cavity. Under select circumstances, fluid may flow through the central cavity from the Receptacle  1141  end to the Flow Valve  1143 . The Receptacle  1141  may be configured to receive the Male Fluid Coupler  1110 . The Flow Valve  1143  may prevent backflow of the fluid through the Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . 
   In some embodiments, the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  includes a Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 , a Unitary Valve  1132 , a Biasing Member  1134 , a Seal  1133  and an Annulus  1144 . Fluid Coupler Housing  1131  may be encircled by Barbs  1142 , providing purchase for coupling of tubing to the Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . Tubing may be plastic, metal or alternate suitable material. Alternatively, in some embodiments, other methods of coupling tubing to the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131  may be utilized, such as glue, compression coupling or welding. Much like the Male Fluid Coupler  1110 , in some embodiments, the Annulus  1144  may be screwed into the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . The Biasing Member  1134  may sit within the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 , wherein the base of the Biasing Member  1134  rests on a constriction of the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . Such an embodiment enables the Biasing Member  1134  to be compressed, without the Biasing Member  1134  slipping out of the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131  through the bottom opening of the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . 
   The Unitary Valve  1132  rests upon the top of the Biasing Member  1134 . The Seal  1133  encircles the Unitary Valve  1132  by resting within a groove of the Unitary Valve  1132 . In some embodiments, the Unitary Valve  1132 , Biasing Member  1134 , and Seal  1133  may be identical to the Unitary Valve  1122 , Biasing Member  1124 , and Seal  1123  found in the Male Fluid Coupler  1110 , for ease of manufacturing. Alternatively, different geometries or materials may be utilized to effectuate distinct purposes. 
   In some embodiments, the bottom alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1132  may rest within the resistive coils of the Biasing Member  1134  to ensure proper alignment of the Unitary Valve  1132  in relation to the Biasing Member  1134 . In some embodiments, the regions around the groove of the Unitary Valve  1132  may be enlarged as to prevent the Unitary Valve  1132  from slipping into the Biasing Member  1134 . 
   In some embodiments, the Unitary Valve  1132  remains in the space created by the coupling of the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131  and the Annulus  1144 . The Annulus  1144  may be narrower and more tapered than the cavity of the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . The enlargement of the top alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1132  prevents the movement of the Unitary Valve  1132  further into the cavity of Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 . Likewise, the enlarged groove of the Unitary Valve  1132  may prevent the Unitary Valve  1132  from extending too far above the Annulus  1144 . Therefore, the Unitary Valve  1132  may slide longitudinally within the space created by the coupling of the Annulus  1144  and the Female Fluid Coupler Housing  1131 , within a predetermined and restrictive manner. The top alignment fins of the Unitary Valve  1132  may stabilize said movement of the Unitary Valve  1132 . 
   In some embodiments, the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  may be assembled as to apply a longitudinally compressive force upon the Biasing Member  1134 . As a result the Biasing Member  1134  may apply upward pressure upon the Unitary Valve  1132 , thus pushing the Unitary Valve  1132  upward and forcing the Seal  1133  encircling the Unitary Valve  1132  to come into contact with the tapered and narrower Annulus  1144 . In doing so, the cavity of the Female Fluid Coupler  1130  is effectively blocked by the Unitary Valve  1132  and Seal  1133 , thereby preventing fluid flow through the Female Fluid Coupler  1130 . 
     FIG. 12  shows a partially sectioned side view of a male Fluid Coupler Housing  1200  according to an embodiment of the present invention. The male Fluid Coupler Housing  1200  includes the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . In some embodiments the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  are two separate pieces, however, in some alternate embodiments they may be conjoined or of a single piece. 
   The Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  includes a Top Opening  1211 , which enabled fluid to flow through the center of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  to the Bottom Opening  1215  through a cavity. In some embodiments, the Bottom Opening  1215  may be narrower and tapered than the rest of the cavity. Additionally, in some embodiments, an Outer Ridge  1212  and an Inner Ridge  1213  may encircle the circumference of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111 . A groove may exist between the Outer Ridge  1212  and the Inner Ridge  1213 . The base of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  may include helical Threads  1214  for coupling the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  to the remainder of the male fluid coupler housing. Alternatively, in some embodiments, other fastening methods, such as welding, compression fitting or glue may be utilized to attach the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  to the remainder of the male fluid coupler housing. 
   The Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  may include a Top Opening  1221  which enabled fluid to flow through the center of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  to the Bottom Opening  1225  through a cavity. The Top Opening  1221  may include helical threading for receiving the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111 . As stated earlier, other fastening methods, such as welding, compression fitting or glue may be utilized to attach the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  to the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . 
   In some embodiments, a Ridge  1222  may encircle the circumference of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more wedge shaped ridges, or Barbs  1223 , may encircle the circumference of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  providing purchase for coupling of tubing to the Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 . Tubing may be plastic, metal or alternate suitable material. Alternatively, in some embodiments, other methods of coupling tubing to the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  may be utilized, such as glue, compression coupling or welding. 
   In some embodiments, the interior cavity of the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112  may narrow at a Constriction  1224 . Such a Constriction  1224  may be utilized to restrain a Biasing Member  1124  within the male fluid coupler housing. 
     FIG. 13  shows an exploded assembly view of the Male Fluid Coupler  1110  according to an embodiment of the present invention. The Male Fluid Coupler  1110  includes the coupler housings, including the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Top  1111  and the Male Fluid Coupler Housing Bottom  1112 , a Unitary Valve  1122 , the Biasing Member  1124 , and two Seals  1121  and  1123 . Seals  1121  and  1123  may be integrated into the Male Fluid Coupler  1110 , or in some embodiments may be separate components. In some of these embodiments, Seals  1121  and  1123  may include rubber O-type rings, polytetrafluoroethylene washers, or any other suitable sealer. 
   The Biasing Member  1124  may be a helical spring, ribbon spring, piston or any other member capable of exerting force. Additionally, in some embodiments, the Biasing Member  1124  may include a metal, plastic or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the Biasing Member  1124  may include Bases  1341  and  1343 . Resistive Coils  1342  of the Biasing Member  1124  may exert an outward longitudinal force against the Bases  1341  and  1343  when under a compressive force. 
   The Unitary Valve  1122  may include a Valve Stem  1321 . Top Alignment Fins  1322  and Bottom Alignment Fins  1324  are coupled to the Valve Stem  1321  to ensure that the Unitary Valve  1122  remains stable within the coupler housing. Additionally, in some embodiments, a Groove  1323  may exist between the Top Alignment Fins  1322  and Bottom Alignment Fins  1324 . 
     FIG. 14  shows a sectional side view of the Fluid Circuit Connection System  1400  including the Fluid Coupler  1100  of  FIG. 11A , according to an embodiment of the present invention. Although useful for a variety of fluid circuit systems, the illustrated embodiment is shown in the context of a contrast therapy wrap. Fluid Circuit Connection System  1400  includes an Object Fitting  1410 , which may be connected to a contrast therapy applicator, such as a pad or wrap. The Contrast therapy applicator may be any of a variety of contrast therapy applicators including arm wraps, leg wraps, waist wraps, shoulder wraps, and pads for applying therapy to various sore body parts. Object Fitting  1410  may be configured to receive a Quick-Release Connector  1430  attached to one end of a Set of Tubes  1440 . At the other end of Tube Set  1440  is another Quick-Release Connector  1450  configured to connect to a Source Fitting  1460 . Source Fitting  1460  connects the fluid circuit to a source of hot and cold fluid for circulation. 
   It will be understood that in the illustrated embodiment both Quick-Release Connectors  1410  and  1450  may be used to attach to either Object Fitting  1410  or Source Fitting  1460 . Other embodiments of the present invention may have Quick-Release Connectors  1410  and  1450  that may be fitting specific. For example, a quick-release connector configured to attach to Object Fitting  1410  may not connect to Source Fitting  1460  and vice versa. This may be desirable for enabling the use of a contrast therapy fluid supply with a variety of therapy wraps and pads that may have different types and or sizes of object fittings. 
   The Object Fitting  1410  may include a Housing  1411 , Fluid Channels  1412 , a Female Fluid Coupler  1130   a  and Male Fluid Coupler  1110   a . The Fluid Channels  1412  may include plastic or rubber tubing, or may be integrated into the Housing  1411 . The Housing  1411  may be injection molded, carved, compacted with sintering, rotational molded, thermoformed, or any other suitable manufacturing process. Additionally, the Housing  1411  may be plastic, metal, ceramic, wood or any other suitable material. 
   The Object Fitting  1410  may be coupled with the Quick-Release Connector  1430  along the illustrated Path  1420 . The Quick-Release Connector  1430  includes a Housing  1431 , Fluid Channels  1442 , a Female Fluid Coupler  1130   b  and Male Fluid Coupler  1110   b . It may be seen that the Female Fluid Coupler  1130   b  engages the Male Fluid Coupler  1110   a  located on the Object Fitting  1410 ; and likewise, the Male Fluid Coupler  1110   b  is engaged by the Female Fluid Coupler  1130   a  located on the Object Fitting  1410 . Such a coupling arrangement ensures proper fitting and correct fluid directional flow. The Housing  1431  may be injection molded, carved, compacted with sintering, rotational molded, thermoformed, or any other suitable manufacturing process. Additionally, the Housing  1431  may be plastic, metal, ceramic, wood or any other suitable material. 
   The Fluid Channels  1442  may include plastic or rubber tubing, or may be integrated into the Housing  1431 . The Fluid Channels  1442  may exit the Housing  1431  and extend any desired distance, as illustrated at  1441 . Tube Set  1440  includes the Fluid Channels  1442 , extending along  1441 . In the Tube Set  1440 , the Fluid Channels  1442  may be fused together, or may be surrounded by a common sheath, as to minimize the possibility of tangles and general visual clutter. 
   The Fluid Channels  1442  enter the Quick-Release Connector  1450 . The Quick-Release Connector  1450  includes a Housing  1451 , Fluid Channels  1442 , a female fluid coupler and male fluid coupler. The female fluid coupler and male fluid coupler may be seen engaging their complementary male fluid coupler and female fluid coupler, respectively, located in the Source Fitting  1460 , resulting in Joined Fluid Couplers  1100 . The Housing  1451  may be injection molded, carved, compacted with sintering, rotational molded, thermoformed, or any other suitable manufacturing process. Additionally, the Housing  1451  may be plastic, metal, ceramic, wood or any other suitable material. Moreover, the Fluid Channels  1442  may include plastic or rubber tubing, or may be integrated into the Housing  1451 . 
   Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, modifications and variations may be made to the disclosed embodiments while remaining within the subject and spirit of the invention. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the versions contained herein.