Title of Invention

A VALVE ASSEMBLY AND A SURGICAL ACCESS DEVICE

Abstract

Disclosed is a valve/seal assembly that is adapted for use in a variety of applications, such as for example, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, household appliance and marine. The disclosed valve in- cludes, inter alia, a varve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion and a generally spherical valve member. The upper and iowerbody portions of the housing define an internal chamber for accommodating the valve member and a central axis for the valve. The generally spherical valve member is seated . within the internal chamber of the valve housing and has an axial bore extending therethrongh. The valve member is mounted for movement between an open po- sition; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. The valve assembly finther includes a camming mechanism that is opera- tively associated with the valve housing and Ihe valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position.

Full Text

WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 ROTATING VALVE ASSEMBLY CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to Nsw Zealand Provisional Patent Application. Serial No. 526158, filedMay 29,2003, entitled "Rotating Scaling Mechanism" and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 6S, __„"" ""October 31,2003, entitled "Valve Assembly for Surgical Actors Device", the disclosures of each arc herein incorporated "by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVKNTIOfr 1. Field of the Invention ThesubjectinventLon relates genenilly to the field of sealing mechanisms, and more particularly to, a compact valve assembly for use in a variety of applications, which, includes a valve member that is readily actuated between, the open and lie closed position by a camming mechanism. 2. Background of the Related Art Ball valves are well inown to those skilled in fee art and are commonly used mavari^ofapplicatibnsaiidindustri,es. Typically, in applications mat concern controlling the flow of a fluid, an apertured ball valve is selected. In an apertiired ball valve, a generally spherical valve member that has a flow aperture or passage formed therethrough is positioned for rotational movement wiHun a valve housing. The valve operation ox functionis broken down, into irwo separate stages. First, the ball moves between an open and a closed position by rotating through. 90 degrees, such that the. aperture or fiow passage moves from an orientation coaxial with the flow .direction, te. when the valve is open, to apoaitionv^hereby the ball aperture is normal or -1- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 perpendicular to "the flow direction. Second, the valve seals in. the dosed position to prevent flowthrou^L the aperture across the "ball valve. Therefore, the on -off control of flow through the valve is achieved by relating the ball through 90 degrees within, the valve housing. In-prior art ball valves; the rotation, of the ball (Le., valve member) is typically effectuated by an actuator mechanism that protrudes from the valve housing and is configirred to rotate about m axis pcipendi^^ Suciha valve is disclosed in. U.S. PatentNo- 6,695,285 to Hotton et aL Several disadvantages are associated with this type of ball valve. For example, the extension of an actuator feom the sLdewall of the valve is cumbersome and not desirable for applications where space limitatioris and physical access to the actuator are a concern. Still further, the ac'uaior in these valves mnstbe rotated or turned through at least 90 degrees in order for the valve to move between, the folly open and fully closed positions- Tnerefore, it would be beneficial therefore, to provide a valve/seal mechanism thatls compact, reliable and readily actuated between the open and closed position and actuated with a tn^i™^ amount of rotational movement STBJMARY OF THE INVENTION Tne subject application is directed to a valve/seal assembly that is adapted for. use in a variety of applications, such, as for example, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, hcfusehold appliance and marine, The disclosed valve includeSj inter alia, a valve housing liaving aniippcr body portion and a. lower body portion and a generally spherical valve member. Ite upper and lower body portions of the housing define an internal chamber for accommodating the Yalve -a- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 member and a central axis for the valve. Tiic housing also has azially aligned inlet and outlet ports formed in the upper and lower body portions, respectively. The generally spherical vah^ member is seated within the internal chamber of the valve housing and has an. axM bore extiading therethron^L Tne valve member is mounted for movement between an open position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axiadly aligaed with the inlet ami outlet ports of-the valve housing, and a. closed position; whercii the anal bore of tiie valve member is out of alignment writi the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. Preferably, the valve member moves between me open position and the closed position when the upper body po rtion of the housing is rotated about the central axis between about 57 degrees and about 77 degrees with respect to the lower body portion. It is presently envisioned that the valve member is mounted for axial rotation within, the interior chsrober about an axis extending perpendicular to the central axis; defined by fee upper and lower body portion of the valve housing. Preferably, the valve member includes a sealing surface adapted for sealing engagement with, a valve seat formed in the housing when the val ve is in the closed position. In applications where a pressure is applied to the fluid or air metered by the valve, the scaling surface of the valve member is adapted to include an n-ntinlar recess having an o-ring disposed therein. The valve assembly further includes a mechanism that is operatively associated with the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and QLB closed position wnen the upper body portion of the housing is rotated about the; central axis with respect to the lower body portion. In a preferred embodiment, lie mechanism for actuating the valve assembly is a caroming mechanism. -3- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 la a present embodiment, the camming mechanism includes cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam. pin. formed an the interior surface'of the Upper body portion ojf the housing. It is envisioned that the cam surfaces formed on file exterior surface of "the valve member are defined by a pair of cam lobes formed at angles to one another. The cam. lobes can be arcuate or linear in configuration. la a further embodiment of the present invention, the camming mechanism includes at least one arcuate recess formed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on the interior surface of the upper body portion of the housing for engaging with, the cam recess. In. a preferred embodimesnt, the housing for the valve assembly includes means associated with tie inlet port for engaging the valve with.a receptacle or tubing; Additionally, if desired, tie houshig can incrades means associated with the outlet port for engaging the valve with, a receptacle or tubing. In applications feat require the valve to include a tamper-proof feature to ensure thepurity of the substance containEsd within the bore of the valve member or in the receptacle or container, upon, which me valve is affixed to, the valve further includes a'frangible ring engaged with exterior of the valve housing "to provide a visual indication of whether the valve has been opened. Alternat tvely or in "combination, the valve can include a frangible sealing disc inserted into the interior chamber of the valve to again provide a visual indication of whether the valve has bsenopeaed. This scaling disc also foncticms as a secondary seal for the valveuntil its initial use. Influs embodiment, it is envisioned thatmovalvemcmberincliidBsa mechanism for puncturing the disc when the valve is opened, For example, a sharp -4- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 protobaance can be formed on the bottom of the valve member-which, cuts the sealing disc when the valve is moved fromihe closed to the open position. In an alternative embodiment, the axial bore of the valve member is adapted and configured for receiving and storing an article of manufacture "when the valvB is in the closed position. For example, an awitrd or small prize may be stored in the bore and revealed when the yalve is opened, StLH further, the valve could be mounted to a water bottle and the bore of the valve could, contain a vitamin or supplement which is dropped into the water when, the valve is opened. It is further envisioned that the valv e can include a mechanism associated with the valve housing for facilitating the axial rotation of the upper body portion of the housing relative to the lower body portion. In an alternative embodiment, a phi jality of flow passages arc formed in the 'valve member and extend therethrough along an axis that is perpendicular to the axial bore such that when the valve is in the closed position, ftuid ox air traverses the valve through the plurality of flow passages. The present disclosure is also directed to a surgical access device which includes, among oiher things, a valve bousing, an elongated carmula.sleeve opexatively associated mih. the housing, a generally spherical valve member di sposcd withui an interior chamber defined in the housing and a mechanism cperatively associated with, the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position. . The valye housing defines an interior chamber and a valve seat for accommodating the valve member. AxialLy aligned inlet and ouflctports arc formed in the housing and extend from the valve tsxteiior to the interior chamber. -5- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 The elongated cannnla sleeve that is opexatively associated "with the valve housing, lias an elongated passageway extending merethrou^i that defines a longitudinal axis aligned with tbyemletaadoutletportsoffesTalvehousiiig. In a disclosed embodiment, lie cannula sleeve d-epen&s from a cannula housing associated with-fee valve housing. ItisenvisioneddiatthecaHOiilabDUsingcanbedetacliably connected to the valve housing. The generally spherical valve member is seated within the valve housing and lias an axial bore csdmdiogmerdhrough. 'Che valve memberis mounted for movement between an open position and aclosed position. In the open position, the axial bore of the vatve member is axiaUy aligned with the elongated passageway of. the cannula sleeve and the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. In the cl oscd position, the axial bore of me valve member extends perpendicular to the elongated passageway of the cannula sleeve and the inlet and outLetports of file valve housing. It is envisioned that the valve member is mounted for axial rotation -within the valve inferior chamber about an axis extending perpendicular to the axially aligned inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. It is presently envisioned mat the valve member includes a convex sealing surface, which is aligned with the inlet port of the valve hoiismg when the valve member is in the closed position. In alternative embodiments that require apressure tight seal, the sealing surface of the valve member includes an anoular recess having an o-ring disposed therem. - In a preferred embodiment, the mechanism for moving the valve member includes cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of me valve member and a cam. pinmoimted for movcrrient relative to the cam. surfaces of the valve member. Preferably, the cam pin extends radially inwardly from a drive ring supported on the -6- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 vafcve housing and mounted for rotation about the longitudinal axis of the cannula sleeve. The rotation of the drive ring causes corresponding rotation of the valve member within, the valve seat of the valve liousing. In a disclosed embodiment of "the scirgicai access device, the cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the valve member axe defined by a pair of cam lobes oriented with, respect to the axis of rotation of the valve member at angles to one another, la an alternative embodiment, the-niechanisni operativery associated with the valve liouamg and the valve member fcr moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position includes ai least one arcuate recess formed on the exterior surface of tie valve member and £, cam pin formed on the interior surfece of toe housing for engaging with the cam recess. It is presently preferred that the surgical access device further includes a membrane seal located proximal to the valve seat, the membrane aeal having an opening axially aligned with the elongated passageway of the cannrna sleeve. The opening is dimensioned to accommodate the passage of a surgical instrument there&rough. Those skilled in &e art would readily appreciate that the components of the disclosed valve assembly, or portions thereof, may be manufactured from any rigid, semi-rigid, liard or semi-hard materiaL, such as plastic, rubber, metal or a composite. Stfll further; in medical applications the "valve assembly canbe made out of titanium or a similar biocompatfble materiaL Additionally, the: generally sphcrial valve member canbo formed to have an interference fit with the valve seal so as to provide a tighter seaL By forming the -7- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 valve member or valve seat slightly out-of-:round, a tighter seal is created and mote force is required to op en the valve. It is also envisioned that a telescoping nozzle or sleeve can be disposed "within the axial bore of the valve member and \vhra the valve is moved to the open position, the nozzle or sleeve extends out of the valve inlet This feature is useful in a variety of applications, such as for example) beverage or gasoline containers. Still farther, it is envisioned that tiie valve assembly of the present invention can be connected to stepper motor and thereby-"be operated remotely. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRA\yiNGS So 1hat those having ordinary skill m the art to which the present application appertains will more readily understand how to make and use the surgical access device and valve assembly of the present rivenfion, embodiments thereof will be described in detail hereinbelow -with reference to the drawings, wherein: Fig, 1 is a perspective view of a valve assembly constructed in. accordance with. aT^efetted enibc^iimeiit of ihe s Fig. 2 is an. explodedperspectrve view from above of the valve assembly of Fig. 1 with, parts separated for ease of illustration; Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view from below of the valve assembly of Fig. 1 with, parts separated for ease of illustration; Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative ambodimentof the valve assembly of the present invention, wrfti parts separated for case of illustration, wherein (he valve includes a frangible ring; Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective \ iew of an alternative emb odiment of the valve assembly of foe-present invention with parts separated for ease of illustration, -8- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 wherein the valve includes a sealing diso disposed within the interior chamber of tbte housing; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a valve assembly constructed in accordance with. an.alternative pmbodament-ofthesubje»tinveiitioi^wheieiaifhe valve assembly ia engaged with, a beverage container and is adapted for engagement 1*1131 a cap; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a valve assembly constructed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the subjxi invention with parts separated for ease of illustration, Wheiem aprize is stored "within ihebore formed, in. the valve member; Fig, 8 is a perspective view of a valve assembly constructed in accordance witii a further alternative embodiment of the subject invention, wherein the valve assembly is mounted on the end of a tubing which is in fluid cotcanmucatioiiwi&a container, Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a valve assembly constructed in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of tie subject invention, wherein the valve assembly is mounted on a container and a straw assembly is position wnmo the open valve; Fig. 10 is aperspective view of the; valve assembly of the present disclosure" which illustrates the valve positioned between two containers; . Fig, 11 is aperspective view of me; valve assembly of tbe present disclosure adapted &r use with a colostomy bag; Fig. 12 is aperspective view ofihd valve assembly of Fig. 11 with parts separated for ease of illustration; Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the presently 'disclosed valve assembly with jarts separated for eas&of illustration, -9- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2G04/017177 wherein the valve member includes a plurality of flow passages ertcikling through tiie valve perpendicular to the central "bore; Kg. 14 is a perspective view of analtm^veappEcatiatiforthB valve assembly of tiie present invention, wherein ifae valve is used in a automobile fuel tank; Fig. 15 is aperspective view of a sui-gtcal access dev ice constructed in accordance with apreferred embodiment oi'the subject invention; Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the surgical access device of Fig. 15 with parts separated for ease of illustration; Fig. 17a is a perspective view in paitial cr oss-section of Hie valve housing, which.fonns part of the surgical access device of Fig. 15, wherein the valve member is shown in an open position with the axial bore of the valve member aligned with the aerially aligned inlet and outlet ports of the valve; Fig. 17b is apexspectivc view mparual cross-section of the valve housing of the subject invention, wherein the valve m<:mber is in transition from fee open> position of Fig, 17atotheclosedpositionofFig. 17c; Fig. 17c is aperspective view in partial cross-section of the valve housing of the subject invention, wherein the valve member is disposed in a closed position so that the axial bore of tiie valve member is ariented perpendicular to the axially aligned Met and outlet ports of the valve bousing; Fig. 18 is aperspective view of another embodiment of ike surgical access device of the subject invention, which includes a detachable valve housing; and Fig 19 is a perspective view of the surgical access device of Fig. 18, with the valve housing separated from the camiula housing for ease of nlxyrtration. -10- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 These and other features of the valve assembly and surgical access device of the -present application will become more readily apparent to ttose^ymg ordinary sViH in the art foim the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRBITElflRED EMBOPIMEMTS Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference minerals identify aimilar structural elements or features of the subject invention, there is illustrated in Fig. 1 a valve assembly in accordance withihe present invention and designated general3ybyreferencennniberl00. Valve ussembly 100 is adapted for use in a variety of applications, such as for example,, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, household appliance and marine. Valve 100 includes, inter alia, a. valve housing 10 having an upper body portion 2-0 anda lower body portion 3 0 and a generally spherical v alve member 50. .The 'upper and lower body portions 20/30 of the housing 10 define an internal chamber 16 for accommodating the valve member 50 and a central axis "X" for the valve. The housing 10 also has anally aligned inlet and outlet ports, 12 and 14 respectively, foimedmthe upper arid lower bodyportiozis, 20 and30 respectively. The generally spherical valve member 50 is seated wimrafhe internal chamber 16 of the valve housing and has an axial bare 52 extending therethrough. The valve- member 5 0 is mounted for movement within the internal chamber 16 of the housing 10 between an open position and a dosed position. Fig. 3a inpsfctates valve assembly 100 in toe open position; wherein, the asiaabore 52 of the valve member 50 is axially aligned with the mletport-12 aad outlet port 14 of the valve housing 10. In a H ke manner, Fig. 3c illustrates the valve assembly 100 in the closed position; -wherein the axial bore 52 of "the valve member 50 is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet -11- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 "ports 12/16 of the valve bousing 10. Fig. 3b, provides a detail of the valve assem bly 100 in an intermediateposition. It should be noted that in Figs. 3a through 3c, valve a^^iiblylOOis5hownmouiil^oaiihsiLeckofacoiitamEr62. Wife contmiiingrefarace to Figs. 3£Lthrough 3c, valve member 100 moves between the open position and the closed position when the upp*r body portion 20 of the housing is rotated about the central axis "X" between about 57 degrees and about 77 degrees with respect to lie lower body portion. 30, The valve member 100 33 mounted for pxifil rotation within the interior chamber about an axis "Y" (see Fig. 3b) extending perpendicular to the central axis "X" defined by the upper and lower body portions 20/30 of tie valve housing 10. The valve member SO includes a sailing surface 54 which is adapted for sealing engagement with annular valve seal; 18 formed in the housing 10 when the valve is in the closed position. In applications where a pressure is applied to the fluid or air that is metered by the valve assembly, fhe sealing surface 54 of the valve member 50 includes an. annular recess 56 (iie& Fig. 2) having an. o -ring (not shown) disposed therein. Diametrically opposed pivot pins 5 S (only one phi is shown in Fig. 2) extend radially outwardly from fee surface of valve member 50 for accommodation within. diametrically opposed recesses 32a and 32 formed in the lower fc»ody portion 30 of fee housing 10 to facilitate the axial rotation of valve member 50, A camming mechanism is operaiively associated with the valve housing 10 and the valve member 50 for moving fhe valve member 50 between the open position of Fig. 3a and the closed position of Fig. 3c. The camming mechanism includes cam lobes 60a, 60b formed on the exterior surface of the valve member 50 and a cam pin 22 which extends radially inwardly from the interior surface of the upper body portion -12- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 20 ofthehousing 10to cooperate with the cam lobes. As will be described in detail herein below, the valve assembly can be equipped with, a drive ring which is engaged overtbe upper body portion of the tioiismg. Insuchan embodUmaatjihecampincaii be associated wrth the driveling snch thatthe driveling actuates the valve member. Referring again, to Fig. 3b, the cam Lobes 6i)a, 60b are oriented wim respect to the axis of rotation "Y" of the valve member 50 at angles to o ne another. Each cam lobe 60a, 60b has a leading edge 61a, 61b thd: interacts with the cam pin 32. This interaction facilitates movement of the valve member 50 when the tipper body portion 20 is rotated about the longitadinal axis X orthe valve assembly 100. When the valve member 50 is moved between the open and tilosed positions, it is rotated about the pivot axis "Y" which extends through the prrot pin. 58 of valve member 50, as illustrated in Fig. 3b. Those skilled in the art would readily appreciate that in lieu of the cam lobes 60a and 60b, a sirjgle arcuate recess orpair of recesses can be formed in the exterior surface ofvarve member 50. In "fliis embodiment, the length of cam phi 22 "would be selected so that it extends into the camtoing reccssfes) and actuates me valve member 50 between the open and closed positions upon the relative axial rotation of the two t>ody portions 20/30 ofthehousmglOwithrespecttocaclioflisr. Referring again to Figs. 2 and 3, the lower body portion 30 ofvalve assembly ICO has a female thread series 34 formed tfiereon for engaging wiQi corresponding- coals series associated with a receptacle (e. g. "botfly container, etc.), robing or the lite. Sibbed surface 36 is provided on ike exterior of the lower body portion 30 of the housing 10 to facilitate the rotational engagement of the threads. A water pressure test was conducted on a valve assembly similar to that described above. The entire valve was manufectnred from a rigid thenanoplastic and 13^ WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 - dad not include O-ring seals. The camming lobes were constructed such that 67 degrees of rotation was required to move the valve between the open, and the closed position. Tbfl axial bore of the valve was approximately^" in diameter. Six feet of water was applied to Hie valve through a 3/8'11 tube that was secured to the valve outlet No' leaking of the valve was observed and therefore, it was concluded float 1ms embodiment of the valve assembly was capable of sealing fluid at a pressure of 3 psi (ma'tinrnTTTi). Referring now to Fig. 4, there is ilhusttated an alternative embodiment of the valve assembly of the present invention designated generally by reference numeral 200. Valve 200 is similar instructive and operation to valve assembly 100. However, unlike valve assembly 100, valve assembly 20X) includes a frangible ring 270 which is adapted to be engaged witath;bxnisiiig(ie.,^uppa'and lower body portions 220,230) of the valvB assembly 200. The frangible ring 270 has been added to valve assembly 200 to provide a visual indication of whether the valve has been previously opened. Frangible ring 270 is molded around the upper and lower body portions 220,230 of the housing so that wtjea the body portions are rotated relative to each of the, the ring 270 is brojeen. Such a tamper -proof feature would be useful in applications where the valve is -wim consumer beverages, for example. Referring now to Fig. 5 which illustrates afirrfber embodiment of tbe valve assembly of the present invention that has been designated by reference number 300. Valve 300 is similar in structure and operation to valve assembly 100. However, unlike valvo 100, valve 300 includes a frangible sealing diso.370 which is positioned within fee interior chamber 316 defined in part by the lower body portion of the housing. Frangible sealing disc 370 can fimctiDn as a tamper -proof feature, as well as.provideanadditionalsealfcn-valveaaiemblySOO. to. mis embodiment, the valve -14- WO 2004/106782 PCT7US2O04/017177 member 350 has a shape protuberance 364 formed on its exterior surface. When the valve member 350 is rotated fo>m the open to the closed position, the prouiberance 364 punctures the sealing disc 370 allowing fluid or air to flow-through, 1iae valve member 350wnen:rtisretiimedtomeclos*Iposuloa. Referring now to Figs. 6 and 7, which iHjistrate yet another embodiment of the valve assembly of the present indention designated generally by reference numeral 400. Valve assembly 400 is similar in structure and operation to valve assembly 100. As shown in these figures, valve assembly 'WO is thre adably engaged with the neck 462 of container 465. A cap 488 is provided which engages with, tie upper portion 420 of tiie valve assembly 400. like the previously disclosed valve assemblies, valve member 450 has a axial bore 452 formed therein which allows fluid or air to flow through the valve assembly 400 when the valve member 450 is in. the openposinon. Still further,' the axial bare 452 is adapted for receiving and staling an article of manufacture 453 or fluid, such as for example, a prize, a ticket, a. vitamin supplement, or a medication. In such embodiments, it would be advantageous to insert a sealing disc into the valve assembly similar fiiat disclosed with, reference to Fig. 5 to prevent to article of manufacture fiom felling into the container daring storage. Alternatively, aremovable seal can be placed over the month of container 462. Referring now to Figs. 8 and 9 which filusteate an alternate application for valve 400. In Fig. 8, valve 400 is mounted on the end of a tubing assembly 472. Tubing assembly 472 includes two end connectors 474a, 474b and an elongated tube 476. End connector 474a is mreadably engaged with the neck of container 465 and includes a central aperture which is adapted to allow tube 476 to telescope in and out ' of container 465. Valve assembly 400 is isagaged with end connector 474b such that -15- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US20W/017177 when the valve is in the open position, fluid cm flow from the container 465 through ihe tubing assembly 472 and out of the valve 400. Kg. 9 illustrates valve assembly 400 laountcd on the neck 462 of container 465. Valve assembly 400 is shown in the optm position having straw assembly 572 inserted into the axial bore 552. Straw assembly 572 includes a straw 576 and a plug member 574. The plug member 574 has a circumferential O -ring 575 and is adapted for sraling engagement with the inlet port of valve 400. Referring now to Fig. 10, which illustrates a farther embodiment of the valve assembly of me present invention, designates! generally by reference numeral 500. As shown herein, valve assembly 500 is bang tised to meter the Slow between two containers 565a, 565b. The flow path between tbe containers includes upper and lower condoit assemblies 572a, 572b and valve assembly 500. Tbc conduit assemblies are seaUngly engaged between containers 565a, 565b and the valve assembly 500. Valve assembly 500 is similar m structure and function to valve assembly 100. However, unlike valve assembly 100, valve assembly 500 includes actuator arms 528a through 528d that facilitate the relative rotation of the upps: body portion 520 of the valve assembly 500 with respect to tie "lower body portion. 530 thereby moving the valve member between the open and closed positions. Q-rings 525 aie provided to seal tbe connections of the components imd prevent leakage from the flow paih. Referxmg now to Figs. 11 and 12, wherein valve assembly 600 is shown used in conjunction with a coloatomy bag assembly 665, Coloatomy bag assembly 665r includes a bag 667, a proximal ring 669 and a distal ring 671. The proximal ring 669 has an outer flange that ia sealingly engage with the bag 667. Two retaining pins 675a, 675b are formed on me insiiie diameter of the proximal ring 669. These pins • 16- WO 2004/106782 PCTAJS2004/017177 675a, 675b arc inserted into corresponding engagement recesses 629a, 629b fo uaed in valve assembly 600 and secure the vaive assesnbly 600 to lhe proximal ring 669. Similarly, distal Ting 671, which, is secured to the surface of the patients body, inclndes retaining pins 673a, 673b that are inserted into corresponding engagement recesses 631a (not show), 631b formed in valve assembly 600. Valve assembly 600 has been equipped with, an actuator ami 628 which, allows the patient to move the valve between the open, and the closed position as desired. Referdng now to Fig. 13, ihere is illustrated showerhead -whack includes a valve assembly constructed in accordance with, an alternative embodiment of the present invention and designated by referenc e numeral 700. Again, valve assembly 700 is similar in structure and operation to ttie previously disclosed valves, but unlike the prior valves, valve assembly 700 has a plurality of flow passages 753 formed m the valve member 750. The flow passages 753 extend, along an axis that is perpendicular to the axial bore 752 such, thai when, the valve member is m the closed position, fluid traverses the valve through the plurality of flow passages 753. Hence when me valve assembly 700 is in the open position, a single jet of water is emitted from the showerhead assembly and when it is in me closed position, water streams from me flow passages 753. O-ring seals 755a, 755b and 757a, 757b ace provided aibotii ends of me axial bore 752 and flow passages 753 to properly seal me valve "when in the open and closed positions, respectively. The showerhead disclosed in Fig. 13 is also equipped with a control ring 790 that sealingly engagea with the tipper portion 720 of the valve assembly 700 using O - dngseal792. Coafc©l;rifog79Qhasadrivepm722ib!rmedciiiis Drive pm 722 projects through the Blot 721. formed in the upper portion 720 of the -17- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 valve assembly 7Q0 and engages with, the am lobes 760a, 760b framed the valve member 750. Thus> rotation of the control iing-790 with respect to the lower body portion 730 of the valve assembly 700 moves Hie valve member betweaa the open and the closed positions. Those skilled in the ait will readily :sppreciate 1iaat the shovrerhead assembly described hereiaabove can be adapted for use for metering an aix supply rather than fluid. Referring now to Fig. 14 which illustrates a valve assembly (designated by reference numeral 800) constructed in accordance with the present invention positioned within the inlet 862 of fuel tank, The use of valve assembly 800 in this application allows for the elimination of a removable gas cap and only requires an approximately 67 degrees rotation of drive ring 890 to open the valve. The axial bore 852 of the valve member would be adapted for receiving a standard foci pump nozzle 855. Referring now to Figa. IS and 16, there is illustrated a surgical instrument constructed in accordance with a preferred, embodiment of the subject invention and . designated generally by reference numeral 900, Minimally invasive surgical procedures are commonly performed by passing surgical instruments through a narrow tubs or cannula inserted through a small entrance incisicn formed in a patient's bocly using a trocar or obturator. For example, laparoscopic surgical procedures are performed within the abdannnal cavity through small incision^ farmed in the abdominal wall. During a laparoscopio procedure, insufflating gases are introduced into the; abdominal cavity to raise the abdominal wall or peritoneum away from the vital organs within the abdominal cavity, thereby providing an adequate region in "which to operate. -18- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 During a laparoscopic procedure, it is necessary to maintain the atmospheric integrity of the abdominal cavity, artd thus prohibit the egress of insufflation gases for the surgical site. 3±i3 common therefore, to provideasealassembly wi&inthe carmula an that -when iTistnTments are present within fhft rannnia and tyhf»n ingfnrmfttta are withdrawn form the cannula, the tabular jjassageway extending iherethrough, is tightly sealed to preyenlthe egress of insufflating gases. For example, it is koo wa to employ an, elastomeric seal member "wifh. an aperture or slit that may be forced op en. whm the instrument is passed therethrough, ThesealmetnbcrprcvcatsthcGgrcssof insufflation gasses when, the instrument is present and absent from the carmula. Th ere are known, disadvantages to employing such seals. In particular, the opening or slit can tear when an mstrument is forced fheretinougk, thus rendering the seal in. effective to prevent the egress of insufflating gases from the cantrola sleeve. Therefore as will be described hereijubelow, surgical instrument 900 has been equipped with the valve assembly of the present mventton to prevent the egress of insufflating gases through the cannula in the absence of a surgical instrument Surgical instrument 900 is intended Hox use as an access device, and more particularly, as a device to facilitate the introduction, of si surgical instrument into a person's body ciiiring amJahnaUy invasive surgical procedure. Sui^calinstramentsrntroducedinto araticiifs body .through the surgical instrument 900 of the sT^'ect invention can. include, for example, clip appliers, graspers, dissectors, retractors, staplers, laser fibers, photographic devices, endoscopes.laparoscopes, tubes; andthehke. Surgical instrument or access device 900 includes a proximal valve housing 910 having aa inlet port 912 for receiving surgical instruments. Valve housing 910 includes an upper body portion 920 and a! owcr body portion930 which define, among other filings, a generally hemispherical internal chamber 916 for -19- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2OO4/017177 ^icojnin0datmgageaiei^ysphedcalvalvBBiem'bK'95O. Internal chamber 916 coimmmicates "wift an outlet port 914 of fee valve housing 910 which is axially aligned with the Met port 912.' Valve housing 910 is operatrverj associate d with a lower pamaila housing 980. Preferably, the valve housing 910 acui cannula housing 980 are formed of a polycarbonate material. An elongated cannula sleeve 982 extends distally from the canrmla housing 980. Gatumla sleeve 982 has an elongated passag eway 984 extending therethrough, which dptfjnfta n TopgitP^iTial ayis dpftned hy refprence nhaTatrtar "X" Passageway 984 is axially aligned "with the inlet port 912 and outlet port 914 of valve housing 910. Cannnla sleeve 982 may be formed of stainless steel or another suitable rigid material such as polycarbonate materials or the like, An inlet conduit 986 is incorporated into carmula housing 980 to permit the passage of insufflation gases through the cannula sleeve 982 and into the patient1 s body cavity. The inlet conduit 9S6 can. include a stopcock valve, which is not shown. Valve member 950, which is preferably formed fiom a polycarbonate material, is mounted for axial rotation within. &e anterior chamber 916 about an axis extending perpendicular to HK longitudinal axis of the cannula sleeve 982, Diametrically opposed pivot pins 958 (only one pin is shown, in Fig. 16) extend radially outwardly irom the surface of valve member 950 for accommodation within diametrically opposed recesses 932a, 932b to facilitate lie axial rotation! of valve member 950- An frrial bore 952 extends through the valve member 950, and a convex sealing surface 954 is provided on valve member 950» spaced from axial .bore 952. Valve member 950 is mounted.for movement between an open position and a closed position. In the open position of -salve member 950, -which is shown in Fig. 17a, the axial bore 952 is axialiy aligned with the elongated passageway 984 of -20- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 cannula sleeve 982 and ihe inlet and. outlet ports 912,914 of valve bousing 910. In. the closed position, of valve member 950, which is shown in Fig. 17c, the axial bore 952 extends perpendicular to Hie elongated passageway 984 of cammla sleeve 982 and the sealing surface 954 uaxiaUyangjiedwimmeinletport 912 of valve housing 910. As described withrespect to previous embodiments, a camming mechanism is operatively associated with the valve houMag 910 and the valve member 950 for moving the valve member 950 between the: open position of Fig. 17a and the closed position of.Fig. 17c. The camming mechanism includes arcuate cam lobes 960a, 96Db formed on the exterior surface of fhe valve member 950 and a cam pin 922 which extends radially inwardly from the interim surface of the upper housing portion/drive ring 920 to cooperate with me cam lobes. As before, a leading edge of the cam kibes 960a, 950b interacts with tiie cam pin. 922. This interaction faeiHtates movement of the valve member 9S0 when the drive ring, 920 is rotated about lie longitudinal axis "X" of oannula sleeve 982. Whenthe valve member 950 ismoved"between the open and closed positions, it is rotated about the pivot axis "Y" which extends ferough the pivot pin 958 of valve member950, as illustrated in Fig. 3b. Drive ring 920 is rotatahly mounted on the proximal end of valve housing 910 and includes diametrically opposed radial Ly mwai^y exteading guide ribs 924 which cooperate with en annular guide surface 9 3 S formed on the exterior of the lower "body portion 930 of the Valve housing 910. Stop surfaces 940 limit the rotational motion of upper body portion/drive ring 920 lelafive to the longitudinal axis of the caunula sleeve 982.- A fluted manipulationImob 990 h cooperatively engaged with the drive ring 920. Manipulation knob 990 includes inlet port 992, which is aligned "With the- axial passageway 984 of canaula sleeve 982 and defines inpart the inlet port 912 of valve -21- WO 2004/106782 PCTAJS2004/017177 housing 910. The engagement of drive ring 920 and manipulatioulaiob 990 is accomplished through the coupling of a pair of diametrically opposed radially outwardly extending engagement tabs 926 oil drive ring 920 (only one tab is shown in Fig; 16) with a pair of corresponding diametrically opposed interior recess 994a, 994b formed in the interior cavity of manipulation knob 990. Alternative structural means may be provided to enable ready manipulation of drive ring 920. A flange 942 proj ects radially outwardly from the lower portion 930 of valve housing 910 to provide leverage to the surgeon when lie manipulation knob 990 is rotated. Valve housing 910 further includs; a membrane seal 996 located proximal to the interior chamber 916 and retained within an annular recess. Membrane seal 996 has a central slitted opening 998 that is axisUy aligned with me outletpoxt 912 of valve housing 910 and the passageway 984 of the cannula sleeve 982. Central opening 998 is dimensioned and configured to accommodate the passage of a surgical instrument therethrough. The membrane s-;al 996 will help to prevent the egress of insufflation gasses from the access device 900 when an mstnnnent is presenttrjereui and the valve member 950 is in an open, position. Referring now to Figs. 18 and 19, there is aperspective view of another embodiment of the surgical'access device of the subject invention, which is designatedbyreferenc^nuroexallOOO and includes a detachable valve housing 1010. More particularly, as best seeninFig. 5. the valve housing 1010 is detachably connected to the cannula bousing 10S0. 1ms will enable a surgeon to utilize the cannula houaiiig 1080 daring "foe performance of procedures in which the valve . housing is not required, ItwMah^enabktnesurgeontoreadUyranovcspeGimcns from the surgical site. As illustrated, the detachable relationship of valve housing 1010 and cannuH housing 1080 is facilitated by a threaded coiinection therebetween. -22- WO 2004/106782 PCTAJS2004/017177 Alternative coupling arrangements are envisioned and 'well "within the scope of the subject disclosure. Although Hie valve asseinbly of the subject invention and surgical access device incorporating fte same have been described with, reject to preferred embodiments, those skilled in fee-art will rejidily appreciate that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of Hie subject invention as defined by the appended claims. Additionally, the valve asseinbly of the subj ect invention can be used in alternative applications not described hereinabove. For example, fhe valve can be installed in a sink drain, to eliminate the need for a ping. Additionally, the valve can replace bungs orplngs used to seal penetrations in the hull of boats. Still further, the valve can replace caps'on hand creams, toothpaste, etc. -23- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A valve assembly oompiisir^: a) a valve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion, the upper and lower body portions defining an internal chamber for acannmodatfog a valve member and a ecu; jal axis for fhe valve, the housing having axialry aligned inlet and outlet ports formed in the upper and lower body portions, respectively; b) a generally spherical, valve member seated within the internal chamber of the valve housing and having EJI axial bore extending therethrough, fhe valve member mounted for movement between an open po sition wherein, the axial bore of the valve member is axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ports of fee valve housing, and a closed position wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing; and c) ' means operaftvely associated, with the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between fee open, position and me closed position, when the upper body portion of file housing is rotated about the central axis with, respect to the lower body portian. 2. A valve assembly as recited in .Claim 1, wherein the means operative^ associated -with the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position ami the closed position, includes a camming mechanism. -24- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004AU7177 3. AvalveassembfyasreciledmCIam2,wheiem mechanism includes cam. surfaces formed on ib& ejcterior surface of 1he valve member and a. cam pin formed on iiie interior surface of liiei^pper body portion of tiiehouaDg. 4.' A valw assembly as :recdtedm Clara 3, whra^ formed on the exterior surface of the valve member are defined by a. pair of arcuate cam lobes formed at angles to one another. 5. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 2, wherein, fiie camming mechanism, includes at least one arcaate recess formed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on me: jolerior surface of the upper body portion of thehousing for engaging with the cam recess, . 6. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1; wherein fee valve member is mounted for serial rotation within Ike interior chamber about an axis extending peapendicular to the central axis defined by the upper and lower body portion of the valve nousing. 7. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1, wlierein the housing includes means associated with the inlet port for en$ paging the valve with a receptacle oc tubing. 8. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1, wherein the housing includes zoeans associated with the outlet port for engaging the valve wifh a receptacle or tubing. -25- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 9. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1, wherein the valve member includes a sealing surface adapted for sealing engagement with a valve seat formed in the housing when the valve is in tfre closed position, 10. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 9, wherein the sealing surface of me valve member includes an annular recess naying an o -ring disposed therein. 11. A valve assembly as recited, ra Claim 9, wherein the valve member has an outer radius which, is larger Ufaan. an inner radius of the valve seat so as to create an interference fit therewith when the valve assembly is in the closed position. . 12, A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1, further comprising a frangible ring engaged with exterior of the valve noising to provide a visual indication of whether the valve has been opened. 13. A valve assembly as recitedin Claim 1, former comprising a frangible scaling disc inserted into the interior clamber of the valve to provide a visual irniication of whether the valve has been opened and wlierein the valve member includes means for puncturing the disc when foe valve is opened, 14. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 1, wherein the axial bore of the valve member is adapted and configured lor receiving and storing an article of manufecture when the valve is in the closed position. 26- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 15. A valve assembly as recited m Claim 1, further cjomprisiog means associated wifh t3ie valve housing for fecflitaii&g the axial rotation of the lower body portion, of the housing relative to tie upper body portion. 16. A valve assembly as recited in. Claim 1, "Wherein, a plurality of flow passages are formed in the valve member extending iheretbrough along an axis -winch is perpendicular to the axial bore such that "when the valve is in the closed position, fluid or air traverses the valve through the plurality of flow passages. 17. A valve assembly as recited in. Claim 1, wherein, the valve member moves between the open position, and the closed position whoa, foe iq>per body portion of the housing is rotated about 1he central &us between about 57 degrees and about 77 degrees witttrespect to the lower body portion. 18. A valve assembly as recited in. Claim 1, further cojnrmsiag a telescoping nozzle or sleeve disposed within, the axial bore of the valve member. -27- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US20G4/017177 19. A surgical access device comprising: a) _ a^veliousingdefiniDgavalveBeatferaccomriiodatiriga valve member, and having arially aligned iolttt and outlet ports; b) an. elongated cammia s'.eeve operatively associated with, the valve housing aad having an elongated passageway extending therethrough, which defines a longitudinal axis aligned with, the irlet and outlet ports of the valve housing; c) a generally spherical valve member seated within the valve housing and having an axial bore extending therethrough, the valve member mounted for movement between an open position wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axiatty aligned with the elongated passageway of fhe camrola sleeve and fhe inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed position wherein the axial bore of the valve member extends perpendicular to ihe elongated passageway o£ the cannula sleeve and the inlet and outlet ports of the Viirve housing; and d) means opexatively associated with the valve housing and the valve member formoving the valve member between the open position and the clos ed position. 20. A surgical access device as jrecited in Claim 19, wherein the valve - member is mounted for axial rotation within the valve seat about an ecris extending peipendicular to -the axially aligned inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, 21. A surgical access device as recited in. Claim 19, wherein the means for moving the valve member includes cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the yalve member and a cam pin mounted for movement relative to the cam surfaces of the valve member. -28- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 22. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 21, wherein the cam pin extends radially inwardly from a drive ring supported on the valve housing and moTmied for rotation about the longitudinal sens of the caimnla sleeve, and wherein rotation of the drive ring causes correspondfog rotation of the valve member wilhin . the valve seat of fhe valve housing. 23. A suigical access device as recited in. Claim 22, wherein the cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the valve member are defined by a pair of cam lobes oriented with respect to the axis of rotation, of the valve member at angles to one another. 24. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 19, "wherein the access device furfVr includes a membrane seal located proximal to me valve sear, the membrane seal having an opening aerially aligned wrfh the elongated passageway of me canmila sleeve dimensioned to accommodate tie passage of a surgical instrument theremrcragh. 25. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 19, wherein the cannula sleeve depends from a canrtnk housing associated with the valve housing. 26. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 25, wherein mo cannula housing is detachably connected to the valve housing. ■29- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 27. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 19, wherein the valve member includes a convex sealing surface, which, is aligned with the inlet port of the valve honsmg when the valve member is in th« dosed pdsitioa 28. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 19, wherein the means operattvely associated with the valve housing and fhe valve member for moving the valve member between, the open position and the closed position includes at least one arcuate recess formed cm. the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on the interior surface of 1he housing for engaging with, the cam recess. 29. A snrgkai access device as retritedin Claim. 19, wherein the valve member includes a sealing surface adapted for sealing engagement with lie valve seat formed in the housing when the valve is m&eclosedpositLom 30. A surgical access device as recited in Claim 29, wherein the sealing surface of the valve member includes an. aramlar recess having an o -ring disposed -therein. 31- A valve assembly comprising: a) avalve]K>nsii^de£iDnigavalveseatibra&Mnmiodatiaga valve member, and having axially aligned inlet and outlet ports; b) a generally spherical valve member seated wifbin the valve housing and having an axial bore extending merethrough, the valve member mounted for movement between an open, position, -wherein the axial bore of the valve- member is axially aligned with, the fnlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed -30- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US20G4/017177 position wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of aEgnmeot with the inlet " and outlet ports of the valve housing; and c) camming means operatively associated with the valve housing aad the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and fkc closed position. 32. .A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, wherein die valve member is mounted for axial rotation, within, the valve seat about an axis extending perpendicular to the aaialry aligned Met and outlet ports of the valve housing. 33. A valve assembly as reci^mClaioi 32, v^^ for moving the valve member includes cam surfaces formed on tiae exterior surface of the valve member and & cam. pin mounted for movement relative to The cam surfaces of the valve member. 34. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 33a wherein the cam pin extends radially inwardly from a drive ring supported on the valve housing and mounted for axial rotation relative to the axially aligned inlet and outlet ports, and wherein, rotation of me drive ring causes corresponding rotiition of the valve member within the valve seat of the valve housing. 35.. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 33, wherein me cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the Yahrs member arc defined by a pair of cam lobes oriented with respect to the axis of rotation of the valve member at angles to one another. -31- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 36. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, wherein, the means operatively associated wife, the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position includes a camming mechanism. 37. A valve assembly as recited in. Claim 31, whereinthc camrning; means includes at least one anaiatft recess farmed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on the interior surface of the housing for engaging with the cam recess. 38. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, wnerein the housing includes means associated, wrfli Ihe Met port for engaging lie valve with a receptacle or tubing. 39. A valve assembly as recited fa. Claim 31, wherein the housing includes means associated with ihe outlet port foi engaging the valv e with a receptacle or tubing, 40. A valve assembly as recited iu Claim 315 wherein the valve member includes a sealing surface adapted for sealing engagement with a valve seat formed in the housing when the valve is in the closed position. 41. A valve assembly as xecited in Claim 37, wherem the sealing surf ace of the valve member includes an annular recess having an o -ring disposed therein. -32- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 42. Avahfeassarfclyasrecit^iaClaimSl.&rliCTPompiisinga frangible ring engaged with exterior of fiie v alve housing to provide a visual indication of whether the valve has been, opened. 43. A valye assembly as recited in Claim 31, further comprising a frangible sealing disc inserted into toe interior chamber of the valve to provide a visual indication of whether the valve has been opened and where in the valve member includes means for puncturing the disc when the valve is opened. 44. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, wherein the axial bore of the valye member ia adapted and configured for receiving and storing an article of manufacture when the valve is in the dosed position. 45. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, further comprising means associated with the valve housing for facilitating the axial rotation, ofthe lower body portion of the'housing relative to fhe upper body portion. 46. A valve assembly as recited, in Claim 31, wherein a plurality of flow passages are formed in the valve member extending therethrough along an axis which is perpendicular to the axial bore such 1hat when the valve is in the closed position, fluid or air traverses the valve Through the plurality of flow passages. '47. A valve assembly as recited in Claim 31, wherein the valve member moves between the open position and the closed position when an upper body portion -33- WO 2004/106782 PCT/US2004/017177 of the housing-is rotated about the cental asis between about 57 degrees and about 77 degrees with respect to a lower body portion of the housing. 48. A valve assembly as recited m Claim 31, wherein lie valve member has an outer radius which is larger than an hiner radius of -foe valve seat so as to create aa interference fit therewith, when Hie valve assembly is in the closed position. 49. A valve assembly aa recited in. Claim 31, further comprising a telescoping nozzle or sleeve disposed withiafhe axial bore of the valve member. -34- Disclosed is a valve/seal assembly that is adapted for use in a variety of applications, such as for example, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, household appliance and marine. The disclosed valve in- cludes, inter alia, a varve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion and a generally spherical valve member. The upper and iowerbody portions of the housing define an internal chamber for accommodating the valve member and a central axis for the valve. The generally spherical valve member is seated . within the internal chamber of the valve housing and has an axial bore extending therethrongh. The valve member is mounted for movement between an open po- sition; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. The valve assembly finther includes a camming mechanism that is opera- tively associated with the valve housing and Ihe valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position.

Documents:

02473-kolnp-2005-abstract.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-claims.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-description complete.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-drawings.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-form 1.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-form 3.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-form 5.pdf

02473-kolnp-2005-international publication.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-(13-03-2012)-AMANDED CLAIMS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-(13-03-2012)-AMANDED PAGES OF SPECIFICATION.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-(13-03-2012)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-(13-03-2012)-DRAWINGS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-ABSTRACT.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-AMANDED CLAIMS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-ASSIGNMENT.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-CANCELLED PAGES.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-CORRESPONDENCE 1.1.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-CORRESPONDENCE 1.2.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-DRAWINGS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 1.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 13 1.1.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 13.pdf

2473-kolnp-2005-form 18.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 2.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 3.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-FORM 5.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GPA.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-ABSTRACT.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-CLAIMS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-DRAWINGS.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-FORM 1.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-FORM 2.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-LETTER PATENT.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-GRANTED-SPECIFICATION.pdf

2473-kolnp-2005-international search report.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-OTHERS 1.1.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-OTHERS.pdf

2473-kolnp-2005-pct request form.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-PETITION UNDER RULE 137.pdf

2473-KOLNP-2005-REPLY TO EXAMINATION REPORT.pdf

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