Catheter Coupling Guiding Edge and Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for medical tubular arrangements, such as catheters, are difficult for non-professionals and individuals with impaired dexterity to engage and disengage due to the need for precision, and they lack clear feedback on proper securing.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a guiding edge on one connector part and a locking element on the other, allowing for easier engagement and disengagement by reducing the need for precision, featuring a guiding edge that surrounds the female connecting portions and a locking mechanism with a snap lock arrangement for clear feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional coupling devices are used, then secure connection is achieved, but engagement difficulty increases for non-professionals and disabled persons
Solution Approach 1:
A guiding edge structure acts as an intermediary element between the male and female connector parts. The guiding edge protrudes from the connector surface and physically guides the male connector into proper alignment with the female connector during engagement, reducing the precision requirement for users while ensuring secure connection.
2Reliability
If traditional coupling devices are used, then connection security is maintained, but user feedback on proper engagement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates a feedback mechanism where the guiding edge structure provides tactile and visual confirmation to the user when proper engagement has occurred. The geometric relationship between the guiding edge, male connector, and female connector creates a detectable state that informs the user the connection is secure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connecting portions are provided for multi-lumen catheters, then functional versatility is improved, but engagement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding edge structure merges the alignment and engagement functions into a single integrated feature. Instead of providing separate alignment mechanisms for each connecting portion, the guiding edge collectively guides all male connectors into their corresponding female connectors simultaneously, reducing the perceived complexity for the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for a tubular arrangement for medical use including a first connector part and a second connector part and, an engagement/disengagement member for at least assisting in engaging and disengaging the engagement between said connector parts, wherein the first connector part includes at least two female connecting portions arranged in a first connector surface and a guiding edge protruding from the first connector surface arranged around the at least two female connecting portions and the second connector part includes at least two male connecting portions arranged in a second connector surface, and wherein at least one of the first connector part and the second connector part includes a locking element arranged to rotatably engage with the engagement/disengagement member.