Breakable Plunger Rod for Arterial Blood Gas Syringe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Arterial blood collection syringes require two-handed operation, exposing collected blood to atmospheric air, which affects analysis accuracy, and pose challenges in handling and transportation due to the protruding plunger rod.
Innovation Solution
A fluid collection assembly with a breakable plunger rod connector that allows single-handed operation, minimizing blood exposure to air through a low resistance stopper and annular flange configuration, and facilitates easier handling and transportation by disconnecting the plunger rod after sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional two-piece plunger rod assembly is used, then the syringe can collect blood samples, but it requires two-handed operation and exposes blood to atmospheric air
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger rod is divided into two separable portions: a first portion that remains in the syringe barrel and a second portion that is removed after use. This segmentation allows the syringe to be operated with one hand while the removed portion prevents blood exposure to air during transport and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The second portion of the plunger rod is extracted from the syringe barrel after the blood sample is collected. This extraction eliminates the harmful effect of blood exposure to atmospheric air while maintaining the functionality of the syringe for its primary purpose.
2Ease of operation
If a protruding plunger rod is used, then the syringe can function properly, but it creates handling and transportation difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger rod is segmented into removable portions, allowing the protruding element to be removed after use. This eliminates the handling and transportation difficulties associated with protruding plunger rods while maintaining the syringe's functional complexity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger rod configuration transitions from a static, permanently protruding structure to a dynamic system where the plunger rod portions can be assembled and disassembled. This dynamic configuration allows the syringe to adapt its structure based on operational needs versus transportation needs.
3Ease of operation
If the plunger rod is made breakable, then it can be removed after use, but it may break during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger rod is designed with non-uniform structural properties: the first portion is made robust and continuous for reliable operation, while the second portion is designed with breakable characteristics for easy removal. This local differentiation of quality allows the plunger rod to meet both reliability and ease of operation requirements simultaneously.
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
Enables accurate single-handed arterial blood collection, reduces exposure of blood to atmospheric air, and simplifies handling and transportation by allowing the plunger rod to be removed, improving operational efficiency and sample integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a breakable connector joining the proximal portion and the distal portion of the plunger rod. The connector is adapted to break upon application of a breaking force to the plunger rod.
Implementation Method 2
An annular flange is provided that extends from the internal surface into the chamber which is configured to limit proximal movement of the stopper.
Implementation Method 3
The internal surface of the barrel is configured for slidably receiving the stopper in fluid tight engagement therewith.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A fluid collection assembly and method for use thereof is provided including a barrel with a plunger rod slidably inserted is disclosed. The assembly and method are particularly useful in the collection of arterial blood. The plunger rod includes a proximal portion, a distal portion with a stopper, and a breakable connector between the proximal and distal portions. In use, the assembly is primed with a liquid anticoagulant, the breakable connection is broken, and a fluid sample is collected with the arterial pressure causing the distal portion of the plunger rod to travel in a proximal direction along the barrel and contact an annular flange extending within the barrel. After collection, a tip cap can be applied to the assembly to prevent any spillage of the fluid sample during handling, storage, and transportation.