Axially Displaceable Infusion Set Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion sets are uncomfortable and difficult for patients to connect and disconnect from medical devices, especially when needing to switch between different devices, and require complex manufacturing processes for insertion devices.
Innovation Solution
An infusion set with a simplified coupling mechanism featuring axially displaceable connectors, adhesive supports, and flexible retention devices that allow easy disconnection and reconnection with minimal discomfort, along with a pre-loaded injector device for easier skin penetration, using materials like polypropylene and thermoplastic elastomers for the cannula and connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connector uses a complex locking mechanism with multiple arms and retention devices, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent sets of guiding means (first set in the base part, second set in the connector) that work together to guide alignment during connection while allowing simple axial displacement for both connection and disconnection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-arm locking mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simplified axial displacement system where the connector simply moves along the cannula axis, with the guiding means ensuring proper alignment without requiring complex retention device manipulations
2Adaptability or versatility
If the infusion set is designed to be disconnected and reconnected multiple times, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with universal axial displacement capability that allows it to be connected to and disconnected from different medical devices (insulin pumps, syringes, etc.) using the same simple motion, making the system multi-functional without increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including flexible retention devices that can deform elastically during connection and disconnection, allowing the system to adapt to different devices while maintaining a simple overall structure
3Ease of operation
If the cannula and connector use flexible materials like thermoplastic elastomers, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision becomes more difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The material parameters of the cannula and connector are changed to use thermoplastic elastomers and polypropylene, which provide the required flexibility for easy operation while allowing for tolerance compensation in the manufacturing process through material elasticity
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 infusion set reduces patient discomfort during connection and disconnection, allows for easier operation, and is easier to manufacture, making it suitable for self-use and reducing material stress, while the injector device facilitates controlled and vertical skin penetration.
Implementation Method 1
said infusion part comprising an adhesive support
Implementation Method 2
the resilient band is releasable from the cannula housing when pressing the sidewalls toward each other to deform the resilient band
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an infusion set for an intermittent or continuous administration of a therapeutical substance, such as insulin. The infusion set comprises an infusion part (OB) for insertion into a patient and a connector (OA) for connecting the infusion part with a medical device through a tube (7), the connector being axially displaceable relative to the infusion part. The infusion part comprises an adhesive support (1), a base part (2) with a first set of guiding means (13) and at least two retention devices (4) for locking the connector to the infusion part, a cannula extending from said base part and being in fluid communication with a cavity which is optionally covered with a membrane, the cavity is further adapted to receive a second cannula extending from the connector, which second cannula is in fluid communication with the tube.