Patent Description:
When diagnosing and treating various bodily ailments, such as shock or cardiovascular problems, medical personnel often find it desirable to measure and/or monitor a patient's blood pressure. By monitoring the blood pressure medical personnel are better able to detect blood flow difficulties and other cardiovascular problems at an early stage. As a result, the use of blood pressure measurement and monitoring devices can increase the likelihood that a patient be successfully treated or provided with needed emergency assistance.

A variety of methods are currently used for measuring and monitoring blood pressure. For example, medical personnel frequently use various indirect blood pressure measurement techniques, such as measuring a patient's blood pressure by using a pressure cuff and a stethoscope. In addition, blood pressure measurements are often made using a number of direct measurement and monitoring techniques. Notably, when diagnosing and treating critically ill patients, such direct techniques are generally preferred over any of the indirect techniques. Direct blood pressure measurement and monitoring techniques are generally accurate to within about one percent, and facilitate the continuous monitoring of a patient's blood pressure on a beat-to-beat basis. Direct blood pressure monitoring also enables the rapid detection of a change in cardiovascular activity, which may be of significant importance in emergency situations. The direct measurement method has been more widely used than the indirect measurement method with respect to a patient who is being treated in an operating room or intensive care unit. This is because blood pressure can be measured at the same time as execution of blood operations such as sampling of blood and injection of medicine. Furthermore, high-precision measurement of the blood pressure can be realized and long-time continuous monitoring can be enabled.

In direct blood pressure monitoring systems, a catheter is inserted into a patient's circulatory system with the end of the catheter having an opening to the blood stream, typically in a major or peripheral blood vessel. set attaches to the proximal end of the catheter protruding from the patient so that a solution flows through the catheter and into the patient. solution provides a fluid "column" through which pressure pulses are transmitted, and a pressure transducer positioned along the fluid column monitors those pressure pulses.

In the past, the pressure transducer consisted of a dome that functions as a reservoir for the I. The dome includes a resilient diaphragm that attaches to an electrical transducer. The transducer senses pressure fluctuations in the diaphragm and converts them into electrical signals which then transmit through a cable to a monitor for amplification and display. In modern systems a single silicon chip comprises both the pressure diaphragm and the measuring circuitry of the pressure transducer. Since such silicon chips are cheaply mass-produced, the total cost of pressure transducers is reduced to the extent that the transducer becomes economically disposable. Such disposable blood pressure transducers (DPTs) are the standard of care in the OR, ICU, or CCU.

<CIT> describes an improved flush-valve assembly for a blood pressure measurement catheter. A resilient valve core, biased against its seat in a molded body, controls large volumes for flushing. A small resilient tube embedded in the core bypasses the valve to provide smaller flow volumes for IV-fluid drip.

The present application discloses several pressure transducers and methods of assembling and using pressure transducers. In one example, a pressure transducer assembly directly monitors a pressure in a fluid that flows through the assembly. The pressure transducer can include a housing with an integral flow restrictor, an inlet port, and an outlet port.

In one example, a pressure transducer assembly includes a housing, a poppet, and a flow restrictor. The housing comprises a flow restrictor, an inlet port, and an outlet port. The poppet is coupled with the housing. The flow restrictor is defined by a valve seat between the inlet port and the outlet port.

In one exemplary method of flushing a pressure transducer, a fluid flows through a first flow path. The first flow path includes an inlet port, a flow restrictor, and an outlet port. The flow restrictor is disposed on a valve seat of a housing of the pressure transducer. A poppet is decoupled from the valve seat of the housing. This decoupling allows the fluid to
travel through a second flow path. The second flow path includes the inlet port, a by-pass channel, and the outlet port.

To further clarify various aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the certain embodiments will be made by reference to various aspects of the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, while the figures can be drawn to scale for some embodiments, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale for all embodiments. Embodiments and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:.

The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments having different structures and operation do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to devices and methods for remodeling the shape of one or more walls of a human heart. It should be noted that various embodiments of devices and systems for delivery are disclosed herein, and any combination of these options can be made unless specifically excluded. In other words, individual components of the disclosed devices and systems can be combined unless mutually exclusive or otherwise physically impossible.

As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as between the components or may be indirect such as through the use of one or more intermediary components. Also, as described herein, reference to a "member," "component," or "portion" shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element but can include an assembly of components, members, or elements. Also, as described herein, the terms "substantially" and "about" are defined as at least close to (and includes) a given value or state (preferably within <NUM>% of, more preferably within <NUM>% of, and most preferably within <NUM>% of).

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, various components of a prior art disposable blood pressure transducing device (DPT) <NUM> are illustrated. The DPT <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, a cable <NUM> extending from one end of the housing <NUM> and terminating in an electrical connector <NUM>, and a multi-port stopcock assembly <NUM>. Although not shown in these figures, an internal flow channel in the stopcock assembly <NUM> leads to a short length of tubing <NUM> situated on a top side of the housing <NUM> opposite a mounting plate <NUM>. The mounting plate <NUM> can engage walls in the mounting bracket (not shown), such that the tubing <NUM> faces outward from the mounting bracket. The DPT <NUM> can be connected to an external sterilized-liquid supply source (not shown) via its connection to inlet opening <NUM>. The DPT <NUM> also includes a poppet <NUM>, which is capable of flushing the DPT <NUM> of fluid. The DPT <NUM> is capable of limiting the flow rate of a liquid, including sterilized liquid saline solution or the like, from the external sterilized-liquid supply source (not shown).

Not shown in <FIG> are the associated components of the pressure monitoring system that connect to the DPT <NUM>. Typically, a signal receiving device such as a patient or cardiac output monitor includes cables and connectors that mate with the connector <NUM> and receive electrical signals indicative of fluid pressure detected by the DPT <NUM>. Various monitors are available for this purpose and will not be further described herein, except below in the context of an interface feature of the present invention that permits identification by the monitor of the characteristics of the DPT <NUM>.

Additionally, an in-dwelling catheter that provides the particular fluid to be measured attaches to one of the ports of the stopcock assembly <NUM>, typically the port in line with the DPT <NUM> that is fitted with a luer connector. Many catheters may be used for pressure monitoring, and the specifics are well known in the art. Furthermore, the term "catheter" as used herein refers to any elongated structure for accessing a body cavity such as a blood vessel and provides a conduit through which fluid may pass. In the preferred embodiment, a saline solution provides a fluid "column" through which pressure pulses from the catheter lumen are transmitted, and a pressure transducer positioned along the fluid column monitors those pressure pulses. Devices for providing such access include cannulas, needles, sheaths, introducers, and other such structures, typically tubular.

Now with reference to <FIG>, a housing <NUM> of the DPT <NUM> contains several components that are bonded or otherwise coupled together. The housing <NUM> includes a fluid chamber <NUM> and a pressure sensor <NUM>, which extends from the housing <NUM> into the fluid chamber <NUM>. The DPT <NUM> includes a cap <NUM> that secures the poppet <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. The cap <NUM> can be made from a polycarbonate material that is ultrasonically welded to the housing <NUM>.

The DPT <NUM> includes a poppet <NUM> and a capillary tube <NUM>. The capillary tube <NUM> is bonded to an internal wall <NUM> of housing <NUM> with UV adhesive. The capillary <NUM> has a controlled flow rate for which the fluid A travels therethrough from the inlet channel <NUM> to the outlet channel <NUM>. The DPT <NUM> comprises a by-pass channel <NUM> between the inlet channel <NUM> and outlet channel <NUM>.

The poppet <NUM> can seal or close off the fluid chamber <NUM> from the by-pass channel <NUM>. The fluid A entering inlet channel <NUM> from an external source (not shown) must pass through the capillary tube <NUM> to the fluid chamber <NUM>. When the by-pass channel <NUM> is sealed, the fluid A travels through the capillary tube <NUM> at a continuous and slow rate in order to prevent the fluid from coagulating in the blood circuit. The capillary tube <NUM> restricts the flow rate of the fluid A. The size and shape of the capillary tube correspond to a desired flow rate.

When the poppet <NUM> is pulled away from the housing <NUM> in a direction B, the poppet <NUM> allows the by-pass channel <NUM> to be in fluid communication with the inlet channel <NUM> and the outlet channel <NUM>. The fluid A from the external supply source flows through the by-pass channel <NUM> and into the outlet channel <NUM>. The flow through the by-pass channel allows for fast-flow flushing of the DPT <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a disposable pressure transducer (DPT) <NUM>. The DPT <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. In the example illustrated by <FIG>, the DPT <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, a poppet <NUM>, and a pressure sensor <NUM>.

In one exemplary embodiment, the DPT <NUM> does not include a capillary tube <NUM> (See Prior Art <FIG>). Instead, a flow restrictor <NUM> is integrally formed by one or more of a poppet <NUM> and a portion of a housing <NUM>. Such a flow restrictor <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the flow restrictor can be formed at an interface of the poppet <NUM> and a valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, such as a flow channel in a surface of the valve seat <NUM>, a flow channel in a surface of the poppet <NUM>, or a flow channel or passage defined by both the valve seat <NUM> and the poppet <NUM>. The integral flow restrictor <NUM> can also be a passage or passages through the housing <NUM>, such as a passage or passages through a portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> below the valve seat <NUM>, or a passage or passage through the poppet <NUM>, such as a passage that extends from the inlet port <NUM> to the outlet port <NUM>. Any structure that is integral with the poppet <NUM> and/or housing <NUM> that replaces the capillary function of the prior separate capillary tube can be used.

The housing <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the housing <NUM> includes an inlet passage <NUM>, an outlet passage <NUM>, a valve seat <NUM>, and a poppet cavity <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, when the poppet <NUM> is closed against the valve seat <NUM>, fluid can flow slowly from the inlet passage <NUM>, through the flow restrictor <NUM>, and out the outlet passage <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, when the poppet <NUM> is open, fluid can flow rapidly from the inlet passage <NUM>, through the poppet cavity <NUM> (in the space between the poppet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>), and out the outlet passage <NUM>.

The inlet passage <NUM>, outlet passage <NUM>, and valve seat <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the valve seat <NUM> includes an inlet port <NUM> and/or an outlet port <NUM>. In one exemplary embodiment, the inlet port <NUM> is in fluid communication with the inlet passage <NUM>, the poppet cavity <NUM>, and the flow restrictor <NUM>. In one exemplary embodiment, the outlet port <NUM> is in fluid communication with the outlet passage <NUM>, the poppet cavity <NUM>, and the flow restrictor <NUM>.

The inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM> can be perpendicular or generally perpendicular to surface of the valve seat <NUM> as illustrated by the example of <FIG>. The inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM> can extend at an angle into the poppet cavity <NUM> as illustrated by the example of <FIG>. The inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM> can be inward of an outer periphery <NUM> of the valve seat <NUM>, like the inlet port <NUM> illustrated by <FIG> and <FIG>. The inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM> can extend to the outer periphery <NUM>, like the inlet and outlet ports <NUM>,<NUM> illustrated by <FIG> and the outlet port <NUM> illustrated by <FIG> and <FIG>. One or both of the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM> can be configured to be sealed off by the poppet <NUM>, when the poppet <NUM> is closed, like the inlet port <NUM> illustrated by <FIG> and the inlet and outlet ports illustrated by <FIG>. One of the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM> can be configured to be unsealed (i.e. not blocked off) by the poppet <NUM>, when the poppet <NUM> is closed, like the outlet port <NUM> illustrated by <FIG>.

The poppet <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the poppet <NUM> includes a sealing portion <NUM>, an actuator or control portion <NUM>, a mounting portion <NUM>, and a flexing portion <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> is connected to the housing <NUM> by securing the mounting portion <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. The sealing portion <NUM> is connected to the mounting portion <NUM> by the flexing portion <NUM>. The sealing portion <NUM> is also connected to the actuator or control portion <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, in one exemplary embodiment the flexing portion <NUM> biases the sealing portion <NUM> against the valve seat <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> is opened by pulling on the actuator or control portion <NUM>. This pulls the sealing portion <NUM> away from the valve seat <NUM> and flexes the flexing portion <NUM>. When the actuator or control portion <NUM> is released, the flexing portion <NUM> returns the sealing portion <NUM> to engagement with the valve seat <NUM>.

The DPT <NUM> includes a pressure sensor <NUM> to measure the fluid pressure in the outlet channel <NUM>. The pressure sensor can take a wide variety of different forms. In one exemplary embodiment, the pressure sensor is a silicon pressure sensor that can have a thin monocrystalline silicon diaphragm. The pressure sensor can have four terminals. Acceptable silicon pressure sensors are commercially available from Motorola, Inc. More details on acceptable pressure transducers are disclosed in <CIT>, and <CIT>. The pressure sensor can include a temperature compensation circuit for compensating the sensed pressure in the fluid based upon the temperature of the fluid.

Referring to <FIG>, the inlet channel <NUM> in fluid communication with the inlet port <NUM> and an external liquid source (not shown), such as an intra venous bag filled with fluid. The inlet channel <NUM> extends from an inlet opening <NUM> to the inlet port <NUM>. The outlet channel <NUM> is in fluid communication with the outlet port <NUM>. The outlet channel <NUM> can extend from the outlet port <NUM> to an optional stopcock assembly <NUM> (See <FIG>).

With reference to <FIG>, the DPT <NUM> is in the "engaged or closed state" where the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> is coupled with or sealed against valve seat <NUM>, to seal off the inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM>. In the configuration illustrated by <FIG>, in the "engaged state" a face <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> seals against the valve seat <NUM>, around the inlet port <NUM>, to seal off the inlet port <NUM>. In the configuration illustrated by <FIG>, in the "engaged state" an annular surface <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> seals against the valve seat <NUM>, around the inlet port <NUM> and around the outlet port <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the fluid A' travels through the first flow path C, from the inlet channel <NUM> to the outlet channel <NUM>, via the flow restrictor <NUM>, when the poppet <NUM> is engaged with the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

In various embodiments, in the "engaged state" where the poppet <NUM> seals with the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, fluid A' from an external source (not shown) is in communication with a first flow path C and to the outlet channel <NUM>. The fluid A' in first flow path C can flow through various structures, including the inlet channel <NUM>, inlet port <NUM>, flow restrictor <NUM>, outlet port <NUM>, and outlet channel <NUM>. As long as the pressure in the inlet <NUM> is higher than the pressure in the outlet <NUM> to a sufficient degree to flow through the restrictor, the fluid A' in first flow path C flows from the external source through the inlet channel <NUM> and to the inlet port <NUM>. The fluid A' in first flow path C then travels from the inlet port <NUM> through the flow restrictor <NUM>. The fluid A' in first flow path C then travels through the outlet port <NUM> and through the outlet channel <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the flow of the fluid A' in first flow path C is restricted due to the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> being coupled with the valve seat <NUM>. This coupling closes the by-pass space <NUM> (<FIG>) of the poppet cavity <NUM>. As a result, the flow restrictor <NUM> is the only way for the fluid A' to travel from the inlet port <NUM> to the outlet port <NUM>. In various embodiments, the flow restrictor <NUM> is formed from the same portion of the housing <NUM> that forms the valve seat <NUM>. The flow restrictor <NUM> can slow or otherwise control the rate at which the fluid A' enters the outlet port <NUM>. The slow, restricted flow prevents fluid from coagulating in the DPT and an intravenous line that is connected to the DPT.

A wide variety of flow rates through the restrictor <NUM> can be selected. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/hr to about <NUM> cc/hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/hr to about <NUM> cc/hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/hr to about <NUM> cc/hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/hr to about <NUM> cc/hr. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C can have a flow rate of about <NUM> cc/hr or <NUM> cc/hr.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the DPT <NUM> is in the "disengaged state" and is configured to allow fluid A' to flow in a second flow path C' from the inlet channel <NUM> through the by-pass passage <NUM> (between the sealing portion <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>) of the poppet cavity <NUM>, to the outlet channel <NUM>. To place the DPT in the "disengaged state," the actuator or shaft <NUM> is pulled in the direction D. The actuator or shaft <NUM> pulls the sealing portion <NUM> away from the valve seat and flexes the flexible portion <NUM>. The resulting space between the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM> comprises the by-pass channel <NUM> through which fluid A' can flow through and flush the DPT <NUM>.

The second flow path C' can include the inlet channel <NUM>, inlet port <NUM>, by-pass channel <NUM>, outlet port <NUM>, and outlet channel <NUM>. In various embodiments, in the disengaged state, the flow path B' can include the flow restrictor <NUM>, since a portion of the fluid A' can still flow through the flow restrictor <NUM>.

As mentioned above, the by-pass channel <NUM> comprises a space defined by the poppet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The fluid A' flowing through flow path C' can result in fast-flow flushing and over-pressure relief of the DPT <NUM>. The by-pass channel <NUM> can be various sizes based on the how far the popped <NUM> is pulled in direction D from the valve seat <NUM>. For example, if the poppet <NUM> is pulled from the valve seat <NUM> with less force, then the volume of the by-pass channel <NUM> will not be as large and the resulting amount fluid A' traveling through the by-pass channel <NUM> will be less. Conversely, if the poppet <NUM> is pulled from the housing <NUM> with a greater force, then the by-pass channel <NUM> will be a greater volume and the resulting amount of fluid A' traveling through the by-pass channel <NUM> will increase. The amount of fluid A' traveling through the by-pass channel <NUM> to the outlet channel <NUM>, and the flow rate thereof, can therefore be proportional to the size of the by-pass channel <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/ min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/ min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/ min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/ min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/ min to about <NUM> cc/min. In various embodiments, the fluid A' traveling through the first flow path C' can have a flow rate of about <NUM> cc/min.

As mentioned above, the flow restrictor <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the presently claimed invention, the flow restrictor <NUM> comprises a flow restrictor channel <NUM>. In the presently claimed invention, the flow restrictor channel <NUM> extends into the valve seat <NUM>, as illustrated. In other examples, the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can extend into the face <NUM> of the poppet <NUM>. The flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be a variety of shapes and have a variety of lengths, widths, and depths to best optimize the flow rate of the fluid A' flowing through. For example, in cross section, the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can comprise a rounded, rectangular, or trapezoidal shape. The flow restrictor <NUM> can include a predetermined shape, length, width, or depth, or combination thereof, based on the flow rate of the fluid A' desired.

With reference to <FIG>, the flow restrictor <NUM> can have numerous turns to increase the length of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>. Increasing the length of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> decreases the flow rate through the flow restrictor. As such, for a set or desired flow rate, a size or cross-sectional area of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be increased if the length of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> is also increased. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of the flow restrictor channel is between <NUM> and <NUM> times the distance <NUM> between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>, such as between <NUM> and <NUM> times the distance <NUM> between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>, such as between <NUM> and <NUM> times the distance <NUM> between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a top view of the valve seat <NUM> of the DPT <NUM> in the engaged state is illustrated, where the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> (illustrated as a dotted line) presses against the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In the engaged state, the fluid A' traveling from the inlet port <NUM> continuously flows through the first flow path C through the flow restrictor channel <NUM> to the outlet port <NUM>.

In various embodiments, and with reference to <FIG>, in the engaged state, end surface <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> presses against the valve seat <NUM> and seals off the inlet port <NUM>. However, the end surface <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> does not seal off the outlet port <NUM>. As a result, when a predetermined pressure (referred to as "overpressure") is provided in the inlet channel <NUM>, the "overpressure" acts on the end surface <NUM> and forces the sealing portion <NUM> upward. This opens the poppet <NUM> to allow fluid A' to allow for flow through the bypass channel <NUM> (See <FIG>) to the outlet port <NUM> (See <FIG>) and thereby reduce the pressure in the inlet channel. As such, the poppet <NUM> can be opened both by pulling on the actuator or shaft <NUM> and by application of an overpressure to the inlet channel <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a top view of the DPT <NUM> configuration of <FIG> in the disengaged state is illustrated. The sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> moved away from the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the volume of the by-pass channel <NUM> is determined by the distance between the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>. In the disengaged state, the fluid A' from the inlet port <NUM> flows through the by-pass channel <NUM> via the second flow path C' to the outlet port <NUM> at a greater rate than that of in the engaged state.

In various embodiments, and with reference to <FIG>, in the engaged state, end surface <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> presses against the valve seat <NUM> and seals off the outlet port <NUM>. However, the end surface <NUM> of the sealing portion <NUM> does not seal off the outlet port <NUM>. As a result, when a predetermined pressure (referred to as "overpressure") is provided in the outlet channel <NUM>, the "overpressure" acts on the end surface <NUM> and forces the sealing portion <NUM> upward. This opens the poppet <NUM> to allow fluid A' to allow for backflow (flow in the direction opposite to the arrows of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>) through the bypass channel <NUM> (See <FIG>) to the inlet port <NUM> and thereby reduce the pressure in the outlet channel <NUM>. As such, the poppet <NUM> can be opened both by pulling on the actuator or shaft <NUM> and by application of an overpressure to the outlet channel <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a top view of the DPT <NUM> of the <FIG> configuration in the disengaged state is illustrated. The sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> moved away from the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the volume of the by-pass channel <NUM> is determined by the distance between the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>. In the disengaged state, the fluid A' from the inlet port <NUM> flows through the by-pass channel <NUM> via the second flow path C' to the outlet port <NUM> at a greater rate than that of in the engaged state.

The path of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. <FIG> illustrates another path of a flow restrictor channel <NUM>. The flow restrictor channel <NUM> of the flow restrictor <NUM> can have a snake-like shape with any number of turns. The length, width, and depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be predetermined to coincide with a specific flow rate, for a specific pressure differential between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>. Holding the width and depth constant, increasing the length of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> results in a slower flow rate of the fluid A' through the flow restrictor <NUM>. Conversely, the length of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be decreased if a faster flow rate is preferred. In various embodiments, the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can have a direct path between the inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM>. However, the cross-sectional are of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> will decrease to accommodate the shorter path.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, various profiles of projections <NUM> used to mold the flow restrictor channel <NUM> of the flow restrictor <NUM> are shown. The flow restrictor channel <NUM> of the flow restrictor <NUM> can be molded using projections of various sizes and shapes, resulting in shapes of the flow restrictor corresponding to that of the pins. It should be apparent that the top <NUM> of the molded flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be larger than the base of the flow restrictor projection. In <FIG>, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> (i.e. the height of the projection <NUM>) is greater than the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> (based on the width of the projection <NUM>). In <FIG>, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> (i.e. the height of the projection <NUM>) is less than the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> (based on the width of the projection <NUM>).

In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the depth of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be <NUM> (<NUM> inches).

In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be between <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and <NUM> (<NUM> inches). In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> can be <NUM> (<NUM> inches).

In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> is greater than its depth. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d1) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w1) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ1) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d2) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w2) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ2) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d3) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w3) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ3) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d4) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w4) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ4) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d5) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w5) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ5) of <NUM>°.

With reference to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> exerts a force on the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In various embodiments, the force that the poppet <NUM> exerts on the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM> (i.e. the "pre-load") can have an effect on the flow rate of fluid A' through the flow restrictor <NUM>. For example, the sealing portion <NUM> can be made from a soft and/or flexible material that can comprise one or more of rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc. This soft material can push into the flow restrictor channel <NUM>. As a result, the cross-sectional area of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> is reduced, reducing the flow rate through the channel <NUM>.

As the pre-load of the poppet <NUM> on the valve seat <NUM> increases, the flow rate of fluid A' through the flow restrictor <NUM> decreases. For example, with a smaller pre-load, the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> may rest on the valve seat <NUM> such that the sealing portion <NUM> does not enter any portion of the flow restrictor channel <NUM>. However, as the pre-load increases, the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM>, which may be deformable, may be pushed into a portion of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> and decrease the volume of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> that the fluid A' can travel through. This can result in a slower flow rate of fluid A' through the flow restrictor <NUM>. The deformation of the poppet material into the channel can be affected by a variety of factors, including the width of the flow restrictor channel, the composition of the poppet <NUM>, the composition of the housing <NUM>, the force at which the poppet is pressed against the valve seat.

With reference to <FIG>, the relationship between the flow rate (Sccm) and the pre-load of the poppet (lbs) is shown for the channel <NUM> made from the projection depicted in <FIG>. As mentioned above, in Figure C the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d3) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w3) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ3) of <NUM>°. In one exemplary embodiment, the projection illustrated by <FIG> makes the channel <NUM> illustrated at the top of <FIG>, which has a depth that is greater than the width. At a pre-load of <NUM> lbs, the flow rate is about <NUM> Sccm. At a preload of <NUM> lbs, the flow rate of is about <NUM> Sccm.

In various embodiments, the width of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> is greater than its depth. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d6) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w6) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ6) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel 174b' has a depth (d7) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w7) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ7) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel <NUM> has a depth (d8) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w8) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ8) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel 174i has a depth (d9) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w9) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ9) of <NUM>°. With reference to <FIG>, the projection <NUM> used to make the flow restrictor channel 174j has a depth (d10) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w10) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ10) of <NUM>°.

With reference to <FIG>, the relationship between the flow rate (Sccm) and the pre-load of the poppet (lbs) is shown for a flow restrictor channel <NUM> having a depth (d11) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), a width (w11) of <NUM> (<NUM> inches), and an angle (θ11) of <NUM>°. As such, the flow restrictor has a width that is greater than the depth. At a pre-load of about <NUM> lbs, the flow rate through the flow restrictor channel is about <NUM> Sccm. At a preload of about <NUM> lbs, the flow rate is about <NUM> Sccm.

With reference to <FIG>, the body <NUM> of the presently claimed DPT <NUM> includes a ramp <NUM> between the flow restrictor channel <NUM> and the inlet port <NUM> and/or outlet port <NUM>. In various embodiments, the ramp <NUM> connects the flow restrictor channel <NUM> to a recess <NUM> that is connected to the inlet <NUM>. In various embodiments, the ramp <NUM> can connect the flow restrictor channel <NUM> to an outlet recess that is connected to an outlet port <NUM>. The optional inlet recess <NUM> and/or an outlet recess can be built into the housing <NUM> and surround the inlet port <NUM> and outlet port <NUM>, respectively. The ramp <NUM> can increase the space for the fluid A' to travel into the flow restrictor channel <NUM>. The extra space provided by ramp <NUM> can reduce the risk of a blockage of the entrance or exit of the flow restrictor channel <NUM> caused by load that presses the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet into the inlet port <NUM> and/or the outlet port <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a mold having an insert <NUM> can be used to form various portions of the DPT <NUM>. For example, with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the mold insert <NUM> can be used to create one or more of the inlet port <NUM>, inlet recess <NUM>, an inlet ramp <NUM>, the flow restrictor channel <NUM>. The mold insert <NUM> can also be used to create an outlet recess, an outlet port <NUM>, an outlet ramp, and an outlet port <NUM>. The mold insert <NUM> can include a pin <NUM> that corresponds to, and is the negative of, at least one of inlet port <NUM> and the outlet port <NUM> of the DPT <NUM>. The mold <NUM> can include a shoulder or ring <NUM> that corresponds to, and is the negative of, at least one of inlet recess <NUM> and an outlet recess of the DPT <NUM>. The mold insert <NUM> can include a ramp portion <NUM> that corresponds to, and is the negative of, the ramp <NUM> of the DPT <NUM>. The mold <NUM> can include an elevated tortuous projection <NUM> to correspond to, and is the negative of, the flow restrictor channel <NUM> of the DPT <NUM>.

The poppet <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. The sealing portion <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms and can be made from a wide variety of different materials. The sealing portion <NUM> can be configured such that an end face <NUM> of the seal portion provides the seal (See <FIG>) or such that an outer circumferential portion <NUM> provides the seal. The seal portion can be made of a single material or a portion of the sealing portion <NUM> that makes contact with the valve seat <NUM> can be made from a first, sealing material, and other portions of the sealing portion <NUM> can be made from another material. one or more of rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc..

The flexing portion <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. The flexing portion <NUM> can be integrally formed with the sealing portion <NUM> as illustrated, or the flexing portion <NUM> can be a separate component that presses the sealing portion <NUM> against the valve seat <NUM>. In one exemplary embodiment, a void <NUM> creates flexing portion <NUM>. The flexing portion <NUM> can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, the flexing portion <NUM> can be made from one or more of rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc..

The actuator <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. The actuator <NUM> can have the illustrated shaft configuration or can have any configuration that allows a user to move the sealing portion from the closed position to the open position. The actuator <NUM> can be integrally formed with the sealing portion <NUM> as illustrated, or the actuator <NUM> can be a separate component that is connected to the sealing portion. The flexing portion <NUM> can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, the flexing portion <NUM> can be made from one or more of metal, rigid plastic, rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc..

The mounting portion <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. In the illustrated examples, the mounting portion <NUM> is both used to secure the poppet to the housing <NUM> and seal the poppet <NUM> in the poppet cavity. The mounting portion <NUM> can have the illustrated ring configuration or can have any configuration that facilitates securing the poppet to the housing <NUM> and sealing of the poppet <NUM> in the poppet cavity. The mounting portion <NUM> can be integrally formed with the flexing portion <NUM> as illustrated, or the mounting portion <NUM> can be a separate component that is connected to the sealing portion or that connects the flexing portion to the housing <NUM>. The mounting portion <NUM> can be made from a variety of different materials. For example, the mounting portion <NUM> can be made from one or more of metal, rigid plastic, rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, Teflon, etc..

<FIG>, <FIG> illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a poppet <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> is shown separate from the housing <NUM> of the DPT <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> includes an actuator <NUM> and a sealing portion <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the actuator <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> can include one or more ribs <NUM> that extend radially outward from the actuator <NUM>. The ribs <NUM> can be positioned at or near the end of the actuator <NUM>. The ribs <NUM> can aid in ensuring a secure grip used when opening or otherwise handling the poppet <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the mounting portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> is a radially outwardly extending ring. The ring-shaped mounting portion <NUM> is used to secure the poppet <NUM> to the housing <NUM> of the DPT <NUM>. In the example illustrated by <FIG>, the ring-shaped mounting portion <NUM> includes a plurality of concentric ring protrusions <NUM>. The concentric ring protrusions <NUM> extend axially from an end of the mounting portion <NUM>. The concentric ring protrusions <NUM> can seal with the housing <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> can include a void or cutout <NUM> between the ring-shaped mounting portion <NUM> and the actuator shaft <NUM>. The void or cutout <NUM> is configured such that when the inner actuator portion <NUM> is pulled in the direction D', the flexing portion <NUM> flexes in the D' direction. Referring to <FIG>, the flexing of the flexing portion <NUM> and corresponding movement of the sealing portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> in the D' direction allows the by-pass channel <NUM> to at least partially form between the sealing portion <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>. Fluid A' can flow through the opened by-pass channel and flush the DPT <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a poppet <NUM> with an alternate mounting portion <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, a portion of a poppet <NUM> and a housing <NUM> of a DPT <NUM> are illustrated. In this exemplary embodiment, the mounting portion <NUM> is annular with a "dog-bone" cross-sectional shape. This mounting portion <NUM> includes projections <NUM>, <NUM> that extend outward axially in opposite directions. The projection <NUM> of poppet <NUM> can correspond to a slot <NUM> located in the housing <NUM>. During manufacturing of the DPT <NUM>, the poppet <NUM> can be secured to the housing <NUM>. In various embodiments, the projection <NUM> can fit into slot <NUM> to form a secure fit between the poppet <NUM> and the housing <NUM>.

The poppet <NUM> can be assembled with the housing <NUM> in a wide variety of different ways. For example, the mounting portion <NUM> can be attached to the housing <NUM> with fasteners, by welding, such as ultrasonic welding, with adhesive, by co-molding, by swaging, by securing a cap to the housing <NUM>, etc. <FIG> illustrate one of the ways for securing the mounting portion <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the poppet <NUM> is placed into the poppet cavity <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Before the poppet <NUM> is installed in the housing, the illustrated housing <NUM> includes a cylinder <NUM> that extends around the poppet <NUM>. An open end of the cylinder <NUM> can be swaged, melted, and/or otherwise pushed and deformed toward and onto the mounting portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> to secure the poppet to the housing <NUM> of the DPT <NUM> as indicated by arrows <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a tool <NUM> can be used to close the open end of the cylinder <NUM> onto the mounting portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM>. For example, the tool <NUM> can melt and/or deform the material at the end of the cylinder <NUM>. In various embodiments, and with reference to <FIG>, the end of the cylinder <NUM> is deformed such that the material at the end <NUM> of the cylinder <NUM> is pressed against the mounting portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the end <NUM> of the poppet cylinder <NUM> has been deformed such that the end portion secures the mounting portion <NUM> of the poppet <NUM> to the housing <NUM>. In the example illustrated by <FIG>, an annular projection <NUM> presses into a bottom surface of the mounting portion <NUM> to create a first or primary seal between the poppet <NUM> and the housing <NUM>. The annular projections <NUM> (See <FIG>) are compressed by the end portion <NUM> of the poppet cylinder <NUM> to create a second or secondary seal between the poppet <NUM> and the housing <NUM>. The compression of the mounting portion <NUM> between the end <NUM> of the poppet cylinder <NUM> and the annular projection <NUM> also secures the poppet <NUM> in position relative to the housing <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the DPT <NUM>, with the poppet <NUM> secured in the cylinder <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

The DPT <NUM> disclosed herein can be used in a wide variety applications. For example, the DPT can have a variety of different types of valves for delivering medication and/or fluids to a patient. Referring to <FIG>, in one exemplary embodiment a DPT <NUM> can include a housing <NUM>, a mounting assembly <NUM>, a two-port stopcock assembly <NUM>, and a poppet <NUM>. The stopcock assembly <NUM> can take a wide variety of different ways. In the example illustrated by <FIG>, a central axis of the inlet port <NUM> of the stopcock assembly <NUM> is co-planar with a central axis of the cylinder <NUM>. The stopcock assembly <NUM> is connected to the outlet <NUM> of the of the housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can be coupled with the mounting plate <NUM> in a wide variety of different ways. For example, the housing <NUM> can be coupled with the mounting plate <NUM> by ultrasonic welding, adhesive, fasteners, etc..

With reference to <FIG>, the mounting assembly <NUM> includes a mounting plate <NUM> and wires ends <NUM> that are part of a cable <NUM>. The wire ends <NUM> can optionally be tinned to prevent corroding. Mounting plate <NUM> can include shaped walls <NUM> that engage complementary walls <NUM> in the housing <NUM> (<FIG>). The shaped walls <NUM> and the complementary walls <NUM> of the housing <NUM> can be connected together in a wide variety of different ways. For example, the walls <NUM>, <NUM> can be connected together by ultrasonic welding, adhesive, fasteners, etc..

Still referring to <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment the mounting plate <NUM> includes a wire end support portion <NUM>. The wire end support portion <NUM> holds the wire ends <NUM> in place in predetermined, spaced apart positions. For example, the spacing and positioning of the wire ends <NUM> can correspond to terminals <NUM> of the pressure sensor assembly. The wire support portion <NUM> can take a wide variety of different forms. Any structure that holds the wire ends in place relative to the mounting plate <NUM> and maintains the spacing of the wire ends <NUM> can be used.

In the example illustrated by <FIG>, the wire support portion <NUM> comprises a plurality of columns <NUM> that are spaced apart by a plurality of channels <NUM>. The channels <NUM> include a bottom surface <NUM> that supports the wire ends <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> the widths of the channels <NUM> are selected to tightly hold the wire ends <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by lines <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG> that illustrates the wire ends <NUM> resting on the bottom surface <NUM> of the channels <NUM>.

In one exemplary embodiment, the wire ends <NUM> are anchored to prevent movement of the wire ends <NUM> when an axial load <NUM> is applied. For example, the load <NUM> can be applied when the cable <NUM> and/or the individual wires in the cable are pulled. The wire ends <NUM> can be anchored in a wide variety of different ways. For example, plastic can be molded around the wires, the wires can be bent, a stop, such as metal ring, sphere, etc., can be swaged onto or otherwise attached to the wire ends, and/or the wire ends <NUM> an be provided with holes, pores, bores, roughened, or otherwise treated to increase friction.

<FIG> illustrate a few examples of anchoring the wire ends <NUM>. These examples are schematically illustrated generally as they would be perceived in a cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by lines <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>. The anchoring that is schematically illustrated by <FIG> can be applied to the wire support portion <NUM>, such as to one or more of the sets of columns <NUM> and/or channels <NUM>, and/or to the wire ends <NUM>. In <FIG>, the material, such as plastic, of the columns <NUM>, another portion of the mounting plate <NUM>, and/or a portion of the valve body <NUM> is melted, molded, and/or otherwise formed around the wire ends <NUM>. In <FIG>, the wire end <NUM> is bent over the bottom surface <NUM> of the channel <NUM>. In <FIG>, the wire end <NUM> is bent over the bottom surface <NUM> of the channel <NUM> and the material, such as plastic, of the columns <NUM>, another portion of the mounting plate <NUM>, and/or a portion of the valve body <NUM> is melted, molded, and/or otherwise formed around the bent portion of the wire end <NUM>.

In previous DPT assemblies, the terminals associated with the pressure sensor or transducer are soldered to wiring associated with the mounting assembly. This, however, can be time consuming and expensive. In one exemplary embodiment, a terminals <NUM> of a pressure sensor <NUM> are electrically coupled to wire ends <NUM> without soldering. This electrical coupling can be achieved in a wide variety of different ways. For example, the terminals <NUM> can be pressed into contact with the wire ends <NUM>, can be encased together in plastic, the wire ends <NUM> can be inserted into terminals <NUM>, and/or the terminals <NUM> can be inserted into wire ends <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate one exemplary embodiment where the terminals <NUM> of a pressure sensor <NUM> are electrically coupled to wire ends <NUM> without soldering. In this example, the terminals <NUM> associated with a circuit board <NUM> of the pressure sensor contact the wire ends <NUM> of the cable assembly <NUM>. The contact of the wire ends <NUM> and terminals <NUM> allows for the signals or readings associated with the pressure sensor <NUM> to be transferred to a processor, display or other signal reading or interpreting means. With reference to <FIG>, the terminals <NUM> are biased against the wire ends <NUM> and can flex towards and away from the printed circuit board <NUM> to ensure constant contact with the wire ends <NUM>.

The wire ends <NUM> and the terminals <NUM> can be held together as shown in <FIG> is a wide variety of different ways. In one exemplary embodiment, assembly of the housing <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> around the pressure sensor <NUM> and cable <NUM> holds the wire ends <NUM> and the terminals <NUM> against one another.

With reference to <FIG>, a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> taken along plane E is illustrated. The housing <NUM> is coupled with mounting assembly <NUM> around the pressure sensor <NUM> and the cable <NUM>. The pressure sensor <NUM> includes a sensing component <NUM> that is covered with a seal <NUM>. The seal <NUM> can be made of comprise one or more of rubber, a synthetic rubber, a synthetic rubber-like material, silicone, or other known sealing material. The sensing component <NUM> and the seal <NUM> are held in an opening <NUM> in the housing <NUM> that is in communication with the outlet passage <NUM>. In one exemplary embodiment, the seal <NUM> provides a seal between the pressure sensing component <NUM> and the opening <NUM>, without requiring any additional components, and places the sensing component <NUM> is sensing communication with the fluid in the outlet passage <NUM> (See <FIG>).

Still referring to <FIG>, the housing <NUM> and the mounting assembly <NUM> clamp against the circuit board <NUM> to hold the pressure sensor <NUM> in place. The housing <NUM> and the mounting assembly <NUM> also clamp against the cable <NUM> to hold the cable in place with the wire ends <NUM> held in place in the wire support portion <NUM>. The walls <NUM> of the mounting plate <NUM> (See <FIG>) are ultrasonically welded, glued, or are otherwise coupled with the walls <NUM> of the housing <NUM> (See <FIG>), such that the wiring <NUM> is coupled with the terminals <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, cross sections of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> are illustrated. <FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane indicated by lines F-F. In <FIG> the housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> are connected together at interfaces <NUM>. The housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> clamp against the circuit board <NUM> to hold the pressure sensor <NUM> in place.

<FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane indicated by lines G-G. In <FIG> the housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> are connected together at interfaces <NUM>. The housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> clamp against the circuit board <NUM> to hold the pressure sensor <NUM> in place. This holds the sensing component <NUM> and the seal <NUM> in the opening <NUM> in the housing <NUM>. The sensing component is in communication with the outlet passage <NUM>. The seal <NUM> provides a seal between the pressure sensing component <NUM> and the opening <NUM>. The seal <NUM> can be a separate component that is simply placed over or around the sensing component <NUM>. In one exemplary embodiment, there is no adhesive between the seal <NUM> and the sensing component <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane indicated by lines H-H. In <FIG> the housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> are connected together at interfaces <NUM>. The assembly of the housing <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> around the pressure sensor <NUM> and cable <NUM> holds the wire ends <NUM> and the terminals <NUM> against one another.

<FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane I. <FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane J. In <FIG> the housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> are connected together at interfaces <NUM>. The assembly of the housing <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> around the cable <NUM> holds the wire ends <NUM> in the channels <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross section of the DPT <NUM> of <FIG> along the plane indicated by lines I-I. In <FIG> the housing <NUM> and the mounting plate <NUM> are connected together at interfaces <NUM>. The assembly of the housing <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> clamps around the cable <NUM> to hold the cable in place and provide a strain relief for the wire ends <NUM>.

Disclosed herein is a method of flushing a disposable pressure transducer can include projecting a fluid A' through a first flow path B' comprising an inlet port <NUM>, a flow restrictor <NUM>, and an outlet port <NUM>. In various embodiments, the flow restrictor <NUM> is disposed on a valve seat <NUM> of a housing <NUM> of the pressure transducer <NUM>. In various embodiments, the method can include decoupling a poppet <NUM> from the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, allowing the fluid A' to travel through a second flow path B' comprising the inlet port <NUM>, a by-pass channel <NUM>, and the outlet port <NUM>. In various embodiments, the decoupling the poppet <NUM> comprises exerting a force on poppet <NUM> in a direction D away from the housing <NUM>. In various embodiments, the method can include coupling the poppet <NUM> with the valve seat <NUM> of the housing <NUM> to close the by-pass channel <NUM>. In various embodiments, the first flow path B has a smaller flow rate than the second flow rate B'. In various embodiments, the first flow path B provides a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/hr to about <NUM> cc/hr. In various embodiments, the second flow path B' provides a flow rate between about <NUM> cc/min to about <NUM> cc/min.

While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the disclosures may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the disclosures-such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, alternatives as to form, fit, and function, and so on-may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the aspects, concepts, or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present application even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein.

Additionally, even though some features, concepts, or aspects of the disclosures may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present application, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated.

Claim 1:
A pressure transducer (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) comprising an inlet port (<NUM>), an outlet port (<NUM>) and a valve seat (<NUM>);
a poppet (<NUM>) coupled with the housing (<NUM>), wherein the poppet (<NUM>) comprises a sealing portion (<NUM>); and
a pressure transducer;
wherein a flow restrictor (<NUM>) is defined by the valve seat (<NUM>) between the inlet port (<NUM>) and the outlet port (<NUM>);
wherein the flow restrictor (<NUM>) comprises a flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) extending into the valve seat (<NUM>);
wherein the poppet (<NUM>) is coupled with the valve seat (<NUM>);
wherein the housing (<NUM>) includes either or both of:
a) a ramp (<NUM>) between the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) and the inlet port (<NUM>) wherein the ramp (<NUM>) between the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) and the inlet port (<NUM>) is configured to provide extra space to reduce the risk of a blockage of an entrance of the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) caused by load that presses the sealing portion (<NUM>) of the poppet (<NUM>) into the inlet port (<NUM>); and
b) a ramp (<NUM>) between the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) and the outlet port (<NUM>), wherein the ramp (<NUM>) between the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) and the outlet port (<NUM>) is configured to provide extra space to reduce the risk of a blockage of an exit of the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>) caused by load that presses the sealing portion (<NUM>) of the poppet (<NUM>) into the outlet port (<NUM>); and
wherein the pressure transducer is configured to allow a fluid to flow within a first flow path comprising the inlet port (<NUM>), the flow restrictor channel (<NUM>), the outlet port (<NUM>) and the ramp or ramps (<NUM>) in response to the sealing portion (<NUM>) of the poppet (<NUM>) being closed against the valve seat (<NUM>).