Deformable Locking Element for Luer Lock Syringe Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Luer Lock connector in prefilled syringes is prone to loosening during transport and storage, especially at reduced temperatures, leading to potential leakage and contamination due to insufficient sealing between the needle hub and syringe barrel, particularly in automatic injection devices where pressure is maintained for a long duration.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with a deformable locking element is integrated into the Luer Lock connector system, which forms a screwing connection with the syringe barrel's thread, providing enhanced sealing integrity by compressing and engaging with the thread flanks and root, utilizing elastomeric materials for improved friction and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a Luer Lock connector with thread and cone is used to connect needle hub to syringe barrel, then the connection can be secured with screwing action, but the connection may loosen during transport and storage especially at reduced temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically adapt to thermal expansion and contraction of the thread during temperature changes. This dynamic flexibility prevents the connection from loosening while maintaining secure engagement throughout the product lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element's material properties are specifically selected to exhibit controlled deformation under thermal stress. By changing the physical state response to temperature variations, the locking element maintains optimal engagement forces across different storage conditions, preventing both over-tightening and loosening.
2Reliability
If the screwing connection is made secure to prevent loosening, then connection stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated directly into the adapter body as a unified component rather than being a separate mechanism. This merging of the locking function into the existing adapter structure adds stability without requiring additional complex assemblies, motors, or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable locking element automatically engages and disengages based on the screwing action and thermal conditions without requiring external control systems. The element self-adjusts to maintain optimal connection forces, eliminating the need for complex active locking mechanisms.
3Reliability
If elastomeric locking elements are used to enhance sealing, then sealing integrity improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element's material is selected with specific viscoelastic properties that allow it to deform within controlled parameters during assembly and use. This material parameter selection enables reliable sealing while accommodating normal manufacturing variations without requiring extremely tight tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is made from elastomeric composite materials that combine flexibility with controlled deformation characteristics. These composite materials provide consistent sealing performance across different manufacturing batches while maintaining ease of assembly through their inherent deformability.
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 deformable locking element enhances the sealing integrity of the Luer Lock connection, preventing loosening and leakage, even under vibrational and temperature-induced stress, ensuring secure fixation and convenient operation during long-term storage and use.
Implementation Method 1
at least one deformable locking element arranged within a region of the counter thread and protruding radially beyond a minor outer diameter of the counter thread, such that the at least one deformable locking element is configured to be deformed by the thread of the Luer Lock connector when the adapter is screwed to the syringe barrel
Implementation Method 2
utilizing elastomeric materials for improved friction and stability
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for connecting a needle to a syringe barrel including a Luer Lock connector having a thread and a cone. The adapter includes: a first part configured to support the needle; a second part including a counter thread configured to form a screwing connection with the thread of the Luer Lock connector; and at least one deformable locking element arranged within a region of the counter thread and protruding radially beyond a minor outer diameter of the counter thread, such that the at least one deformable locking element is configured to be deformed by the thread of the Luer Lock connector when the adapter is screwed to the syringe barrel.