Check Valve Pin Latch for Medical Fluid Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing check valve arrangements for medical fluids lack a reliable mechanism to transition from a bidirectional flow state to a unidirectional flow state without external activation, risking premature activation and contamination during sterilization and handling.
Innovation Solution
A check valve arrangement with a pin-to-socket connection that allows bidirectional flow in an initial state and unidirectional flow in an operating state, utilizing a pin-pin socket connection that can be activated by force or path impression, and features a latching mechanism to maintain the operating state even after activation force is removed, ensuring non-return functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a check valve arrangement allows bidirectional flow in initial state for sterilization, then sterilization safety is improved, but risk of premature activation and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve arrangement is designed with a latching mechanism that requires a specific activation action (pushing the pin or pressing the activation element) to transition from the initial bidirectional state to the operating unidirectional state. This preliminary activation action ensures the valve remains in a safe, non-activated state during sterilization and handling, preventing premature activation and contamination while allowing bidirectional flow when needed.
2Reliability
If additional components like closure sleeves and hose clamps are used to prevent liquid escape, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates the sealing function directly into the check valve arrangement by incorporating a latching mechanism with an activation element (pin or button) that controls both the flow direction and the sealing action. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate closure sleeves and hose clamps, reducing device complexity while maintaining sealing reliability through the integrated latch that prevents liquid escape when activated.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a check valve arrangement (100) with a feed (205) and a drain for medical fluids, with a valve body (101), wherein the check valve arrangement (100) in an initial state permits a throughflow of working fluid and/or a sterilising fluid through the check valve arrangement (100) in both throughflow directions, from the feed (205) to the drain, and vice versa, and wherein the check valve arrangement (100) in an operating state only permits the throughflow direction of the working fluid. The check valve arrangement (100) comprises a pin and pin retainer connection, said pin and pin retainer connection being designed in such a way that the check valve arrangement (100) can be converted from the initial state to the operating state by applying force to the pin and pin retainer connection and/or by an impression of a path on the pin and pin retainer arrangement.