Catheter Fixation Device with Angled Abutment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing catheter fixation devices are bulky, difficult to secure, and often require complex procedures, failing to adequately prevent micro-pistoning and requiring multiple devices for different catheter sizes, which can lead to increased infection risks and reduced patient mobility.

Innovation Solution

A compact medical device with a deformable body member and retaining strap that securely fixes catheters with luer-lock portions, featuring a fluid-filled chamber and angled abutment to inhibit movement, allowing for easy one-handed operation and adaptation to various catheter sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing catheter fixation devices are used, then catheter fixation is achieved, but the devices are bulky and difficult to secure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatheter fixationVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation device is divided into separate functional components: a body member for attachment to the living creature, a retaining strap for securing the catheter, and a channel portion for receiving the luer-lock. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and reduces overall bulk while maintaining fixation reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The channel portion is designed to receive and enclose the luer-lock portion of the catheter, creating a nested structure where the catheter fits within the channel. This nesting approach secures the catheter without requiring additional external support structures, reducing device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If existing catheter fixation devices are used, then catheter fixation is achieved, but complex procedures are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatheter fixationVSAvoidapplication procedure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining strap is designed to be self-securing through a simple over-and-under mechanism with the channel portion. The strap naturally locks into place when the catheter is inserted, eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation or multiple steps. The design allows single-handed operation and simplifies the overall application procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If existing catheter fixation devices are used, then catheter fixation is achieved, but micro-pistoning is not adequately prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatheter fixationVSAvoidmicro-pistoning
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The channel portion is designed with specific geometric features including an angled surface and opening that locally contact the luer-lock portion of the catheter. This localized contact area provides precise engagement that prevents micro-pistoning while maintaining overall device simplicity. The angled surface creates a mechanical stop that actively resists longitudinal movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Reliability

If multiple devices for different catheter sizes are used, then proper fixation for each size is achieved, but device variety increases complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatheter fixationVSAvoidcatheter size compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation device is designed with universal dimensions and geometric features that allow it to accommodate multiple catheter sizes and types. The channel portion can receive various luer-lock configurations, and the retaining strap can secure different catheter diameters. This single multi-functional device replaces the need for multiple size-specific devices, simplifying the system while maintaining fixation reliability across different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20230310809A1Catheter fixation device
Publication Date: 2023.10.05 BEDAL NV
  • US20230310809A1 patent drawing
  • US20230310809A1 patent drawing
  • US20230310809A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to means for fixating different sizes of catheters comprising a luer-lock, which are used in healthcare and in particular to means for fixating such catheters to a living creature.