A docking device

Abstract

A docking device is used in a waste collection and treatment system to transport waste generated during medical procedures collected by the waste collection equipment in the system. The docking device includes: a mating head for mating with the mating bracket of the waste collection equipment; at least one actuating assembly disposed in the mating head and capable of freely extending and retracting in a specific direction; two docking end joints, the two docking end joints being connected to the at least one actuating assembly, and when the mating head is aligned with the mating bracket, the actuating assembly is actuated to bring the docking end joints into contact with the floating sleeve of the waste collection equipment to form a docking connection; wherein the mating head includes a mating plate, the mating plate includes two guide slots for snapping into the floating sleeve, and the mating end joints can pass through the guide slots. The docking device of the embodiment of the present invention can more easily dock with the waste collection equipment through the inclined surface of the mating plate.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with application number 201910489524.4 and name “A docking device” filed on June 6, 2019. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a docking device in a waste collection and treatment system for docking with a waste collection device for collecting and treating waste materials generated during medical treatment. Background Art

[0003] During certain surgical procedures, liquid, semi-solid, and solid wastes are inevitably generated. These include bodily fluids, such as blood, and perfusion solutions introduced to the surgical site during surgery. Solid and semi-solid wastes generated during surgery include tissue fragments and small pieces of surgical material that may remain in the body. Ideally, waste should be collected as soon as it is generated so that it does not contaminate the surgical site or become a biohazard in the operating room or other locations where the surgical procedure is performed.

[0004] A variety of waste collection and disposal systems exist in the prior art, allowing medical personnel to collect surgical waste during or after surgery. These systems primarily utilize a vacuum source to generate suction, drawing waste from the surgical site into a specific collection container. Specifically, upon activation, the vacuum source generates suction that reaches the surgical site, drawing waste through pipes in contact with the surgical site and into a specific collection container.

[0005] In the prior art, in medical waste collection and treatment systems, waste materials are collected in a waste collection container connected to a vacuum source. The waste collection container is generally mounted on a portable trolley with wheels for easy movement and transportation. Generally speaking, during the suction process, when the storage volume of the waste collection container reaches a predetermined volume, the waste collection container needs to be emptied. The early prior art practice is to push the waste collection device to a docking station and empty and clean it. After the waste collection unit is docked to the docking station, it begins to be emptied. Once emptied, the waste collection container is cleaned by the cleaning system through disinfection and cleaning. In a series of medical procedures, each procedure requires emptying. The frequent operation of pushing the waste collection device to the docking station each time brings a lot of inconvenience to the user and affects the progress of medical treatment. Therefore, in response to this technical defect, a transfer equipment has been developed that is specifically used to transport waste from waste collection equipment to a docking station, that is, a docking equipment that is specifically used to transport waste from waste collection equipment. The equipment usually includes two connectors that dock with two connectors of the waste collection equipment to form a liquid circuit connection. One liquid circuit is used to transfer the waste from the waste collection equipment to the docking equipment, and the other liquid circuit is used to clean the waste collection container of the waste collection equipment.

[0006] In one example of a prior art system, a docking device typically includes two connectors that automatically dock with two connectors on a waste collection device. The primary approach involves roughly aligning the docking device and the waste collection device. Once the two are roughly connected, an actuable assembly on the docking device moves the two connectors in up to six directions (up, down, forward, backward, left, and right) to align the two connectors. Because the connectors in prior art systems can only move in these four directions, their alignment is limited to four. Only after alignment is achieved can the connectors on the docking device be inserted by moving them forward and backward. In the prior art, the structure for achieving six-directional movement of the docking device end connector requires a bracket capable of moving in four directions. This bracket requires multiple elastic components and multiple structural components to achieve this, and a stepper motor is required to achieve movement in the other two directions. This results in a complex structure and high equipment cost. In addition, the docking device and the waste collection device must be very precisely aligned before the connector can be inserted. That is, the docking heads of the docking device and the waste collection device must be aligned before contact before the plug can be matched with the socket, and alignment cannot be continued after the plug contacts the socket. This structure not only complicates the alignment operation, but also increases the complexity and cost of the equipment. At the same time, due to the low fault tolerance, if the two connectors of the docking device and the two connectors of the waste collection device are not aligned, the connectors will be damaged when docked. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a waste collection device that can automatically align and complete docking during the docking process. The waste collection device has a simple structure and can save manufacturing costs and material costs.

[0008] In order to solve the above technical problems, an embodiment of the present invention provides a docking device for use in a waste collection and treatment system, for transporting waste generated during medical procedures collected by a waste collection device in the system, the docking device comprising:

[0009] a mating head, adapted to mate with a mating bracket of the waste collection device;

[0010] At least one actuating assembly, disposed in the mating head and capable of freely extending and retracting in a specific direction;

[0011] Two butt joints, the two butt joints being connected to the at least one actuating assembly, and when the mating joint portion is aligned with the mating bracket, the actuating assembly is actuated to bring the butt joints into contact with the floating sleeve of the waste collection device to form a butt joint;

[0012] Wherein, the matching head portion includes a matching plate, and the matching plate includes two guide bayonet holes for clamping into the floating sleeve, and the butt end connector can pass through the guide bayonet holes.

[0013] Furthermore, the guide bayonet is roughly U-shaped.

[0014] Furthermore, the adapter plate includes two correction side surfaces, and the correction side surfaces are wedge-shaped structures.

[0015] Furthermore, there are two actuating assemblies, which are individually connected to the two butt-end connectors.

[0016] Furthermore, the actuating assembly is a pneumatic pump.

[0017] Furthermore, the actuating component is a stepping motor.

[0018] Furthermore, the mating head also includes a suction device, which is an electromagnet.

[0019] Furthermore, the docking device further includes two guide side plates arranged on both sides of the mating head for matching the waste collection device.

[0020] Furthermore, the guide side panels are provided with a plurality of guide rails, and the guide rails are made of flexible materials.

[0021] Furthermore, the inner end of the guide bayonet is an arc surface, and the side end is a wedge-shaped structure so that the opening width of the bayonet gradually decreases from the front end to the inner end.

[0022] Furthermore, the guide bayonet includes a first upper bayonet and a second upper bayonet, wherein the first upper bayonet is used to guide the floating sleeve, and the second upper bayonet is used to limit the position of the floating sleeve.

[0023] Furthermore, one of the two butt-end connectors is connected to a discharge interface for discharging waste, and the other is connected to a cleaning interface for injecting cleaning fluid.

[0024] The implementation of the embodiment of the present invention has the following beneficial effects: the docking device in this embodiment is provided with a matching plate with a correction side, which can provide greater position tolerance during the docking process between the docking device and the waste collection device, improve the docking accuracy, and facilitate the operation of the user, while reducing the risk of collision between the docking device and the waste collection device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, without paying any creative work, other drawings obtained based on these drawings still fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 1 A waste collection and treatment system in which the waste collection equipment and docking equipment are not docked.

[0027] Figure 2 A waste collection and treatment system in which the waste collection equipment and the docking equipment are docked.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the front internal structure of the waste collection device of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the side internal structure of the waste collection device of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of the docking device of the present invention without the baffle retracted.

[0031] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the docking device of the present invention being retracted into the baffle.

[0032] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the structure of the matching bracket 110.

[0033] Figure 8 It is a structural diagram of the second floating sleeve in the suspended moving state.

[0034] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of the EE section.

[0035] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the structure of the matching head.

[0036] Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the internal structure of the matching head.

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the mating head and the mating bracket after they are mated.

[0038] Figure 13 for Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of CC section.

[0039] Figure 14 for Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of the DD section.

[0040] Figure 15 Schematic diagram of the structure when the baffle is in the first position.

[0041] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of part of the internal structure of the docking device.

[0042] Figure 17 It is a structural diagram of the baffle reset component.

[0043] Figure 18 This is another way to install the elastic component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The following descriptions of the embodiments refer to the accompanying drawings to illustrate specific embodiments in which the present invention may be implemented. Directional terms used herein, such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," and "side," refer only to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, these directional terms are intended to facilitate explanation and understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0045] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clear, the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] like Figures 1-4 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A waste collection and treatment system 10 is shown, which includes a waste collection device 100 and a docking device 200. Figure 1 The waste collection and treatment system 10 is in a state where the waste collection device 100 and the docking device 200 are not docked. Figure 2 The waste collection and disposal system 10 is shown with the waste collection device 100 and the docking device 200 docked. The waste collection device 100 can be connected to an external suction line (not shown) via a consumables box 300. The external suction line can be connected to a suction connector (not shown), which can be a separate connector or attached to the surgical instrument. The suction force at the suction connector transports waste through the external suction line to the waste collection device 100 for storage. After docking with the waste collection device 100, the docking device 200 can drain waste from the waste collection device 100 and simultaneously create a cleaning path for the waste collection container 109 of the waste collection device 100. The drainage circuit control and flushing circuit control of the waste collection and disposal system 10 are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0047] The waste collection device 100 is used in the waste collection and treatment system 10 to collect waste generated during medical procedures and is used to dock with the docking device 200 to discharge the waste. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The waste collection device 100 includes a portable trolley 108 , at least one waste collection container 109 mounted on the portable trolley, a matching bracket 110 , two collection end connectors 112 , 114 , and two floating sleeves 111 , 113 .

[0048] Portable trolley 108 is moved by four first rollers 105 mounted thereon. Specifically, portable trolley 108 includes a collection terminal housing 101, a handle 102 disposed in the middle of the housing 101, and a collection terminal display screen 103 disposed on the top of the collection terminal housing 101. Preferably, the collection terminal display screen 103 is foldably mounted on the collection terminal housing 101. Portable trolley 108 also includes a support rod 104.

[0049] See also Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the front internal structure of the waste collection device of the present invention. A waste collection container 109 is mounted on a portable trolley 108 and is used to store waste generated during medical procedures. In this embodiment, a waste collection container 109 is provided, comprising a first storage compartment 117 and a second storage compartment 117, wherein the volume of the first storage compartment 116 is larger than the volume of the second storage compartment 117. The number of waste collection containers can also be two, which is equivalent to separating the first storage compartment 117 and the second storage compartment 117 to form two independent waste collection containers. The waste collection container 109 is mounted inside the collection end housing 101. Preferably, corresponding observation windows are provided on the collection end housing 101 for observing the waste in the waste collection container 109, such as the liquid level or color. In this example, corresponding first observation windows 106 and second observation windows 107 are provided for observing the first storage compartment 116 and the second storage compartment 117, respectively.

[0050] The coupling bracket 110 is mounted on the bottom frame 118 of the portable dolly 108 for coupling with the docking device 200. The coupling bracket 110 forms a coupling space 1100 for accommodating the coupling head 210 of the docking device 200.

[0051] Two collecting end connectors 112 and 114 are attached to the matching bracket 110 and are respectively connected to at least one waste collection container 109. One collecting end connector 112 is used to discharge waste from the waste collection container 109, and the other collecting end connector 114 is used to introduce cleaning liquid for cleaning the at least one waste collection container 109. In this embodiment, for the sake of distinction, the collecting end connector 112 used for discharging waste from the waste collection container 109 is referred to as the first collecting end connector 112, and the collecting end connector 114 used for introducing cleaning liquid for cleaning the waste collection container 109 is referred to as the second collecting end connector 114. Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the waste collection device of the present invention. Figure 4 As shown, the first collecting end joint 112 is connected to the waste collection container 109 through the discharge pipe 122. Specifically, the first collecting end joint 112 is connected to the first containing chamber 116 of the waste collection container 109 through the discharge pipe 122, that is, one end of the discharge pipe 122 is connected to the first collecting end joint 112, and the other end is connected to the bottom of the first containing chamber 116; the second collecting end joint 114 is connected to the second containing chamber 117 of the waste collection container 109 through the cleaning pipe 124, that is, one end of the cleaning pipe 124 is connected to the second collecting end joint 114, and the other end is connected to the top of the second containing chamber 117.

[0052] Two floating sleeves 111 and 113 are mounted on the mating bracket 110 and correspondingly sleeved on the two collecting end connectors 112 and 114. They are used to guide the two butt-end connectors 211 and 213 of the docking device 200 to connect with the two collecting end connectors 112 and 114. The two floating sleeves 111 and 113 can float relative to the mating bracket 110 and guide the two butt-end connectors 211 and 213 to engage with the two collecting end connectors 112 and 114. When the butt-end connectors 211 and 213 of the docking device 200 are not connected, the corresponding floating sleeves 111 and 113 are in the initial position. When the butt-end connectors 211 and 213 are connected, the floating sleeves 111 and 113 can float relative to the mating bracket 110 and guide the two butt-end connectors 211 and 213 to engage with the two collecting end connectors 112 and 114.

[0053] In this embodiment, the waste collection device 100 can be described as comprising:

[0054] portable trolley 108;

[0055] At least one waste collection container 109 mounted on a portable trolley;

[0056] Matching bracket 110;

[0057] A first collecting end connector 112 and a second collecting end connector 114 are attached to the matching bracket 110; the first collecting end connector 112 and the second collecting end connector 114 are both connected to at least one waste collection container 109, wherein the first collecting end connector 112 is used to discharge waste from the at least one waste collection container 109, and the second collecting end connector 114 is used to introduce a cleaning liquid for cleaning the at least one waste collection container 109;

[0058] The first floating sleeve 111 and the second floating sleeve 113 are attached to the matching bracket 110, the first floating sleeve 111 is sleeved on the first collecting end joint 112, and the second floating sleeve 113 is sleeved on the second collecting end joint 114; the first floating sleeve 111 is used to guide the first docking end joint 211 of the docking device 200 to connect with the first collecting end joint 112, and the second floating sleeve 113 is used to guide the second docking end joint 214 of the docking device 200 to connect with the second collecting end joint 114; when the first floating sleeve 111 is sleeved on the first collecting end joint 112, the second floating sleeve 113 is used to guide the second docking end joint 214 of the docking device 200 to connect with the second collecting end joint 114; When the movable sleeve 111 and the second floating sleeve 113 are not connected to the first collecting end joint 112 and the second butt end joint 114 accordingly, the first floating sleeve 111 and the second floating sleeve 113 are in the initial position; in the process of connecting the first butt end joint 211 and the second butt end joint 214, the first floating sleeve 111 and the second floating sleeve 113 can be suspended and moved relative to the matching bracket 110 and guide the first butt end joint 211 and the second butt end joint 214 to be aligned and engaged with the first collecting end joint 112 and the second collecting end joint 114 accordingly.

[0059] See also Figures 1-12 The waste collection and treatment system 10 further includes a docking device 200 , which includes a mating head 210 , at least one actuating assembly 231 , 241 , and two docking end connectors 212 , 214 .

[0060] The mating head 210 is used to mate with the mating bracket 110 of the waste collection device 100 ; specifically, the mating head 210 is inserted into the mating space 1100 of the mating bracket 110 to achieve preliminary alignment of the docking device 200 and the waste collection device 100 .

[0061] At least one actuating assembly 231 , 241 is disposed in the mating head 210 and is capable of freely moving in a specific direction.

[0062] Two butt joints 212, 214 are connected to at least one actuating assembly 231, 241. When the mating head 210 is aligned with the mating bracket 110, the actuating assemblies 231, 241 are activated to bring the butt joints 212, 214 into contact with the floating sleeves 111, 113, enabling them to form a butt joint. The butt joints 212, 214 cause the floating sleeves 111, 113 to levitate and guide the butt joints 212, 214 into engagement with the collection end joints 112, 114. In this embodiment, one butt joint 212 is used to transport waste from the waste collection container 109, and the other butt joint 214 is used to transport cleaning fluid for cleaning the waste collection container 109. For ease of distinction, the docking end connector 212 used to transport waste from the waste collection container 109 is referred to as the first docking end connector 212. The first docking end connector 212 can dock with the first collection end connector 112 to form a waste discharge passage, and the second docking end connector 214 can dock with the second collection end connector 114 to form a passage for cleaning the waste collection container 109. Specifically, the second docking end connector 214 is connected to the cleaning port 207 for injecting cleaning fluid.

[0063] In this embodiment, two actuator assemblies 231 and 241 are provided. The one attached to the first docking end connector 212 is referred to as the first actuator assembly 231, and the one attached to the second docking end connector 214 is referred to as the second actuator assembly 241. The two actuator assemblies 231 and 241 can be pneumatic pumps, stepper motors, or other retractable components or mechanical structures. In this embodiment, pneumatic pumps are preferred, as they reduce the number of circuit components in the docking device 200, thereby minimizing circuit failures and potential risks posed by complex circuits. Furthermore, the speed and force of the pneumatic pumps during the pushing process facilitate the guiding effect of the floating sleeves 111 and 113 on the docking end connectors 212 and 214. The docking device 200 also includes a suction pump (not shown) connected to the first docking end connector 212 to discharge waste suctioned by the first docking end connector 212 through the discharge connector 208.

[0064] See also Figure 5 and Figure 6 The docking device 200 further includes a housing 201, which includes two guide side panels 202. The front ends of the guide side panels 202 are positioned substantially the same as or more forward than the front end panel 215 of the mating head 210. Figure 2 and Figure 3The two guide side panels 202 are matched with the base frame 118 of the portable trolley 108. At the same time, in order to more conveniently and accurately mate the docking device 200 with the waste collection device 100, guide rails 209 are further provided on the inner side of the guide side panels 202. Preferably, each guide side panel 202 is provided with 2-4 guide rails 209. The guide rails 209 are made of flexible material and can be used as buffer strips to prevent the docking device 200 and the waste collection device 100 from colliding and causing wear.

[0065] The docking head 210 includes a front panel 215 on which is mounted an attractor 216, which is an electromagnet. When the docking head 210 of the docking device 200 is roughly aligned with the docking space 1100 of the docking bracket 110, the attractor 216 is turned on. The attractor 216 provides a preset attraction force to quickly and automatically engage the docking head 210 of the docking device 200 with the docking bracket 110 of the waste collection device 100 to form a tight connection structure.

[0066] See also Figure 6 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 The mating head 210 further includes a mating plate 217. The mating plate 217 includes two guide slots 211 and 213 for receiving the floating sleeves 111 and 113. The mating end connectors 212 and 214 can pass through the two guide slots 211 and 213, respectively. Specifically, the guide slot 211 for passing through the first mating end connector 212 is referred to as the first guide slot 211, and the guide slot 213 for passing through the second mating end connector 214 is referred to as the second guide slot 213. Preferably, the guide slots are approximately U-shaped, with an arcuate inner end and wedge-shaped side ends 235 and 245. This allows the width of the opening to gradually decrease from the front end to the inner end. This structure allows the floating sleeves 111 and 113 to gradually align with the guide slots 211 and 213 without causing collision when the mating head 210 is pushed into the mating space 1100 of the mating bracket 110. The docking device 200 further includes a plurality of second rollers 205 .

[0067] In addition, Figure 5 As shown, the docking device 200 further includes a baffle 220. When the waste collection device 100 is not connected, the baffle 220 is in a first position, as shown in FIG. Figure 15 As shown, the two butt end connectors 212 and 214 are shielded; when the waste collection device 100 is connected, the baffle 220 is in the second position, exposing the two butt end connectors 212 and 214 to contact and dock with the floating sleeves 111 and 113 of the waste collection device 100.

[0068] The baffle 220 includes a horizontal plate 221 for shielding the two butt joints 212, 214, and a vertical plate 222 that contacts and can be pushed by the waste collection device 100. When the mating head 210 is pushed into the mating space 1100, the waste collection device 100 pushes the vertical plate 222 of the baffle 220, causing the horizontal plate 221 to enter the interior of the mating device 200, exposing the two butt joints 212, 214. After the mating head 210 is separated from the mating space 1100, the baffle 220 can be manually reset to its first position to shield the mating plate 217 and the butt joints 212, 214.

[0069] Preferably, the docking device 200 further includes a baffle resetting assembly connected to the baffle 220 for resetting the baffle 220 from the second position to the first position. Figure 16-17 As shown, the baffle reset assembly includes at least one baffle displacement assembly 2210 connected to the baffle 220, and at least one elastic assembly 2214 matched with the baffle displacement assembly 2210. The baffle displacement assembly 2210 is located inside the shell 201. In this embodiment, the number of baffle displacement assemblies 2210 and elastic assembly 2214 is two. Specifically, the baffle displacement assembly 2210 includes a fixed rod 2212, a baffle connector 2213 that can slide on the fixed rod 2212, and the elastic assembly 2214 is connected to the baffle connector 2213. The baffle connector 2213 is mounted on the fixed rod 2212 and can slide on the fixed rod 2212, and the baffle connector 221 is connected to the horizontal plate 221. Specifically, the connection can be non-detachable or detachable by welding, clamping, etc. When the baffle 220 is pushed into the mating space 1100 at the mating head 210, the waste collection device 100 pushes the vertical plate 222 of the baffle 220, causing the horizontal plate 221 to enter the interior of the docking device 200, exposing the two docking end connectors 212 and 214. Simultaneously, the baffle connector 2213 slides on the fixing rod 2212 and compresses the elastic component 2214. After the mating head 210 is separated from the mating space 1100, the elastic component 2214, which is a spring mounted on the fixing rod 2212, returns the baffle 220 to the first position.

[0070] See also Figure 18 , Figure 18This is another installation method for the elastic component. The elastic component 2214 is mounted on the fixed rod 2212 and located between the baffle connector 2213 and the vertical plate 222. One end of the elastic component 2214 is fixed to the baffle connector 2213, and the other end is fixed to the vertical plate 222. When the baffle 220 is pushed into the mating space 1100 at the mating head 210, the waste collection device 100 pushes the vertical plate 222 of the baffle 220, allowing the horizontal plate 221 to enter the interior of the docking device 200, exposing the two docking end connectors 212 and 214. Simultaneously, the baffle connector 2213 slides on the fixed rod 2212, compressing and stretching the elastic component 2214. After the mating head 210 is separated from the mating space 1100, the elastic component 2214, which is a spring mounted on the fixed rod 2212, returns the baffle 220 to its first position.

[0071] The baffle connecting member 2213 is also used to clamp the baffle 220 in the first position when the baffle 220 is reset to the first position to prevent the baffle 220 from falling off. Alternatively, a separate device can be provided to clamp the baffle 220 in the first position.

[0072] Furthermore, the baffle 220 further includes at least one sliding component 2211, such as Figure 10 As shown, the mating head 210 further includes a sliding track 2181 matched with the sliding assembly 221 , wherein the sliding assembly 221 is a metal or plastic sheet that can slide on the sliding track 2181 and is connected to the horizontal plate 221 .

[0073] Furthermore, the baffle 220 further includes guide rail sliding holes 2221 , which are the same in number as the guide rails 209 and are used for the guide rails 209 to pass through.

[0074] The mating head 210 also includes a head base 204, to which a front panel 215 and a mating plate 217 are mounted. Actuating assemblies 231 and 241 are also mounted. The mating plate 217 is wider than the front panel 215. Its two alignment side panels 218 protrude beyond the side panels of the head base 204, and its width is also wider than the head base 204. The alignment side panels 204 are wedge-shaped, i.e., inclined, so that the front width of the mating plate 217 is narrower than the rear width. This allows the mating head 210 and the mating bracket 110 to automatically align when the mating head 210 is inserted into the mating space 1100 of the mating bracket 110, significantly reducing the risk of damage from collision. When the mating head 210 of the docking device 200 is roughly aligned with the mating space 1100 of the mating bracket 110, the suction device 216 is activated, and the suction force increases instantly. The correction side 218 and the guide tabs 211 and 213 prevent serious collisions between the mating head 210 and the mating bracket 110, even if they are not completely aligned. This provides operational tolerance during the alignment process and prevents damage to the device. Preferably, the rear portion of the mating plate 217 can form a tight or interference fit with the mating space 1100. The front portion of the mating plate 217 forms a clearance fit with the mating space 1100.

[0075] See also Figure 7-Figure 9 , Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the matching bracket 110, Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of the second floating sleeve in a suspended moving state. Figure 9 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of section EE.

[0076] like Figure 7 As shown, the mating bracket 110 includes a fixing plate 115 and a guide plate 118. The guide plate 118 and the fixing plate 115 form a mating space 1100 for accommodating the mating head 210 of the docking device 200. Specifically, the fixing plate 115 is located at the top of the mating bracket 110. The fixing plate 118 is composed of the back plate and two side plates of the mating bracket 110. In this embodiment, the fixing plate 115 and the guide plate 118 are split structures and can be installed and fixed by screws or welding. In other embodiments, the fixing plate 115 and the guide plate 118 can also be formed as one piece.

[0077] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the fixed plate 115 is provided with two fixing holes 163 for mounting the two floating sleeves 111 and 113. The first floating sleeve 111 and the second floating sleeve 113 extend through the two fixing holes 153 and 163, respectively. Specifically, the fixed plate 115 includes two position-limiting fixing sleeves 134 and 144, respectively mounted in the two fixing holes 163. The two floating sleeves 111 and 113 have the same structure. Taking the second floating sleeve 113 as an example, the floating sleeve 113 refers to the second floating sleeve 113 and will not be described in detail here. The floating sleeve 113 includes a floating sleeve 130 and a first elastic component 155. The floating sleeve 130 is sleeved onto the collection end connector 114 and inserted into the position-limiting fixed sleeve 134. The floating sleeve 130 includes a guide port 154 for guiding the docking end connector 212 and a floatable port 135 for engaging with the position-limiting fixed sleeve 134 in its initial state. When the docking end connector 214 of the docking device 200 is not connected, the floatable port 135 engages with the position-limiting fixed sleeve 134, and the floating sleeve 113 is in its initial position. When the docking end connector 214 is connected, the floatable port 135 moves relative to the position-limiting fixed sleeve 134, guiding the docking end connector 214 to align with the corresponding collection end connector 114 and complete the engagement to form a cleaning passage. A first elastic member 155 is located between the guide port 154 and the position-limiting fixed sleeve 134, and is used to limit the movement of the floating sleeve 130 during the docking end connector 214 connection process and return the floating sleeve 113 to its initial state after the docking end connector 214 is removed.

[0078] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, taking the position-limiting fixing sleeve 134 as an example, the position-limiting fixing sleeve 134 includes: a snap-fit ​​portion 1344; a docking top portion 1340 for docking with the floatable port 135 in the initial state; a first position-limiting inner cavity 1342 for defining one end of the first elastic component 155; and a second position-limiting inner cavity 1343 for accommodating and defining the position of the guide port 154. In other embodiments, the first position-limiting inner cavity 1342 and the second position-limiting inner cavity 1343 can be combined into a single inner cavity. The snap-fit ​​portion 1344 is used to snap the lower end of the position-limiting fixing sleeve 134 into the sleeve slot 1531 of the fixing through-hole 153, while the upper end is secured by a first clip 133 disposed between the position-limiting fixing sleeve 134 and the fixing plate 115 for securing the position-limiting fixing sleeve 134. The first clip 133 includes a first elastic structure 139. Similarly, the position-limiting fixing sleeve 144 also has the same structure, and its upper end is fastened by a first card 143 disposed between the position-limiting fixing sleeve 144 and the fixing plate 115 for fastening the position-limiting fixing sleeve 144. The first card 143 includes an elastic structure 149.

[0079] The floating sleeve 113 and the collecting end connector 114 are fixedly connected to form a whole. The outer walls of the floating sleeve 113 and the collecting end connector 114 can be integrally formed. Figure 9 As shown, it is connected by threads. After the docking end connector 214 is connected, it is pushed by the actuating assembly and the first elastic component 155 is compressed. At this time, the floating port 135 is separated from the docking top 1340 of the limiting fixed sleeve 134. At this time, the floating sleeve 113 and the collecting end connector 114 connected thereto can achieve floating movement under the thrust of the actuating assembly and the force of the first elastic component 155, and can swing in any direction within a certain range, thereby achieving guidance and position correction of the docking end connector 214 and completing the final alignment. The guide port 135 of the floating sleeve 130 is also provided with an outer tube 132, and the outer tube 132 is provided with a limiting edge 131 that cooperates with the matching head 210. The diameter of the limiting edge 131 is larger than the diameter of the main body of the outer tube 132, as shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown, Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the mating head 210 and the mating bracket 110 after mating. For ease of description, it is set to a state where the first collecting end joint 112 and the first butt joint 212 are mated and the second collecting end joint 114 and the second butt joint 214 are not mated. Figure 12 As mentioned above, the limiting edge 131 is mainly used to cooperate with the adapter plate 217. After the adapter plate 217 is pushed in, the limiting edge 131 is located below the adapter plate 217, and the main body of the outer tube 132 is locked into the guide slot 213 of the adapter plate 217. When the floating sleeve 113 and the collection end connector 114 connected thereto are able to achieve floating movement under the thrust of the actuating assembly 241 and the force of the first elastic component 155, when they rise to the position of the adapter plate 217, the limiting edge 131 can limit the position of the floating sleeve 113, thereby preventing the floating sleeve 113 from swinging excessively, which would increase the difficulty of docking the collection end connector 114 and the docking end connector 214. Figure 11 The guide slot 211 includes a first upper slot 233 and a second upper slot 234. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The outer tube 132 of the floating sleeve 111 contacts the first upper retaining groove 233. Specifically, the first upper retaining groove 233 is used to guide the floating sleeve 111. The second upper retaining groove 234 can define the position of the floating sleeve 111, particularly the position of the limiting edge 131 of the floating sleeve 111. Specifically, the opening of the second upper retaining groove 234 is larger than the opening of the first upper retaining groove 233. The other guide retaining groove 213 also has the same structure, including a first upper retaining groove 243 and a second upper retaining groove 244.

[0080] The outer tube 132 of the floating sleeve 113 and the floating sleeve 130 form a limiting groove 1301 for limiting the other end of the first elastic component 155. The first elastic component 155 is specifically a first spring. Figure 9 As shown, the first elastic component 155 is sleeved on the floating sleeve 130, with one end of the first elastic component 155 limited in position by the limiting groove 1301 and the other end of the first elastic component 155 limited in position by the first limiting inner cavity 1342. The outer tube 142 of the floating sleeve 114, i.e., the second floating sleeve 114, and the floating sleeve 140 form a limiting groove 1401 for limiting the other end of the first elastic component 155. The first elastic component 155 is specifically a first spring. Figure 9 As shown, the first elastic component 155 is sleeved on the floating sleeve 140 , with one end thereof limited in position by the limiting groove 1401 , and the other end thereof limited in position by the first limiting inner cavity 1442 .

[0081] To facilitate docking between the mating head 210 and the mating bracket 110, the docking top 1340 includes a truncated cone-shaped first guide recess 1341, which serves to guide the floatable port 135. The floatable port 135 is a snap ring removably secured to the floating sleeve 130. Correspondingly, the snap ring 135 includes a truncated cone-shaped guide portion 1351 that mates with the first guide recess 1341. The guide portion 1351 and the first guide recess 1341 are similar in shape and size, and each has an inclined cross-section. When the floatable port 135 contacts the docking top 1340, the smaller diameter surface of the guide portion contacts the larger diameter surface of the first guide recess 1341. The gap between the guide portion 1351 and the first guide recess 1341 provides space for alignment and adjustment, and the first guide recess 1341 allows for gradual alignment of the guide portion 1351. A second card 136 for fastening the snap ring 135 is further provided between the floating sleeve 130 and the snap ring 135 , and the first card 133 includes a second elastic structure 138 . The guide port 154 is provided with a truncated cone-shaped guide port to better guide the second butt end connector 214 into the second floating sleeve 113 .

[0082] like Figure 12-14 As shown, after the first butt joint 212 is connected to the first floating sleeve 111, the first actuating assembly 231 pushes the first butt joint 212 upward through the connecting rod 232, and the first butt joint 212 and the first collecting end joint 112 are combined to form a Figure 13The waste discharge path is indicated by the arrow in the middle. When the second actuating assembly 241 is closed, the connecting rod 242 retracts, and the second butt-end connector 214 is separated from the second collecting end connector 114. The second butt-end connector 214 then exits the second floating sleeve 113, and the second butt-end connector 214 and the second collecting end connector 114 form an interruption in the cleaning path. Taking the second collecting end connector 114 as an example, the second collecting end connector 114 includes a connector seal 183 that can automatically close the connector port 181. The connector seal 183 contains a connector plunger 184, and a second elastic component 185 is sleeved on the connector plunger 184, one end of which is located within the connector seal 183 and the other end of which is sleeved on the connector fixing portion 186. The second collecting end connector 114 is opened and closed by the connector seal 183, and automatically closed by the second elastic component 185.

[0083] The implementation of the embodiments of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0084] First, the waste collection device in the embodiment of the present invention first matches the docking end joint of the docking device with the floating sleeve, and then docks the collection end joint with the docking end joint. After the docking end joint is inserted into the floating sleeve, the floating sleeve can float and move to guide the docking end joint into the floating sleeve and gradually align with the collection end joint. In addition, the floating movement of the floating sleeve also ensures that even if the docking end joint and the floating sleeve are not completely aligned, the docking end joint will not cause an impact on the floating sleeve, and will not cause a misaligned collision with the collection end joint to cause wear. That is, during the docking process between the waste collection device and the docking device, there can be a large position tolerance, which can not only improve the docking accuracy, but also facilitate the operation of the user, and at the same time reduce the damage caused by the collection end joint and the docking end joint due to inaccurate alignment;

[0085] Secondly, the structure of the waste collection device in this embodiment for achieving position guidance and correction is simple and low in complexity, requires few raw materials, is easy to manufacture, and reduces costs;

[0086] Furthermore, the docking device in this embodiment is provided with multiple structures that can automatically correct the alignment position during the docking process with the waste collection device, which can provide greater position tolerance, improve the docking accuracy, and facilitate the operation of the user;

[0087] Finally, the docking device in this embodiment features a matching plate with corrective side panels, which provides greater positional tolerance during docking between the device and the waste collection device, improving docking accuracy and facilitating operation while reducing the risk of collision between the two devices. Furthermore, the docking device features an automatically resettable baffle, effectively protecting the docking end connector from damage when not in operation, extending the device's service life and reducing maintenance costs.

[0088] The above disclosure is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and certainly cannot be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, equivalent changes made according to the claims of the present invention are still within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A docking device for use in a waste collection and treatment system for transporting waste generated during medical procedures collected by a waste collection device in the system, characterized in that: The docking device includes: a mating head, adapted to mate with a mating bracket of the waste collection device; At least one actuating assembly, disposed in the mating head and capable of freely extending and retracting in a specific direction; Two butt-end connectors, the two butt-end connectors being connected to the at least one actuating assembly, and when the mating head is aligned with the mating bracket, the actuating assembly is actuated to bring the butt-end connectors into contact with the floating sleeve of the waste collection device to form a butt connection; Wherein, the adapter head includes an adapter plate, the adapter plate includes two guide bayonet holes for clamping the floating sleeve, and the butt end connector can pass through the guide bayonet holes; The docking device further comprises two guide side plates provided on both sides of the mating head for matching the waste collection device; The guide side plate is provided with a plurality of guide rails, and the guide rails are made of flexible material; The inner end of the guide bayonet is an arc surface, and the side end is a wedge-shaped structure so that the opening width of the bayonet gradually decreases from the front end to the inner end; The guide bayonet includes a first upper bayonet and a second upper bayonet, wherein the first upper bayonet is used to guide the floating sleeve, and the second upper bayonet is used to limit the position of the floating sleeve.

2. The docking device according to claim 1, wherein: The guide bayonet is roughly U-shaped.

3. The docking device according to claim 1, wherein: The adapter plate includes two correction side surfaces, and the correction side surfaces are wedge-shaped structures.

4. The docking device according to claim 1, wherein: There are two actuating assemblies, which are respectively connected to the two butt-end connectors.

5. The docking device according to claim 4, wherein: The actuating assembly is a pneumatic pump.

6. The docking device according to claim 4, wherein: The actuating component is a stepping motor.

7. The docking device according to claim 1, wherein: The mating head also includes a suction device, which is an electromagnet.

8. The docking device according to claim 1, wherein: Of the two butt-end connectors, one is connected to a discharge interface for discharging waste, and the other is connected to a cleaning interface for injecting cleaning fluid.

Images