FILTER ASSEMBLY HAVING A FLEXIBLE HOUSING AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

摘要

A fluid filter assembly (10) for filtering fluids such as blood includes first and second filter housing elements (20, 22) formed by an injection molding process. Each element (20, 22) is flexible and includes a peripheral flange (24) formed thereabout and a fluid communicating port (40) formed therein. Filter media, such as a filter membrane, is sealed between the mating flanges (24) of two elements (20, 22). The fluid filter assembly (10) is capable of collapsing and expanding during the filtration process depending upon the composition of the fluid passed therethrough. A method of making the filter assembly (10) and systems for using the filter assembly (10) are also described.