Collar Connector for Ophthalmic Handpiece Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for devices like ophthalmic handpieces require multiple connections that are often cumbersome and prone to improper alignment, leading to potential leaks or incorrect usage due to lack of secure and efficient coupling mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A convertible collar system that detachably aligns and secures multiple connectors, allowing them to couple with mating connectors in different configurations, featuring friction fits, snap fittings, and o-ring seals to ensure proper alignment and secure connections, preventing improper usage and leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate connectors are used for different lines (irrigation, aspiration, power), then each connector can be independently connected, but the alignment becomes cumbersome and prone to improper coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate connectors (irrigation, aspiration, power) into a single integrated collar assembly. The collar structurally unifies these connectors so they are positioned and oriented correctly relative to each other, eliminating the need for separate alignment operations while maintaining independent connectability of each line.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the console connectors and the handpiece connectors. It provides a unified interface structure that ensures proper spatial relationships and alignment, while still allowing individual connector engagement.
2Manufacturing precision
If connectors are fixed in a rigid configuration, then alignment is precise, but adaptability to different configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The collar incorporates movable or adjustable elements that allow the connectors to be positioned in different configurations. The collar can be detached and reattached in different orientations, or the connectors within the collar can be repositioned, enabling adaptation to various handpiece configurations while maintaining precise alignment during each connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar system is segmented into detachable components (collar and individual connectors) that can be independently positioned and reconfigured. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different configurations by rearranging the segments while ensuring precise alignment when connected.
3Reliability
If multiple separate connection operations are performed, then each connection can be secured individually, but the process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The collar merges multiple connection operations into a single integrated assembly that can be connected as one unit. This reduces the number of separate connection steps while maintaining individual security of each connector through the collar's unified coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are pre-positioned and pre-aligned within the collar assembly during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the collar is connected to the handpiece, all connectors are already in their correct positions and orientations, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment operations during actual connection.
4Reliability
If connectors are designed for secure coupling, then leaks are prevented, but disengagement for reconfiguration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements that allow for easy engagement and disengagement. The collar can be quickly attached and detached from the handpiece while maintaining secure, leak-proof connections during operation. The dynamic design allows the connector to transition between locked and unlocked states easily.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design includes self-latching or self-sealing features that automatically secure the connection when engaged, preventing leaks without requiring additional fastening steps. When disengagement is needed, the mechanism allows easy release through a simple action that automatically opens the secure coupling.
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
Facilitates efficient, secure, and leak-proof connections between various lines (irrigation, aspiration, power) and handpieces, ensuring correct alignment and easy disengagement for versatile configurations, thereby enhancing the reliability and usability of surgical console connections.
Implementation Method 1
A convertible collar system that detachably aligns and secures multiple connectors, allowing them to couple with mating connectors in different configurations, featuring a friction fit mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a connector system may include at least two connectors and a collar configured to detachably align the at least two connectors for coupling to a mating collar with at least two mating connectors. The collar may also be configured to at least partially disengage from the at least two connectors to allow movement of the connectors relative to each other. The relative movement may allow the connectors to couple to mating connectors that are in different configurations (than the mating collar configurations). In some embodiments, the connectors and/or mating connectors may include complementary male/female connectors. In some embodiments, the collar/mating collar may circumscribe their respective connectors and/or a perimeter of the other of the collar/mating collar. In some embodiments, the collar/mating collar may include interfacing features.