Patent ID: 7837056

Claim:
A flexible check valve retention system, the system comprising: a. a tube providing a fluid path; b. an adapter comprising polypropylene and having a proximal and distal end, the proximal end fluid sealably connected to the tubular section; c. a flexible check valve comprising silicone, connected to and disposed over a portion of the distal end of the adapter and operatively connected to the fluid path, the flexible check valve and the adapter in combination defining a receiving recess, wherein the check valve opens to permit fluid flow through the fluid path upon exposure to a circumferentially compressive force and prevents fluid flow through the adapter from the tube while the flexible check valve is in a normally closed position; and d. a snap-fit ring retaining the operative interconnection of the adapter and the flexible check valve, the snap-fit ring being disposed within the receiving recess and secured therein by the flexible check valve and the adapter, and wherein the snap-fit ring prevents separation of the adapter and the flexible check valve and maintains fluid sealable engagement between the adapter and the flexible check valve.