Adapter Transforming Concentric Dialysis Connectors to Parallel Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dialysis machines from different manufacturers have unique connector plugs with concentric and separate fluid lines, making cartridges with concentric connectors incompatible with machines having separate fluid lines, resulting in additional costs due to the need for multiple cartridge versions.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with concentric adapter ribs and channels that transform concentric fluid lines into parallel lines, allowing a concentric connector to be used on a machine with a separate fluid line connector plug, featuring hooking means for secure attachment and a handle for easy lifting, and a detection plate for machine compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cartridges are provided with connectors specific to each dialysis machine type, then compatibility with the machine is ensured, but the number of different cartridge versions increases and costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves multiple functions: it enables concentric connectors to work with separate fluid line machines, provides structural support, ensures proper fluid flow routing, and maintains mechanical stability during dialysis operation. This single multi-functional component eliminates the need for multiple specialized cartridge versions.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the concentric connector (container side) and the separate fluid line connector (machine side). It mediates the interface incompatibility by providing conversion channels that route fluid from concentric to parallel configurations, enabling compatibility without modifying either the container or the machine.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter is introduced to enable compatibility between concentric connectors and separate fluid line machines, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into distinct functional zones: concentric adapter ribs that interface with the container connector, connecting channels that route fluid flow, end pieces that interface with the machine connector, and hooking means for mechanical attachment. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of modifying the container connector or the machine connector to achieve compatibility, the invention inverts the approach by introducing an adapter that converts the concentric configuration into a parallel configuration. The adapter actively transforms the interface rather than requiring passive adaptation from either side.
3Reliability
If the adapter uses concentric adapter ribs to interface with the connector, then proper fluid line isolation is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter ribs are designed with specific local qualities: the concentric adapter ribs have precise dimensions and positions to ensure proper engagement with the container connector ribs, while the end pieces have different dimensions suited for the machine connector. Each local region of the adapter is optimized for its specific function, ensuring reliable fluid isolation and mechanical connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an adapter (3) for connecting a container connector to a connection socket of a dialysis machine. The container connector is provided with two fluid lines connecting the inside and the outside of the container, whereby the ends that open to the outside are concentric. The coupling socket of the dialysis machine is provided with two fluid lines, whereby the ends that open to the outside are not concentric and are spaced apart. According to the invention, the adapter (3) includes first (301) and second (302) concentric adapter ribs. The first rib forms a circular chamber open to the outside and the base of which is provided with a first opening, while the second rib surrounds the first and forms an annular chamber open to the outside and the base of which is provided with a second opening. In addition, the adapter is provided with a first linking channel (306) into which the first opening from the first circular chamber opens and a second linking channel (307) insulated from the first channel and into which the second opening from the second annular chamber opens. Each channel (306, 307) includes an end piece (308, 309) formed by a circular tube, said end pieces (308, 309) being sized and arranged so that they can be inserted into the receiving members of the connection socket of the dialysis machine.