Dialysis Connector Sealing via Hinged Cap and Segmented Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for hemodialysis machines require a cumbersome and costly sealing procedure using a welded sheet to prevent contamination and loss of the aqueous solution, which is inefficient and not cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a collapsible cap attached via hinged or frangible linkages, where the cap folds over the outer side to seal the tube openings, eliminating the need for an external sealing sheet and providing a novel sealing system for one- or two-compartment disposable containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a welded sheet is used to seal the connector openings, then contamination and loss of aqueous solution are prevented, but the sealing procedure becomes cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate members: an annular member that forms the basic connector structure, and a separate disk member that provides the sealing function. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the sealing procedure by eliminating the need for external welded sheets.
Solution Approach 2:
The disk sealing member is nested within the annular connector member, with the disk positioned inside the annular space formed by the connector wings. This nested arrangement integrates the sealing function directly into the connector structure, eliminating the need for separate sealing operations.
2Reliability
If a welded sheet is used to seal the connector, then sterility is maintained, but the process is not cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The disk sealing member is pre-formed with the necessary sealing features and can be pre-sterilized separately before assembly. This preliminary action allows for more efficient sterilization processes compared to welding sheets, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining sterility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a disposable component where the disk sealing member is a simple, inexpensive element that can be easily manufactured and sterilized. This approach is more cost-effective than the welded sheet method, especially for single-use medical applications where sterilization reliability is critical.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is made with multiple tubes and wings, then functional requirements are met, but the molding process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into two members that can be manufactured using simpler molding processes. The annular member contains the basic tube structures, while the disk member provides sealing, allowing each component to be molded with less complexity than a single integrated multi-tube structure.
Solution Approach 2:
By nesting the disk sealing member within the annular connector, the design achieves functional versatility without requiring complex integrated molding. The nested structure allows separate optimization of each component's manufacturing process.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connector for a replaceable container to be used in a medical machine, which is comprised by at least a body, the inner side of which is traversed by inlet and outlet tubes extending from within such container towards an outer side of the connector, wherein said tubes separately extend leading to two laterally spaced-apart apertures that are removably attachable to a mounting means and supplementary connection of said machine.