Catheter Valve System Segmentation and Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IV infusion devices lack an efficient and safe mechanism for controlling fluid flow and needle protection, leading to potential accidental needle sticks and inadequate fluid management during infusion therapies.
Innovation Solution
A catheter assembly with a valve system comprising a first and second valve piece connected by a valve stem, a septum with slits, and a valve retainer, which allows for controlled fluid flow and needle protection through a needle guard mechanism, enabling safe and efficient infusion procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a valve system with multiple valve pieces and retainers is added to control fluid flow, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is divided into multiple valve pieces (first valve piece, second valve piece) connected by a valve stem, with each piece performing specific functions. The valve retainer is segmented into multiple segments that can independently engage with the valve pieces, allowing for controlled fluid flow while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve retainer is positioned within the catheter hub interior cavity, nesting the valve assembly within the existing catheter structure. The valve stem passes through the catheter hub, and the valve pieces are arranged concentrically, creating a compact nested arrangement that integrates multiple components without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If a needle guard mechanism is implemented to protect the needle tip, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle guard is merged with the valve retainer assembly, where the valve retainer serves dual purposes: securing the valve system and providing protective coverage for the needle tip. This integration allows the needle protection function to be achieved without adding a completely separate complex guard mechanism, as the valve retainer's structural elements simultaneously perform retention and protection functions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the valve retainer is secured to the catheter hub interior cavity, then valve stability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve retainer is constructed with multiple segments that can be independently positioned and secured to the catheter hub interior cavity. This segmentation allows for modular assembly where each segment can be precisely positioned and secured separately, reducing the overall manufacturing precision requirements compared to a single monolithic retainer while maintaining stable valve positioning.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5B
Figure 5~6B
AI summary
Needle devices are described. The needle devices can have a catheter hub, a needle hub, and a valve system for controlling fluid flow through the catheter hub. The valve system can include a valve and a valve retainer. The valve can have flow holes for fluid flow therethrough or can have a valve piece for controlling flow through flow holes located externally of the valve. A needle guard is usable with the needle device to block a tip of the needle. A valve opener can also be used to open the valve.