Cannula Connector Locking Mechanism for IV Septum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for fluid transfer in medical settings, such as IV systems, pose risks of accidental pricks and leakage due to the use of sharp needles and blunt instruments, respectively, and lack secure and reusable fluid paths.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising a cannula connector and a septum connector that provides a locking mechanism for secure fluid transfer, allowing for safe and efficient fluid path establishment and disengagement, with features like taper lock engagement, protrusions, and apertures for locking, ensuring secure and leak-proof connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sharp needles are used to pierce rubber septum for medication administration, then fluid transfer efficiency is improved, but risk of accidental pricks and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable sterile connectors that are discarded after single use, eliminating the need to sterilize reusable components and ensuring each connection starts from a sterile state, thus preventing contamination while maintaining efficient fluid transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The rubber septum acts as an intermediary element between the needle and the fluid system. The needle pierces the septum rather than directly contacting the fluid path, creating a barrier that prevents contamination while allowing efficient fluid transfer through the pierced opening
2Object-affected harmful factors
If blunt instruments are used to insert medication into IV system, then safety against accidental pricks is improved, but leakage problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula connector features a tapered cylindrical shape with curved surfaces that guide the blunt instrument through the septum. The curved geometry distributes force evenly, preventing leakage while maintaining safety by avoiding sharp edges that could cause accidental pricks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connector by using a tapered design with specific angle ranges (30-60 degrees). This geometric parameter optimization allows blunt instruments to penetrate the septum effectively without causing leakage, while maintaining safety
3Reliability
If connectors are designed for secure locking connection, then reliability of fluid path is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a cannula connector portion for insertion, a locking portion with protrusions and apertures for secure connection, and a septum connector portion for sealing. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently without unnecessary complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses nested features where protrusions on one component fit into corresponding apertures on another component. This nesting approach creates a secure locked configuration through simple geometric interlocking, achieving high reliability without complex mechanisms
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2E
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A cannula connector adapted for a resealable septum component and assemblies comprising a combination of connectors are provided. The connectors are reversibly engageable and lockable to provide a fluid path between the components. Assemblies comprising the connector and various septum components are provided.