Ultrasonic Probe Connector Cover Rotating Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
The frequent use of low-temperature plasma sterilizers for ultrasonic medical devices can lead to corrosion and damage of the printed circuit board and connectors, shortening the lifespan of the ultrasonic probe.
Innovation Solution
A connector cover assembly with a coupling device that includes a rotating shaft and fastening portion, designed to securely couple with the ultrasonic probe connector, using a packing member to seal and protect the connection from corrosive hydrogen peroxide vapor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ultrasonic probe is frequently sterilized using low-temperature plasma sterilizer, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but the connector and printed circuit board suffer corrosion and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: the connector body, the protective cover, and the coupling device. This segmentation allows the cover to be detached and removed during sterilization, protecting the connector and PCB from hydrogen peroxide exposure while maintaining sterilization effectiveness of the probe itself
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cover acts as an intermediary barrier between the connector/PCB and the hydrogen peroxide sterilizing agent. By introducing this intermediate protective element, the harmful chemical exposure is blocked while allowing the sterilization process to proceed on the intended target
2Reliability
If the connector is exposed to hydrogen peroxide vapor during sterilization, then sterilization is achieved, but the life of the ultrasonic probe is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is pre-installed on the connector before sterilization begins. This preliminary protective action ensures that when hydrogen peroxide vapor is introduced, the connector and PCB are already shielded, preventing corrosion that would otherwise occur during the sterilization cycle and extending probe lifespan
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple cover is used for the connector, then ease of manufacture is improved, but coupling security and protection reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates a rotating shaft mechanism that transitions from an open to a locked position. This dynamic coupling mechanism provides secure attachment during use while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple rotational movement and basic mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism replaces complex fastening systems with a simpler rotational locking mechanism. The rotating shaft engages with corresponding features to secure the cover, providing reliable coupling through basic mechanical principles rather than complex multi-component fastening systems
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a connector cover configured to be used in an ultrasonic probe connector and an ultrasonic probe assembly. The connector cover includes a case, and a coupling device disposed at one end portion in the case and configured to be coupled to the connector. The coupling device includes a body including a fastening portion configured to be coupled to a connector protrusion provided to protrude from the connector toward a first direction, and a rotating shaft connected to the case and the body, and the connector cover is configured to be coupled to the connector along a second direction.