Automated Hub Cleaning Device for CVC Infection Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Central venous catheter (CVC) hubs are a primary mechanism for catheter-related bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), and existing manual cleaning methods are inconsistent, prone to human error, and inefficient, leading to discrepancies in infection reduction.
Innovation Solution
A device with a body, coupling, and cleaning cap that rotates and translates relative to the hub, using a cleaning solution of isopropyl alcohol, chlorhexidine gluconate, and hydrogen peroxide, and a charging station for automated cleaning and disinfection, ensuring standardized and efficient cleaning protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning methods are used for CVC hubs, then the cleaning process is simple to perform, but the cleaning consistency and reliability are poor due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The automated hub cleaning device performs cleaning operations autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The device automatically engages with the hub, executes the cleaning cycle with consistent mechanical motions, and maintains reliable operation through self-contained mechanisms including motors, actuators, and control systems that eliminate human variability in cleaning performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning actions with an automated mechanical system. The device uses motors to drive rotating brushes or wiping elements that mechanically clean the hub surfaces with consistent force and motion patterns, substituting human hand movements with controlled mechanical actuation for improved reliability
2Reliability
If automated cleaning devices with actuators are used, then cleaning consistency and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated cleaning device is designed with multi-functional capabilities that justify its complexity. The single device performs multiple functions including hub engagement, rotational cleaning, linear wiping motions, drying operations, and potential disinfection, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate tools or manual procedures into one integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structural arrangement where components are arranged concentrically or in layered configurations. The cleaning cap or wiping elements are positioned within the device body, and the hub is engaged within a coupling mechanism, creating a compact nested structure that reduces overall device footprint and complexity while maintaining functional integrity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If cleaning solutions with multiple active ingredients are used, then disinfection effectiveness is improved, but the risk of chemical interactions and safety issues increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning solution formulation uses specific parameter optimizations including controlled concentrations of each active ingredient (isopropyl alcohol, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide), pH adjustment, and viscosity modification to ensure effective disinfection while minimizing adverse chemical interactions. The parameters are tuned to achieve synergistic effects rather than antagonistic reactions
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning solution is applied as a disposable or single-use formulation where the chemical mixture is used once or for a limited number of applications then discarded. This approach eliminates the need for complex storage and handling procedures for prolonged periods, reducing the window of opportunity for chemical degradation or unwanted reactions while maintaining maximum effectiveness during the active cleaning phase
4Stability of the object's composition
If the hub is securely engaged in the coupling during cleaning, then cleaning stability is improved, but the hub cannot rotate or translate which may limit cleaning access
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device segments the cleaning functions into distinct operational phases: the hub is securely clamped in the coupling for stable positioning, while separate cleaning components (rotating brushes, wiping elements) perform different cleaning motions on different surfaces of the hub. This segmentation allows the hub to remain stationary while multiple cleaning actions are applied from different angles and positions
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces intermediary cleaning elements such as rotating brushes or flexible wiping cloths that mediate between the stationary hub and the cleaning force. These intermediaries can conform to the hub geometry and provide adaptive cleaning contact while the hub remains firmly positioned in the coupling, translating the stability constraint into an advantage for precise, controlled cleaning
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
The device consistently and efficiently cleans CVC hubs, reducing the risk of CLABSIs by standardizing the cleaning process, minimizing re-contamination, and expediting the drying time, thereby improving compliance and reducing infection incidence.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning solution of isopropyl alcohol, chlorhexidine gluconate, and hydrogen peroxide
Implementation Method 2
The cleaning cap contains at least one of a disinfecting substance and an antiseptic fluid
Implementation Method 3
an actuator disposed within the body for rotating and translating the cap relative to the hub
Implementation Method 4
The hub is snapped into the opening. When the hub is snapped into the opening, the hub does not rotate or translate relative to the coupling
Implementation Method 5
entering a hub drying mode whereby the automated hub cleaning device automatically disengages the cleaning cap from the hub and the hub remains engaged with the holder for a predetermined drying time
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for cleaning a central venous catheter port are disclosed. An apparatus includes a body, a coupling configured to connect the body to the hub, a cleaning cap coupled to the body, and an actuator disposed within the body for rotating and translating the cap relative to the hub. The cleaning cap includes a cap body defining a cavity and a cleaning member disposed within the cavity, the cleaning member having threads that engage with the threads on the hub.