Set Connector Assembly with Locking Tab for Fluid Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid infusion devices for ambulatory or portable use face issues with the set connector assembly inadvertently moving during user movement, disrupting the fluid flow path and requiring additional locking mechanisms to prevent accidental removal of the fluid reservoir.
Innovation Solution
A set connector assembly with a graspable portion and a coupling portion, featuring at least one locking tab that engages a lock within the fluid infusion device, allowing the connector to move between a locked and unlocked position, ensuring secure attachment and easy removal of the fluid reservoir.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the set connector assembly is made removable for easy fluid reservoir replacement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connector may inadvertently move or disconnect during user movement, worsening the reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a movable graspable portion that transitions between locked and unlocked positions. The locking tabs can engage with the housing to secure the connector, or disengage to allow removal. This dynamic design enables the connector to adapt between stable attachment during use and easy removal when needed, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The connector's attachment state is changed by moving the graspable portion between different positions. When the graspable portion is in the locked position, the locking tabs engage with the housing, providing stable attachment. When moved to the unlocked position, the tabs disengage, allowing removal. This parameter change (position of graspable portion) enables controlled transition between stable and removable states
2Reliability
If additional locking guards are added to prevent inadvertent movement, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and grasping functions are merged into a single integrated structure. The graspable portion itself forms the locking tabs, eliminating the need for separate locking guards or mechanisms. When the graspable portion is held in the locked position, it simultaneously provides both the grasping interface and the locking engagement with the housing, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The graspable portion serves multiple functions: it provides the user interface for manipulation, forms the locking tabs for secure attachment, and indicates the locked/unlocked state. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated locking components, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring reliable connection
Data Source
AI summary
A set connector assembly for a fluid infusion device is provided. The set connector assembly includes a connector having a body. The body defines a graspable portion and a coupling portion, and the coupling portion is to be received within a portion of the fluid infusion device. The graspable portion has at least one wing that defines at least one locking tab for locking the connector to the fluid infusion device. The graspable portion is movable relative to the body to move the connector between a first, locked position and a second, unlocked position relative to the fluid infusion device.