Adapter

Abstract

An adapter configured to allow interconnection of a device input connector (DIC) having a first connector configuration and an consumable end connector (CEC) having a second connector configuration, the adapter including a first end having a first connector mateable with the DIC, a second end configured to receive at least part of the CEC, a locking mechanism configured to lock the CEC to the adapter, and a release mechanism configured to release the CEC from the adapter.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An adapter for use in a respiratory gas sampling and/or delivery tubing system, said adapter configured to allow interconnection of a device input connector (DIC) having a first connector configuration and a tube end connector (CEC) having a second connector configuration different from the first connector configuration, wherein the second connector configuration comprises a buldge having a first dimension, comprising:
 a first end comprising a first connector configured to mate with the first connector configuration;   a second end comprising a second connector configured to mate with the second connector configuration; and   a locking/release mechanism to lock or release the CEC to or from the adapter, wherein the locking/release mechanism comprises a first latch, a second latch, and a gap between the first and second latches, and wherein the gap comprises a second dimension that is greater than the first dimension such that the buldge slidably fits between the first and second latches.   
     
     
         2 . The adapter of  claim 1 , wherein said locking/release mechanism is configured to prevent connection and/or disconnection of said first connector to and/or from said DIC from releasing said CEC from said adaptor. 
     
     
         3 . The adapter of  claim 1 , wherein said adapter comprises a secondary cone formed within a void of said adapter, said secondary cone configured to mate with a secondary cone formed within a void of said CEC, thereby forming an airtight passageway throughout said adapter and said CEC. 
     
     
         4 . The adapter of  claim 1 , wherein the adapter is non-reusable after activation of said release mechanism. 
     
     
         5 . The adapter of  claim 1 , comprising at least one feature rendering it incompatible with a new CEC after a first use. 
     
     
         6 . The adapter of  claim 1 , wherein outward displacement of said first and second latches releases said CEC from said adapter. 
     
     
         7 . The adapter of  claim 6 , wherein said latch comprises an opening configured to receive said buldge, wherein lifting said latch frees said buldge from said opening, thereby enabling release of said CEC from said adapter. 
     
     
         8 . The adapter of  claim 1 , further comprising a feature visibly distinguishing said adapter from said CEC. 
     
     
         9 . The adapter of  claim 1 , further comprising a tube interconnecting between said first end and said second end of said adapter.