Clam-shell IV Tube Fastener for Secure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for securing intravenous (IV) tubes to patients are inadequate, particularly for long-term therapy, as they often rely on tape or hook and loop tethers that can fail to prevent dislodgement, especially in mobile patients with thinner skin.
Innovation Solution
A clam-shell fastener designed to securely hold IV tubes in place without using tape, featuring a hingeable structure with engaging strips and channels that grip the IV tube, preventing movement and dislodgement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tape or hook and loop tethers are used to secure IV tubes, then the IV tube can be attached to the patient, but the IV tube may still become dislodged, especially in mobile patients with thinner skin
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate components: a fastener device that attaches to the IV tube and a wearable component that contacts the patient's skin. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the fastener provides secure tube retention while the wearable component distributes pressure to protect thin skin
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable component acts as an intermediary between the fastener and the patient's skin. It provides a comfortable interface that distributes the fastening force over a larger area, preventing direct pressure points that could damage thin or fragile skin while still maintaining secure attachment
2Reliability
If tape is applied to secure IV tubing, then the tubing can be held in place, but skin irritation and tears occur in patients with thinner skin
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the adhesive mechanical system (tape) with a mechanical fastening system consisting of a fastener device and wearable component. This eliminates direct adhesive contact with the skin, removing the source of skin irritation while maintaining tubing security through mechanical engagement
3Ease of manufacture
If removable hook and loop tethers are used, then the IV tube can be secured without tape, but the tethers fail to restrict tubing movement between catheter and fastener location
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener device incorporates a hinged structure with movable arms that can dynamically adjust to accommodate tubing movement. The hinged connection allows the fastener to adapt to slight variations in tube position while maintaining secure attachment, preventing the tube from shifting between the catheter and fastener location
4Reliability
If a secure fastening system is designed, then IV tube dislodgement is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a fastener device for tube attachment, a wearable component for skin contact, and a hinge mechanism for movement accommodation. This modular segmentation allows each component to be simple in design while the combination provides secure retention, reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a fastener to secure an intravenous tube to a patient.