Multi-Lumen Catheter Detachable Hub Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-lumen catheters with bonded hubs are impractical for post-implantation tunneling and require complete removal for proximal portion replacement, causing patient trauma and medical complications.
Innovation Solution
A detachable hub system with a pivoting locking mechanism allows for the separation of the catheter's proximal and distal portions, enabling alternative installation procedures and in-situ replacement of faulty components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a multi-lumen catheter with bonded hub is used, then the catheter structure is simple and reliable, but tunneling after implantation becomes impractical and component replacement requires complete catheter removal
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter hub is divided into two separable portions: a distal portion that remains implanted with the catheter lumens, and a proximal portion that can be removed and replaced externally. The locking mechanism allows these portions to be securely connected yet separable, enabling post-implantation tunneling and component replacement without removing the entire catheter system.
2Ease of repair
If the catheter hub is made as a single bonded unit, then manufacturing is simple, but maintenance and repair require complete catheter removal causing patient trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is segmented into replaceable portions with a locking mechanism that enables easy assembly and disassembly. The distal portion with catheter lumens remains in place while the proximal portion can be independently replaced, simplifying maintenance and repair without requiring complete catheter removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the proximal hub portion to be discarded when faulty and replaced with a new portion, while the distal implanted portion is recovered and retained in place. This reduces patient trauma and medical complications associated with complete catheter removal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a detachable locking mechanism is added to the hub, then post-implantation tunneling and component replacement become possible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates a movable locking member that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic element allows the hub portions to be securely connected during operation yet easily separable when maintenance is needed, providing installation flexibility without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the distal and proximal hub portions, providing a controlled interface that enables both secure connection and intentional separation. This mediator allows the system to achieve adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through a dedicated coupling mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-lumen catheter assembly with a two-piece hub is disclosed. The catheter includes a distal portion having a plurality of catheter lumens, wherein each of the plurality of catheter lumens includes a distal tip and a proximal lumen portion. The distal portion further includes a distal hub portion slidably disposed over the proximal lumen portion, wherein the distal hub portion includes a pivoting locking member. The catheter assembly further includes a proximal portion having a plurality of catheter extensions, wherein each of the plurality of catheter extensions fluidly communicates with at least one of the plurality of catheter lumens. The proximal portion also includes a proximal hub portion having a locking receiver, wherein the pivoting locking member is releasably engaged with the locking receiver.