Aseptic Coupling Locking Ring for Sterile Fluid Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aseptic coupling devices require complex dry-to-dry connections and additional clamping devices to maintain sterility during fluid transfer, which can be cumbersome and may compromise sterility if not handled properly.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a first and second aseptic coupling device with a locking ring and ring adapter that indexes and secures to form a seal, allowing for a pre-coupled state where membranes can be removed while maintaining a sterile connection, using a locking mechanism to prevent reverse rotation and ensure aseptic fluid passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dry-to-dry connection with external clamping devices is used, then sterility can be maintained during connection, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the clamping function directly into the coupling device body through the locking ring mechanism, eliminating the need for separate external clamping devices. The locking ring combines sealing, clamping, and locking functions in a single integrated component that rotates to sequentially perform these functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device performs its own clamping and locking functions through the self-contained locking ring mechanism, without requiring external assistance or additional devices. The locking ring automatically engages with the mating coupling device and maintains the sealed connection through its rotational locking action.
2Reliability
If multiple clamping devices are used to maintain sterility, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection process is divided into distinct sequential phases controlled by the rotational position of the locking ring: initial indexed position for membrane removal, intermediate position for sealing, and secured position for final locking. This segmentation allows each phase to be performed independently and clearly, improving operational ease while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring is designed to automatically position itself through indexed alignment before the final locking action, ensuring proper alignment and preliminary sealing before the operator completes the connection. This preliminary positioning reduces the skill and care required during the actual connection operation.
3Reliability
If dry connection is used to maintain sterility, then contamination risk is reduced, but the number of required components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing member, locking mechanism, and clamping function into a single integrated locking ring component. This eliminates the need for separate external clamps and additional sealing elements, reducing the total component count while maintaining the dry connection sterility barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a sealing element, a clamping device, and a locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining contamination prevention through the dry connection approach.
4Reliability
If locking mechanism is added to prevent reverse rotation, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-reverse rotation feature is integrated into the locking ring itself through the interaction between the locking feature on the locking ring and the corresponding feature on the main body. This eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms or additional components, maintaining reliability while minimizing complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Formation of a sterile connection includes inserting a first aseptic coupling device into a second aseptic coupling device while a locking ring of the first aseptic device is in an indexed initial position, rotating the locking ring to a secured position in which a compressive force is created and in which a first membrane from the first aseptic coupling device and a second membrane from the second aseptic coupling device can removed thereby resulting in a first a first sealing member of the first aseptic coupling device sealing with a second sealing member of the second aseptic coupling device to form a sterile fluid passageway.