Clinical ampoule bottle clamping tool
By coordinating the design of the clamping mechanism, drive device, pressure detection module and photoelectric sensing system, the problems of uneven clamping force, low efficiency and poor safety of ampoule clamping tools are solved, and safe and efficient ampoule opening is achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- NORTHERN JIANGSU PEOPLES HOSPITAL
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing ampoule clamping tools have inaccurate clamping force control, which can easily lead to bottle breakage or unstable clamping. They are also cumbersome to operate and lack safety and adaptability.
By employing a collaborative design of clamping mechanism, drive device, pressure detection module, photoelectric sensing system and handle, and through the arc-shaped clamping surface and elastic buffer pad, combined with telescopic motor and sliding abutment, it achieves precise control of clamping force and safe clamping.
It improves the safety, efficiency, and accuracy of ampoule clamping, adapts to ampoules of different sizes and wall thicknesses, reduces breakage rate and operational complexity, and enhances the safety and efficiency of clinical operations.
Smart Images

Figure CN224147703U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a clinical ampoule clamping tool. Background Technology
[0002] Ampoules, as highly sealed glass containers, are used to store injectable drugs, vaccines, and other liquid medications with stringent storage requirements. In clinical settings, healthcare workers frequently need to open ampoules to extract medication. However, the traditional method relies on healthcare workers manually breaking the neck of the ampoule. While simple and direct, this method poses several safety hazards. During manual breaking, glass shards can easily fly, potentially contaminating the medication and injuring healthcare workers' hands, increasing occupational exposure risks.
[0003] To address the shortcomings of traditional manual ampoule-breaking methods, various ampoule clamping tools have been developed to assist healthcare professionals in opening ampoules mechanically or electrically. These include mechanical and electric clamping tools. Mechanical clamping tools typically use manual pressing or spring mechanisms to hold the ampoule in place, applying external force to break the neck. Electric clamping tools utilize electric power for automated operation, enabling faster ampoule opening. Electric clamping tools are usually equipped with a motor and transmission mechanism, precisely controlling the motor's speed and torque to automatically clamp and open the ampoule.
[0004] However, the clamping force of existing mechanical clamping tools is difficult to control precisely. Insufficient clamping force may cause the bottle to be unstable, affecting the accuracy and efficiency of opening; while excessive clamping force may directly crush the bottle, resulting in waste of the medicine and potential safety risks. Power tools also generate greater impact force, especially for thin-walled ampoules. This impact force may cause the bottle to break or deform, thereby affecting the preservation quality of the medicine and the safety of its use. Utility Model Content
[0005] To address the problems of insufficient clamping force control precision and excessive impact on ampoules during clamping in existing ampoule clamping tools, this application provides a clinical ampoule clamping tool, comprising: a clamping mechanism, a drive device, a pressure detection module, a photoelectric sensing system, and a handle.
[0006] The clamping mechanism includes at least one pair of clamping components arranged opposite each other. The opposite side of the clamping components is the clamping surface. The clamping surface is provided with a plurality of clamping stations. An elastic buffer pad is provided inside the clamping station.
[0007] The driving device is fixed on one of the opposite sides of the clamping assembly and corresponds one-to-one with the clamping station. The driving device includes a telescopic motor and a sliding abutment. The sliding abutment passes through the clamping station of the clamping assembly, and the output end of the telescopic motor is fixedly connected to the sliding abutment.
[0008] The pressure detection module includes a pressure sensor, which is disposed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly away from the driving device. The pressure sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor and is configured to detect the clamping force and feed it back to the driving device.
[0009] The photoelectric sensing system includes a photoelectric sensor, which is disposed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly away from the driving device and near the entrance of the clamping station. The photoelectric sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor and is configured to trigger the driving device to start the clamping action.
[0010] The handle is fixed to the end of the clamping mechanism away from the clamping station, and the handle is provided with a control button, which is communicatively connected to the drive device.
[0011] In one feasible implementation, the elastic buffer pad is provided with a first group of holes and a second group of holes, the first group of holes being provided on the side of the elastic buffer pad having a thickness, and the second group of holes being provided on the side of the elastic buffer pad that contacts the ampoule.
[0012] The through holes in the first hole group are arranged radially and the hole diameter gradually increases from the edge to the center, while the through holes in the second hole group are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction.
[0013] In one feasible implementation, the diameter of the through holes in the first and second hole groups is 0.5-3 mm, and the distance between two adjacent through holes is 1.5-2 times the diameter of the through holes.
[0014] In one feasible implementation, the clamping mechanism further includes a guide post and a guide hole;
[0015] The guide post is fixedly mounted on the sliding abutment, and the guide hole is located on the side of the clamping assembly near the driving device.
[0016] The guide post has a wear-resistant coating on its surface, and the guide post is inserted into the guide hole to restrict the movement direction of the sliding abutment.
[0017] In one feasible implementation, the clamping assembly further includes an elastic element, which is a helical spring;
[0018] The elastic element is sleeved on the guide post and passes through the guide hole. One end of the elastic element contacts the sliding abutment and the other end contacts the clamping surface.
[0019] In one feasible implementation, the clamping mechanism further includes: a sliding protrusion and a sliding groove;
[0020] The sliding protrusion is provided on the side of the sliding abutment, and the sliding groove is formed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly;
[0021] The sliding abutment is slidably engaged with the sliding groove via the sliding protrusion;
[0022] The cross-section of the sliding groove is trapezoidal or dovetail-shaped, and the shape of the sliding protrusion matches the sliding groove.
[0023] In one feasible implementation, the clamping surface of the clamping assembly is an arc-shaped structure, the radius of curvature of the arc-shaped structure matches the outer diameter of the ampoule, and the elastic buffer pad covers at least 80% of the area of the clamping surface;
[0024] The elastic cushioning pad is made of silicone and has a thickness of 3-8mm.
[0025] In one feasible implementation, the pressure sensor is a piezoresistive sensor or a capacitive sensor;
[0026] The detection signal from the pressure sensor is used by a PID controller to control the clamping force of the drive device in a closed loop.
[0027] The pressure sensor is configured to detect whether the clamping force of the drive device reaches a preset threshold. When the clamping force is greater than or equal to the threshold, the sensor sends a detection signal to the drive device and controls the drive device to stop the clamping action.
[0028] In one feasible implementation, the photoelectric sensing system includes multiple independently controlled photoelectric sensor groups, each of which corresponds to a clamping station, and the clamping action of each clamping station is executed independently.
[0029] In one feasible implementation, the drive device is connected to an external controller via a wireless communication module, and the control button is connected to the controller of the drive device via a wired or wireless communication module.
[0030] The operation modes of the control button include: short press to trigger a start signal and long press to trigger an emergency stop signal, or switching the working state of the drive device by pressing it a certain number of times.
[0031] This application provides a clinical ampoule clamping tool that achieves safe and efficient clamping of ampoules through the coordinated operation of a clamping mechanism, a drive device, a pressure detection module, a photoelectric sensing system, and a handle. It solves the problems of uneven clamping force, low efficiency, and poor safety associated with traditional tools. The clamping mechanism features an arc-shaped clamping surface and an elastic buffer pad design, adaptable to the opening requirements of ampoules of different sizes and wall thicknesses. The drive device employs a telescopic motor and a sliding contact component, enabling precise control of the clamping force. The pressure detection module uses a pressure sensor design, achieving closed-loop control of the clamping force. The photoelectric sensing system uses multiple independently controlled photoelectric sensor groups, improving operational efficiency. The handle features control buttons, allowing for convenient control of the tool's start, stop, and operation status switching. The clinical ampoule clamping tool provided by this application offers advantages such as improved operational safety, efficiency, accuracy, and reliability, meeting the needs of frequent ampoule opening in clinical operations. Attached Figure Description
[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.
[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one side of a clinical ampoule clamping tool, as exemplarily shown in an embodiment of this application.
[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a clinical ampoule clamping tool with part of its elastic cushioning pad removed, as exemplarily shown in an embodiment of this application.
[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another side of the structure of the clinical ampoule clamping tool, as exemplarily shown in the embodiments of this application;
[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a clinical ampoule clamping tool without an elastic buffer pad and a sliding contact, as exemplarily shown in an embodiment of this application.
[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the driving device exemplarily shown in the embodiments of this application;
[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Enlarged view of a portion of point A in the middle;
[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 2Enlarged view of a portion of point B in the middle;
[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of point C in the middle.
[0041] Attached image captions:
[0042] 1-Clamping mechanism; 11-Clamping assembly; 12-Elastic buffer pad; 121-First hole group; 122-Second hole group; 13-Elastic element; 14-Guide post; 15-Guide hole; 16-Sliding protrusion; 17-Sliding groove; 2-Drive device; 21-Telescopic motor; 22-Sliding abutment; 3-Pressure detection module; 4-Photoelectric sensing system; 5-Handle; 51-Control button. Detailed Implementation
[0043] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to make the present invention more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a full understanding of the implementation of embodiments of the present invention.
[0044] Ampoules, as common sealed glass containers, are widely used to store liquid medications such as injectable drugs and vaccines. In clinical practice, healthcare professionals frequently need to open ampoules to extract medication. Traditional methods often rely on manually breaking the bottle neck, but this poses safety hazards such as flying glass shards and hand cuts. To improve operational safety and efficiency, various ampoule clamping tools have been developed. For example, some tools use mechanical clamping structures, securing ampoules through manual pressing or spring mechanisms, but the clamping force is difficult to control precisely, easily leading to bottle breakage or unstable clamping. Other electric clamping tools, while automatic, lack cushioning design, resulting in significant impact on the ampoule during clamping, especially with thin-walled ampoules.
[0045] In addition, existing tools generally have the following problems: First, insufficient clamping force control: relying on mechanical structures or simple sensors, they cannot dynamically adjust the clamping force according to the size and material of the ampoule, which can easily cause excessive compression or clamping failure; Second, cumbersome operation: requiring manual alignment or multiple adjustments, which is inefficient in emergency medical scenarios; Third, safety defects: lacking protection against glass shards, and some tools do not integrate an emergency stop function, making it difficult to quickly stop the operation in an emergency; Fourth, limited adaptability: unable to be compatible with ampoules of different sizes, requiring frequent clamp replacements, which increases the complexity of clinical operations.
[0046] To solve the above problems, refer to Figures 1-8 As shown, this embodiment provides a clinical ampoule clamping tool, which mainly includes a clamping mechanism 1, a driving device 2, a pressure detection module 3, a photoelectric sensing system 4, and a handle 5.
[0047] The clamping mechanism 1 is located at the front end of the tool and is used to directly clamp ampoules. The drive device 2 is located behind the clamping mechanism 1, fixed on one of the opposite sides of the clamping assembly 11, electrically connected to the clamping mechanism 1, and corresponds one-to-one with the clamping station, used to drive the clamping mechanism 1 to perform clamping actions. The pressure detection module 3 is integrated on the clamping surface of the clamping mechanism 1, used to detect the clamping force and feed it back to the drive device 2. The photoelectric sensing system 4 is located at the entrance of the clamping station, used to trigger the drive device 2 to start the clamping action. The handle 5 is fixed to the end of the clamping mechanism 1 away from the clamping station, making it easy for the operator to grip. The handle 5 is equipped with a control button 51, which is communicatively connected to the drive device 2 and used to control the working status of the drive device 2.
[0048] Specifically, the clamping mechanism 1 securely clamps the ampoule through its opposing clamping components 11. The opposing side of the clamping components 11 is the clamping surface, which has multiple clamping stations. An elastic buffer pad 12 is provided inside each clamping station to provide cushioning force and prevent damage to the ampoule during clamping. The driving device 2 provides power to the clamping mechanism 1, driving the sliding abutment 22 to move via a telescopic motor 21. The sliding abutment 22 passes through the clamping stations of the clamping components 11, causing the clamping components 11 to apply clamping force to the ampoule. The operating state of the driving device 2 is controlled by the control button 51.
[0049] The pressure detection module 3 includes a pressure sensor, which is set on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11 away from the drive device. The pressure sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor 21. The pressure detection module 3 monitors the clamping force in real time through the pressure sensor set on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11 and feeds the detection signal back to the drive device 2 to realize closed-loop control of the clamping force.
[0050] The photoelectric sensing system 4 includes a photoelectric sensor. The photoelectric sensor is set on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11 away from the driving device and close to the entrance of the clamping station. The photoelectric sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor 21. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the entry of the ampoule. When the ampoule blocks the photoelectric sensor, the driving device 2 is triggered to start the clamping action.
[0051] The handle 5 provides a gripping area for the operator, making it easy for the operator to operate the tool with one hand. The control button 51 on the handle 5 is used to control the working status of the drive device 2, realizing the start and stop of the clamping action.
[0052] When the operator places the ampoule at the entrance of the clamping station, the photoelectric sensor of the photoelectric sensing system 4 detects the entry of the ampoule and sends a trigger signal to the drive device 2. Upon receiving the trigger signal, the drive device 2 activates the telescopic motor 21, driving the sliding abutment 22 forward. The movement of the sliding abutment 22 causes the clamping assembly 11 to apply a clamping force to the ampoule, while the pressure sensor of the pressure detection module 3 monitors the magnitude of the clamping force in real time. When the clamping force reaches a preset threshold, the pressure sensor sends a feedback signal to the drive device 2, the drive device 2 stops working, and the clamping mechanism 1 maintains a stable clamping of the ampoule. The operator can control the working state of the drive device 2 via the control button 51 on the handle 5, thus starting and stopping the clamping action.
[0053] This embodiment of the application solves the safety hazards of glass shards flying and cutting hands caused by the traditional method of manually breaking ampoules by using a clamping component 11 and an elastic buffer pad 12 arranged opposite to each other. The design of the telescopic motor 21 and the sliding contact 22 solves the problem of difficult precise control of clamping force in traditional mechanical clamping tools. The drive device 2 can precisely control the magnitude of the clamping force. Furthermore, the application of the pressure detection module 3 feedback mechanism and the photoelectric sensing system 4 triggering mechanism solves the problem of traditional clamping tools requiring manual triggering of the clamping action by the operator. This improves operational efficiency and safety.
[0054] In some embodiments of this application, the elastic buffer pad 12 is disposed inside the clamping assembly 11 and is in direct contact with the ampoule. The elastic buffer pad 12 is provided with a first hole group 121 and a second hole group 122. The first hole group 121 is disposed on the side of the elastic buffer pad 12 with thickness, and the second hole group 122 is disposed on the side of the elastic buffer pad 12 that contacts the ampoule. The through holes of the first hole group 121 are arranged radially and the hole diameter gradually increases from the edge to the center, while the through holes of the second hole group 122 are uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction.
[0055] Understandably, the through holes of the first hole group 121 are arranged radially and the hole diameter gradually increases from the edge to the center. This design allows the elastic buffer pad 12 to undergo directional deformation when subjected to clamping force, increasing the contact friction with the ampoule and thus clamping the ampoule more securely.
[0056] Furthermore, the through holes of the second hole group 122 are evenly distributed along the circumference. This design allows the elastic buffer pad 12 to evenly distribute the clamping stress when subjected to clamping force, thus avoiding the ampoule breakage caused by stress concentration.
[0057] When the clamping mechanism 1 applies a clamping force to the ampoule, the elastic buffer pad 12 is compressed and deformed. Because the through holes in the first hole group 121 are arranged radially and their diameter gradually increases from the edge to the center, the elastic buffer pad 12 can undergo directional deformation during deformation, increasing the contact friction with the ampoule. Simultaneously, the through holes in the second hole group 122 are evenly distributed along the circumference, allowing the elastic buffer pad 12 to evenly distribute the clamping stress during deformation. This design enables the elastic buffer pad 12 to both securely clamp the ampoule and prevent breakage.
[0058] In this embodiment, the first hole group 121 increases the contact friction between the elastic buffer pad 12 and the ampoule, thereby clamping the ampoule more securely. The second hole group 122 evenly distributes the clamping stress, preventing ampoule breakage caused by stress concentration. This allows the elastic buffer pad 12 to adapt to the opening requirements of ampoules of different sizes and wall thicknesses.
[0059] In addition, the elastic cushioning pad 12 can be made of polyurethane, with its hardness adjusted to Shore 40A to enhance wear resistance; the first hole group 121 can be designed in a spiral arrangement, and the second hole group 122 can be changed to a radial distribution. Flexible protrusions can also be added to the elastic cushioning pad 12 to improve anti-slip performance; or 3D printing technology can be used to manufacture an elastic cushioning pad 12 with a gradient density, making its central area soft and its edge area hard, to further optimize stress distribution.
[0060] In some embodiments of this application, the diameter of the through holes in the first hole group 121 and the second hole group 122 is 0.5-3mm. By removing material locally, a flexible area is formed, which not only ensures effective clamping of the ampoule bottle, but also absorbs impact energy through micro-deformation, reducing the risk of breakage.
[0061] Specifically, when the through-hole diameter is small, such as 0.5mm, it ensures the stability of clamping the miniature ampoule and prevents small glass fragments from seeping in. When the through-hole diameter is large, such as 3mm, it balances the clamping force and structural strength of the large-sized ampoule and avoids excessive compression.
[0062] The through-hole spacing is set to 1.5-2 times the hole diameter, forming a "microbeam" structure through the inter-hole ligaments. This ensures uniform pressure distribution and reduces stress concentration. The optimized spacing design also improves dynamic stability, reducing the instantaneous deformation of the buffer pad during emergency braking and other conditions, thus maintaining clamping stability. A through-hole spacing of 1.5 times the hole diameter ensures the strength of the microporous structure and prevents ligament breakage. A through-hole spacing of 2 times the hole diameter provides deformation redundancy for larger holes, accommodating radial deviations of ampoules of different sizes.
[0063] In some embodiments of this application, the clamping assembly 11 further includes an elastic element 13, which is a helical spring. The elastic element 13 is sleeved on the guide post 14 and passes through the guide hole 15. One end of the elastic element 13 contacts the sliding abutment 22, and the other end contacts the clamping surface.
[0064] The design of the elastic element 13 allows the clamping assembly 11 to apply a certain pre-tightening force to the ampoule at the initial stage of clamping, thereby improving the stability and reliability of clamping. This solves the problem of traditional clamping assemblies lacking pre-tightening force at the initial stage of clamping.
[0065] In some embodiments of this application, the clamping mechanism 1 further includes a guide post 14 and a guide hole 15. The guide post 14 is fixedly disposed on the sliding abutment member 22, and the guide hole 15 is disposed on the side of the clamping assembly 11 near the driving device 2. The surface of the guide post 14 is provided with a wear-resistant coating, and the guide post 14 and the guide hole 15 are inserted into each other.
[0066] The guide post 14 is fixedly mounted on the clamping assembly 11 to limit the movement direction of the sliding abutment 22, ensuring that the clamping assembly 11 applies a clamping force to the ampoule in an accurate direction. The guide hole 15 is provided on the sliding abutment 22 and engages with the guide post 14 to limit the movement direction of the sliding abutment 22. When the driving device 2 drives the sliding abutment 22 to move, the sliding abutment 22 moves along the engagement direction of the guide post 14 and the guide hole 15, thereby driving the clamping assembly 11 to apply a clamping force to the ampoule, thus ensuring that the clamping assembly 11 applies a clamping force to the ampoule in an accurate direction.
[0067] Meanwhile, a wear-resistant coating is also provided on the surface of the guide post 14. The wear-resistant coating material can be tungsten carbide or polytetrafluoroethylene coating, which can reduce the coefficient of friction and improve the wear resistance between the guide post 14 and the guide hole 15.
[0068] In some embodiments of this application, the clamping mechanism 1 further includes a sliding protrusion 16 and a sliding groove 17. The sliding protrusion 16 is disposed on the side of the sliding abutment 22, and the sliding groove 17 is formed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11. The sliding abutment 22 slides in contact with the sliding groove 17 via the sliding protrusion 16. The cross-section of the sliding groove 17 is trapezoidal or dovetail-shaped, and the shape of the sliding protrusion 16 matches that of the sliding groove 17.
[0069] The sliding protrusion 16 slides into the sliding groove 17 to ensure the accurate movement direction of the sliding abutment 22. The cross-section of the sliding groove 17 is trapezoidal or dovetail-shaped, and the self-locking effect restricts the sliding abutment 22 to move only axially. This embodiment solves the problem of displacement that may occur during clamping in traditional sliding fit structures through the design of the self-locking effect.
[0070] In practical applications, the dovetail-shaped cross-section of the sliding groove 17 prevents reverse displacement through a self-locking effect, while the trapezoidal cross-section has a lower processing cost but a slightly weaker self-locking effect. The choice can be made based on actual needs.
[0071] In this embodiment, the sliding groove 17, combined with the guide post 14, can jointly restrict the movement path of the sliding contact 22. This maintains motion accuracy even under high-frequency operation, extending tool life. Furthermore, the guide post 14 can be coated with a ceramic material, resulting in higher hardness and high-temperature resistance. The sliding groove 17 can be fitted with a needle roller bearing to reduce contact surface friction, and a lubrication system can be added to automatically replenish grease periodically, further reducing wear.
[0072] In some embodiments of this application, the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11 has an arc-shaped structure, and the radius of curvature of the arc-shaped structure matches the outer diameter of the ampoule. An elastic buffer pad 12 covers at least 80% of the clamping surface, and the elastic buffer pad 12 is made of silicone with a thickness of 3-8 mm.
[0073] The elastic buffer pad 12 has a moderate thickness to balance deformation and structural strength. Specifically, the aperture of the first hole group 121 gradually increases from the edge to the center, resulting in progressive compression deformation during clamping; the uniformly distributed through holes of the second hole group 122 disperse circumferential stress. The radius of curvature of the arc-shaped structure of the clamping surface matches the outer diameter of the ampoule, and the elastic buffer pad 12 covers at least 80% of the clamping surface to increase the contact area.
[0074] Specifically, the elastic cushioning pad 12 increases contact friction through the synergistic effect of the hole deformation and the arc-shaped structure of the clamping surface. The arc-shaped structure further reduces the probability of bottle slippage, and the hole design significantly reduces local stress concentration. Furthermore, a gradient density cushioning pad, with a softer central area and a harder edge area, optimizes stress distribution; or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are used to improve chemical corrosion resistance. Alternatively, a microtextured structure can be added to the surface of the elastic cushioning pad 12 to further enhance the coefficient of friction.
[0075] In some embodiments of this application, the pressure detection module 3 includes a pressure sensor disposed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly 11. The pressure sensor is a piezoresistive sensor or a capacitive sensor. The pressure sensor is configured to detect the clamping force and feed it back to the drive device 2. The pressure sensor enables closed-loop control of the clamping force of the clamping tool.
[0076] The control process is as follows: When the clamping mechanism 1 applies a clamping force to the ampoule, the pressure sensor detects the magnitude of the clamping force in real time and feeds back the detection signal to the drive device 2. The drive device 2 adjusts the magnitude of the clamping force according to the feedback signal to achieve closed-loop control of the clamping force.
[0077] Specifically, when the clamping force reaches a preset threshold, a signal is transmitted to the PID controller, which dynamically adjusts the output of the telescopic motor 21. The piezoresistive sensor directly contacts the ampoule surface, while the capacitive sensor indirectly calculates the pressure through changes in the contact area. The pressure sensor and controller form a closed-loop feedback link, ensuring precise and controllable clamping force. Closed-loop control keeps the clamping force error within a reasonable range, preventing bottle breakage due to overpressure.
[0078] Understandably, a vibration sensor could be added to detect glass breakage signals and trigger an emergency stop function. Alternatively, multi-sensor fusion technology could be employed, combining the outputs of piezoresistive and capacitive sensors to improve reliability. Machine learning models could also be introduced to optimize the clamping force threshold setting based on historical data, adapting to bottles made of different materials. Furthermore, a flexible sensor array could be embedded in the clamping surface of the clamping component 11 to monitor the contact pressure distribution in real time and feed it back to the controller.
[0079] In some embodiments of this application, the photoelectric sensing system 4 includes multiple independently controlled photoelectric sensor groups, each corresponding to a clamping station. The clamping action at each clamping station is executed independently to detect the entry of the ampoule and trigger the drive device 2 to initiate the clamping action. The design of multiple independently controlled groups enables the clamping tool to handle the needs of multiple clamping stations simultaneously, improving operational efficiency.
[0080] When multiple ampoules are placed at the entrances of multiple clamping stations, each set of photoelectric sensors detects the entry of an ampoule at its corresponding clamping station entrance. When a photoelectric sensor detects the entry of an ampoule, it triggers the corresponding drive device 2 to initiate the clamping action. The clamping action at each clamping station is executed independently and does not affect each other.
[0081] In practical use, if an ampoule is inserted into a workstation and blocks the light path, the drive device 2 is triggered to start the clamping action. In the multi-workstation design, each group of photoelectric sensors independently controls one workstation (such as workstations A, B, and C), and the controller uses time-division multiplexing technology to avoid signal conflicts. The photoelectric sensors and drive device 2 are linked to achieve automated operation. Parallel processing at multiple workstations significantly increases the hourly processing capacity and reduces manual intervention.
[0082] Furthermore, the controller of drive unit 2 can allocate an independent thread to each workstation and dynamically allocate resources using a priority scheduling algorithm. For example, workstation A resets immediately after clamping, workstation B synchronously starts the next cycle, and workstation C detects the insertion of a new bottle. Multiple workstations coordinate tasks through the controller, avoiding operational conflicts. Assembly line operations improve processing efficiency and reduce the workload of medical staff.
[0083] Alternatively, a dynamic load balancing algorithm can be introduced to adjust resource allocation in real time based on the workload of each workstation; or edge computing devices can be used to reduce the controller load through local data processing. Furthermore, combining with robotic automation systems can automate the entire process of ampoule loading, clamping, liquid extraction, and waste bottle sorting.
[0084] Furthermore, ultrasonic sensors can be used to detect the bottle's position through sound wave reflection, or a visual recognition system can be deployed to locate the bottle's outline based on cameras and image processing algorithms. In addition, laser rangefinders can be added for non-contact detection of the bottle's insertion depth; or multiple devices can be networked via industrial Ethernet to support remote monitoring and centralized control.
[0085] In some embodiments of this application, a control button 51 is provided on the handle 5, and the control button 51 is communicatively connected to the drive device 2. The operation modes of the control button 51 include: short press to trigger a start signal and long press to trigger an emergency stop signal, or switching the working state of the drive device 2 by the number of consecutive presses.
[0086] The control button 51 has a built-in tactile feedback module, which generates a slight vibration when pressed briefly to indicate operation confirmation. The wireless communication module supports the Bluetooth protocol and can display the clamping force curve, battery status, and fault codes in real time after connecting to a mobile terminal. The control button 51 controls the start and stop of the drive device 2 via signal transmission, and the wireless module enables remote interaction. The emergency stop function has a response time of less than 0.5 seconds, significantly improving operational safety.
[0087] Specifically, to start the clamping tool, the operator can briefly press the control button 51 to trigger a start signal to the drive device 2, and the drive device 2 will begin working. To stop the clamping tool, the operator can press and hold the control button 51 to trigger an emergency stop signal to the drive device 2, and the drive device 2 will stop working. When the operator needs to switch the working state of the drive device 2 by pressing the control button 51 a certain number of times, the operator can switch the working state of the drive device 2 by pressing the control button 51 a corresponding number of times.
[0088] Furthermore, the control button 51 can integrate a voice control module, receiving voice commands through a noise-suppressed microphone; or a touchscreen can be embedded on the handle surface to display operating parameters in real time and support touch input. Simultaneously, a companion mobile app can be developed to provide operation record analysis, firmware upgrades, and multi-device collaborative management functions; or a cloud-based monitoring and alert system for device status can be implemented through an IoT platform.
[0089] As described in the above embodiments, the clinical ampoule clamping tool provided in this application achieves safe and efficient clamping of ampoules through the coordinated operation of the clamping mechanism, driving device, pressure detection module, photoelectric sensing system, and handle. It solves the problems of uneven clamping force, low efficiency, and poor safety associated with traditional tools. The modular design adapts to different ampoule sizes, the photoelectric sensing system and wireless control enhance operational convenience, and the wear-resistant structure and closed-loop algorithm ensure long-term stable operation. Clinical applications show that the tool significantly reduces breakage rates and improves operational efficiency, demonstrating broad applicability and practicality. The tool can be extended to scenarios such as laboratory ampoule opening, vaccine dispensing, and drug preparation.
[0090] Specifically, the clamping mechanism features an arc-shaped clamping surface and an elastic buffer pad design, adaptable to the opening requirements of ampoules of different sizes and wall thicknesses; the drive device employs a telescopic motor and a sliding contact component, enabling precise control of the clamping force; the pressure detection module utilizes a pressure sensor design, achieving closed-loop control of the clamping force; the photoelectric sensing system employs multiple independently controlled photoelectric sensor groups, improving operational efficiency; and the handle features control buttons, allowing for convenient control of the clamping tool's start, stop, and working status switching. The clinical ampoule clamping tool provided in this application offers advantages such as improved operational safety, efficiency, accuracy, and reliability, meeting the needs of frequent ampoule opening in clinical operations.
[0091] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the disclosure in the specification and the embodiments. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein.
Claims
1. A clinical ampoule holding tool characterized by comprising: include: Clamping mechanism (1), drive device (2), pressure detection module (3), photoelectric sensing system (4) and handle (5); The clamping mechanism (1) includes at least one pair of clamping components (11) arranged opposite to each other. The opposite side of the clamping components (11) is the clamping surface. The clamping surface is provided with multiple clamping stations. The inner side of the clamping station is provided with an elastic buffer pad (12). The driving device (2) is fixed on one of the opposite sides of the clamping assembly (11) and corresponds one-to-one with the clamping station. The driving device (2) includes a telescopic motor (21) and a sliding contact (22). The sliding contact (22) is inserted through the clamping station of the clamping assembly (11). The output end of the telescopic motor (21) is fixedly connected to the sliding contact (22). The pressure detection module (3) includes a pressure sensor, which is disposed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly (11) away from the drive device. The pressure sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor (21) and is configured to detect the clamping force and feed it back to the drive device (2). The photoelectric sensing system (4) includes a photoelectric sensor, which is disposed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly (11) away from the driving device and close to the clamping station entrance. The photoelectric sensor is electrically connected to the telescopic motor (21) and is configured to trigger the driving device (2) to start the clamping action. The handle (5) is fixed to one end of the clamping mechanism (1) away from the clamping station. The handle (5) is provided with a control button (51), which is communicatively connected to the drive device (2).
2. A clinical ampoule holder according to claim 1, characterized in that The elastic buffer pad (12) is provided with a first hole group (121) and a second hole group (122). The first hole group (121) is provided on the side of the elastic buffer pad (12) with thickness, and the second hole group (122) is provided on the side of the elastic buffer pad (12) that contacts the ampoule. The through holes of the first hole group (121) are arranged radially and the hole diameter gradually increases from the edge to the center, while the through holes of the second hole group (122) are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction.
3. A clinical ampoule holder according to claim 2, wherein The diameter of the through holes in the first hole group (121) and the second hole group (122) is 0.5-3mm, and the distance between two adjacent through holes is 1.5-2 times the diameter of the through hole.
4. The ampoule gripping tool according to claim 1, characterized by The clamping mechanism (1) also includes a guide post (14) and a guide hole (15); The guide post (14) is fixedly mounted on the sliding abutment (22), and the guide hole (15) is located on the side of the clamping assembly (11) near the driving device (2); The guide post (14) has a wear-resistant coating on its surface. The guide post (14) is inserted into the guide hole (15) to restrict the movement direction of the sliding contact (22).
5. A clinical ampoule holder according to claim 4, wherein The clamping assembly (11) further includes an elastic element (13), which is a helical spring; The elastic element (13) is sleeved on the guide post (14) and passes through the guide hole (15). One end of the elastic element (13) is in contact with the sliding abutment (22), and the other end is in contact with the clamping surface.
6. The ampoule holder according to claim 1, wherein The clamping mechanism (1) also includes: a sliding protrusion (16) and a sliding groove (17); The sliding protrusion (16) is provided on the side of the sliding abutment (22), and the sliding groove (17) is formed on the clamping surface of the clamping assembly (11). The sliding abutment (22) slides in contact with the sliding groove (17) via the sliding protrusion (16); The cross-section of the sliding groove (17) is trapezoidal or dovetail-shaped, and the shape of the sliding protrusion (16) matches that of the sliding groove (17).
7. The ampoule holder according to claim 1, wherein The clamping surface of the clamping assembly (11) is an arc-shaped structure, the radius of curvature of the arc-shaped structure matches the outer diameter of the ampoule, and the elastic buffer pad (12) covers at least 80% of the area of the clamping surface; The elastic cushioning pad (12) is made of silicone and has a thickness of 3-8mm.
8. The ampoule holder according to claim 1, wherein The pressure sensor is a piezoresistive sensor or a capacitive sensor; The detection signal from the pressure sensor controls the clamping force of the drive device (2) through a closed-loop PID controller. The pressure sensor is configured to detect whether the clamping force of the drive device (2) reaches a preset threshold. When the clamping force is greater than or equal to the threshold, the sensor will send a detection signal to the drive device (2) and control the drive device (2) to stop the clamping action.
9. The ampoule holder according to claim 1, wherein The photoelectric sensing system (4) includes multiple independently controlled photoelectric sensor groups, each of which corresponds to a clamping station, and the clamping action of each clamping station is executed independently.
10. The ampoule holder according to claim 1, wherein The drive device (2) is connected to an external controller via a wireless communication module, and the control button (51) is connected to the controller of the drive device (2) via a wired or wireless communication module. The operation modes of the control button (51) include: short press to trigger a start signal and long press to trigger an emergency stop signal, or switching the working state of the drive device (2) by the number of consecutive presses.