Aseptic Fluid Coupling With Irreversible End-Cap Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid coupling devices for sterile fluid systems lack effective solutions for aseptic disconnection that prevent fluid spillage and biological contamination during and after disconnection.
Innovation Solution
The development of single-use, aseptic disconnection fluid coupling devices that irreversibly block fluid paths upon disconnection, using a sequence of valve closures to minimize fluid spillage and prevent reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fluid coupling devices are disconnected, then fluid flow path is broken, but fluid spillage and biological contamination occur
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end cap is pre-configured with an irreversible blocking mechanism that activates upon disconnection. The ejection mechanism propels the distal end cap to irreversibly block the distal fluid flow path before fluid spillage can occur, preventing contamination in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The distal end cap serves as an intermediary component between the proximal and distal coupling portions. Upon disconnection, it is ejected to block the distal fluid flow path, acting as a mediator that prevents direct exposure between the fluid system and the external environment, thereby preventing contamination
2Ease of operation
If coupling portions are made disconnectable, then fluid path can be broken, but reconnection becomes possible causing contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed as a single-use disposable component. The irreversible blocking mechanism ensures that after disconnection, the coupling cannot be reconnected, eliminating the risk of contamination from reuse. The entire coupling assembly is discarded after one use, guaranteeing sterility
Solution Approach 2:
The irreversible blocking mechanism is pre-configured in the distal end cap. Upon disconnection, this mechanism automatically activates to block the fluid path permanently, preventing any future reconnection attempts and ensuring the coupling cannot be reused, thereby preventing contamination
3Reliability
If aseptic disconnection is implemented, then contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The irreversible blocking function is merged into the distal end cap component itself. The ejection mechanism and blocking feature are integrated into a single component that is propelled upon disconnection, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining the aseptic disconnection function
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device performs the blocking action automatically upon disconnection through the ejection mechanism. No external intervention or complex control system is needed - the act of disconnection itself triggers the ejection of the distal end cap to block the fluid path, making the system self-regulating
Data Source
AI summary
Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured for use in fluid systems for purposes of providing a single-use, aseptic disconnection functionality that substantially prevents fluid spillage when being disconnected. In some embodiments, the coupling portions cannot be functionally reconnected to each other after being disconnected from each other.