Closeable Male Luer Connector with Automatic Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical connectors with male luers do not have automatic closing mechanisms, leading to potential unsanitary conditions due to fluid leakage and increased risk of bacterial contamination.
Innovation Solution
Development of closeable male luer connectors that automatically open when engaged with a female connector and automatically close when disengaged, or can be manually opened/closed to minimize fluid leakage and improve sterility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If male luer connectors are left open for easy access and rapid manipulation, then ease of operation is improved, but fluid leakage and bacterial contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The male luer connector automatically closes itself when not in use through a spring-loaded valve mechanism that returns to the closed position without external intervention, eliminating the need for manual capping while preventing contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static open/closed state to a dynamic automatic closing mechanism that responds to engagement and disengagement forces, allowing rapid manipulation while maintaining closure during storage
2Reliability
If male luer connectors are equipped with automatic closing mechanisms, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closing function is merged with the connector body itself, where the valve mechanism is integrated into the male luer structure rather than being a separate component, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A spring-loaded valve mechanism uses elastic potential energy storage to automatically close the connector, providing reliable fluid containment through a simple mechanical system rather than complex electronic or manual controls
3Object-affected harmful factors
If additional closure components are added to male connectors, then protection against contamination is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic closing mechanism eliminates the need for separate caps or closure components by making the connector self-sealing, allowing rapid manipulation without the additional steps of attaching or removing separate closure devices
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments relate to a luer connector comprising relatively movable components to facilitate fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, a male luer tip supported by the housing can be configured to rotate with respect to the housing. In some embodiments, at least one of the luer tip and the internal member can be axially moveable between a first closed position and a second open position relative to the other of the luer tip and the internal member. Further, the luer tip and the internal member can cooperate such that rotation of the luer tip in a first direction relative to the housing increases an axial displacement between the first open end of the luer tip and an end portion of the internal member.