Double Connector for Extra-Corporeal Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extra-corporeal circulation circuits face issues with stable positioning of tubular inserts within peristaltic pumps, increased circuit dimensions, and high material usage due to complex connections and separate components, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing, sterilization, and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A compact double connector design integrating a pressure chamber and piercible inserts/port within the tubular insert, with coplanar channels and a snap-engaging lever for secure positioning, reducing the need for additional connections and maintaining stability across temperature changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate pressure chamber and tubular insert are used, then the circuit can function properly, but the device complexity and circuit dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure chamber and tubular insert into a single integrated double connector component. The pressure chamber is formed within the body of the connector itself, eliminating the need for separate pressure chamber and tubular insert components. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining all necessary functions for pressure monitoring and fluid circulation.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used, then the circuit can be assembled, but material usage and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The double connector is manufactured as a single integrated component containing the pressure chamber, first channel, second channel, and snap-engaging lever. This reduces the total number of parts requiring manufacturing and assembly, thereby reducing material consumption and simplifying production processes while maintaining full functionality.
3Ease of operation
If complex connections are used, then the circuit can be assembled, but the circuit dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the pressure chamber and channels into a compact double connector, the overall circuit length is reduced. The coplanar arrangement of channels and integrated structure eliminate the need for additional connection segments, resulting in a more compact circuit configuration.
4Ease of operation
If a snap-engaging connection is used, then the connector can be easily inserted, but stable positioning across temperature changes is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-engaging lever is designed with specific geometric features including an inclined surface and engagement notch that create a mechanical lock. This localized structural design provides temperature-compensated stability by maintaining engagement force across temperature variations while preserving easy insertion through the snap-action mechanism.
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 solution provides a stable, compact, and cost-effective extra-corporeal circuit with reduced material usage and simplified manufacturing and sterilization processes, enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of treatments like haemodialysis.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric membrane closes one side of the chamber and is shaped so as to be able to come into contact with the pressure sensor. The elastomeric membrane has a considerable degree of elasticity which allows it to transmit to the sensor the pressure present inside the circuit
Implementation Method 2
The rotor of the pump comprises rollers, usually two rollers, suitable for pressing the flexible tube against the stator. The combined action of the pressure exerted by the rollers and the rotation imparted by the rotor causes displacement of the liquid between the two rollers inside the tube.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5~8
AI summary
The present invention relates to a double connector (24) for a tubular insert (22) intended to connect an extra-corporeal circuit (20) to a peristaltic pump (18). The double connector comprises: a first channel (30) with an axis a u a second channel (32) with an axis «2 not parallel to a\, a pressure chamber (34) arranged along the first channel (30) and suitable for co-operation with a pressure sensor (16). The pressure chamber is closed, on the opposite side with respect to the second channel (32), by a membrane (36) which extends mainly in a plane π substantially parallel to both the axes a\ and a2. Moreover, a straight line r, passing through both axes a\ and <¾ and perpendicular thereto, crosses the membrane. The invention also relates to a tubular insert (22) comprising the double connector (24) and an extra-corporeal circuit (20) comprising the tubular insert.