Aseptic Tube Coupling with Deformable Seal for Leak-Free Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aseptic coupling devices for sterile tubes are expensive due to numerous components and require costly reconditioning, with issues of fluid leakage during disconnection, making them economically unviable for single-use applications.
Innovation Solution
An aseptic coupling device with a deformable annular sealing element and locking mechanism that compresses to prevent fluid flow, featuring a tubular insert with a cantilevered rod and annular body for secure sealing, and pre-coupling/coupling means with serrations for engaging other devices, reducing component count and preventing trapped fluid leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used to ensure aseptic sealing and connection, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing element and the rod into a single integrated component where the rod is fixed to the sealing element. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the sealing function, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, maintains the sealing element in its initial position, and acts as a shut-off mechanism when compressed. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, resolving the contradiction between reliable sealing and device simplicity.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a deformable sealing element is used to prevent fluid leakage during disconnection, then fluid containment is improved, but the sealing mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed to be deformable, changing its shape from an initial state with a flow section larger than the rod cross-section to a compressed state where it tightly surrounds the rod. This dynamic adaptation allows the seal to prevent fluid leakage without requiring a complex mechanical shut-off mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the sealing element by compressing it axially, which alters its dimensions and sealing properties. When compressed, the sealing element's cross-section decreases to tightly surround the rod, preventing fluid leakage. This parameter change provides a simple yet effective solution to fluid containment.
3Productivity
If reusable coupling devices are designed for multiple uses, then cost-effectiveness improves, but reconditioning costs and risk of damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes coupling devices designed for single use only, eliminating the need for expensive reconditioning processes and avoiding the risk of damage accumulation. The simple structure with fewer components makes the disposable version cost-effective compared to reusable alternatives that require maintenance and sterilization.
4Object-generated harmful factors
If valves are added to coupling devices to prevent fluid flow during disconnection, then fluid containment is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the valve function from a separate component and integrates it into the rod-sealing element assembly. The rod itself acts as the shut-off mechanism by being compressed into the sealing element to block fluid flow, eliminating the need for a separate valve component.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a cost-effective, leak-proof aseptic connection and disconnection mechanism, minimizing component count and preventing fluid leakage, thus addressing the economic and reconditioning challenges of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing element is deformable between a first state in which the sealing element defines a flow section greater than the cross section of the rod and a second state in which the sealing element tightly surrounds the rod, the sealing element being arranged to be taken from its first state to its second state under the effect of axial compression.
Data Source
AI summary
An aseptic coupling device for a tube, the device comprising:a tubular insert defining a channel and having an end segment provided with means for connecting it to the tube, the tubular insert being provided with a cantilevered rod extending axially inside the channel; andan annular body having an end segment mounted on the insert and co-operating therewith to define a housing for receiving an annular sealing element that is deformable from a first state in which it defines a flow section greater than the cross section of the rod and a second state in which it tightly surrounds the rod, and that is arranged to be taken from its first state to its second state under the effect of axial compression exerted by the insert.A coupling assembly for coupling two tubes together.