Catheter Connector Hard Ring Reduces Frictional Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connection mechanism between the catheter and the MDU part in optical imaging apparatuses for diagnosis faces issues with rotational suppression forces, leading to potential breakage of components and reduced long-term usability.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a catheter connector structure that includes a hard ring member interposed between the elastic body and the knob, which disperses contact forces and reduces frictional torque, allowing for smoother rotation and alleviating burdens on both the catheter and the MDU part.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the existing connection mechanism between catheter and MDU part is used, then the connection can be established, but the rotational suppression forces cause component breakage and reduce long-term usability
Solution Approach 1:
A rotation suppressing member is introduced as an intermediary component between the catheter connector and MDU connector. This member mediates the rotational force during connection, preventing direct transmission of excessive torque to the guide walls and projection portions, thereby avoiding breakage while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation suppressing member provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing and limiting rotational forces before they can cause damage. During the connection process, this member prevents excessive rotation from occurring in the first place, protecting the guide walls and projection portions from breakage
2Ease of operation
If the catheter connector is pressed into the MDU connector during connection, then mechanical integration is achieved, but frictional torque increases and suppresses rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation suppressing member acts as a mediator that manages the frictional torque generated during connection. It allows controlled rotation while preventing excessive frictional forces from suppressing rotation entirely, ensuring smooth connection operation
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation suppressing member changes the friction parameter by providing a controlled friction interface. This allows sufficient friction to maintain connection stability while preventing excessive friction that would suppress necessary rotation during the connection process
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a technique for alleviating not only a burden on a catheter but also a burden on an MDU part and for yet enabling the long-term use of the MDU part. For this purpose, a connector for connecting the catheter to the MDU part has therein a rotatable knob which exposes and holds an end surface of an optical fiber, an elastic body which exhibits a buffering function when this knob retreats due to an operation for connecting the catheter to the MDU part, and a member which is interposed between the knob and the elastic body, which is attached to the knob when the knob retreats, and which has a coefficient of friction equal to or lower than a predetermined value.