Abstract: A needle-less valve connector which employs a pre-slit elastomeric septum capable of axial movement proximally and distally within a housing. Connection of a blunt connector to the housing pushes the septum in the distal direction. A spring member biases the septum toward the proximal direction. The slit through the septum is held in the closed position, when the septum is in the proximal position, by an interference fit between the inside surface of the housing and the peripheral surface of the septum, with the interference fit causing an inward radial compression of the septum, orthogonal to the slit axis. The outer, or proximal, end surface of the septum can be shaped with a concave contour which causes the slit to completely close when the septum is in the proximal position. When a blunt connector is connected to the housing, the septum is pushed to a distal position, where other structure in the housing applies radial stress to the septum to open the slit.

Abstract: A needle-less valve connector which employs a pre-slit elastomeric septum capable of axial movement proximally and distally within a housing. Connection of a blunt connector to the housing pushes the septum in the distal direction. A spring member biases the septum toward the proximal direction. The slit through the septum is held in the closed position, when the septum is in the proximal position, by an interference fit between the inside surface of the housing and the peripheral surface of the septum, with the interference fit causing an inward radial compression of the septum, orthogonal to the slit axis. The outer, or proximal, end surface of the septum can be shaped with a concave contour which causes the slit to completely close when the septum is in the proximal position. When a blunt connector is connected to the housing, the septum is pushed to a distal position, where radial stress is relieved, allowing the septum to expand or be expanded, thereby opening the slit.