Catheter Securement Device with Gear Rack Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical securement devices for catheters and other medical implements are often overly complex, bulky, or not compatible with various medical implements, necessitating a simpler and more versatile solution.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a base pad with adhesive, a securement member with a flexible gear rack and adjustable locking device, and deformable pads, designed to fit different catheter configurations through adjustable geometry and living hinges, allowing for secure attachment and adjustable fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing securement devices are used to ensure reliable catheter attachment, then the catheter is securely held in place, but the device becomes overly complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The securement device is divided into distinct functional segments: a base pad with adhesive for skin attachment, a securement member with gear rack for mechanical engagement, and a locking device with ratchet mechanism. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the overall device to achieve reliable catheter attachment while maintaining simplicity through functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement device is designed to accommodate various catheter types and configurations through a universal interface. The gear rack and ratchet mechanism can engage with different catheter shapes and sizes, while the adjustable locking device adapts to different securement requirements, making the device versatile without increasing complexity.
2Reliability
If existing securement devices are used to ensure reliable catheter attachment, then the catheter is securely held in place, but the device becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to nest within or alongside the securement member when not in use. The ratchet mechanism can be positioned within the gear rack structure, and the locking components can be retracted or folded into a compact configuration, minimizing the device's overall volume while maintaining securement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement device incorporates flexible and movable components that can change configuration. The gear rack can flex to accommodate different catheter positions, and the locking device can transition between extended (for locking) and retracted (for compact storage) states, allowing the device to be bulky only when necessary for function.
3Device complexity
If a simple securement device is used to reduce complexity, then the device is easier to manufacture and use, but it may not be compatible with various medical implements
Solution Approach 1:
The securement device employs a universal securement member design that can interface with different types of medical implements including catheters, tubes, and lines. The gear rack and ratchet mechanism provide a standardized engagement interface that adapts to various implement shapes and sizes, maintaining simplicity while achieving broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for adjustment of key parameters such as the position of the locking device along the gear rack, the tension applied to the catheter, and the configuration of the base pad. These parameter changes enable the same simple device structure to accommodate different medical implements and securement requirements without increasing complexity.
4Ease of operation
If an adjustable locking device with ratchet is used to provide secure and adjustable fit, then the fit can be customized for different catheters, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is designed to be self-locking, automatically securing the catheter in place once the desired position is reached. The gear rack and ratchet engage automatically without requiring additional locking steps or complex control mechanisms, providing ease of operation while minimizing the complexity of the locking system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex multi-step locking mechanism, the design inverts the approach by using a simple ratchet that locks in one direction and allows easy release in the other. This inverted approach provides secure adjustable fit while keeping the locking mechanism simple and intuitive to operate.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides a simpler, more flexible, and compact securement solution that is compatible with various medical implements, offering a secure and adjustable fit without being bulky, enhancing patient comfort and clinical usability.
Implementation Method 1
a base pad with at least a portion of the bottom surface having adhesive thereon for attaching the device to the body of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention pertains to a device for securing a medical implement to the body of a patient such as a catheter. The device preferably comprises a base pad with at least a portion of the bottom surface having adhesive thereon for attaching the device to the body of the patient. The device also has a securement member attached to the base pad. The securement member preferably has a rigid member base with a flexible gear rack extending from one side and an adjustable locking device extending from the other side. The locking device is adjustably lockable to the gear rack by a lock case with a ratchet and at least one open side. A center pad is mounted on the rigid member base and a lock pad is mounted adjacent to the locking device. The base pad can also further comprise a transparent window.