Elastic Coupling Device for Universal Vial Adapter

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vial adapters are limited to specific vial sizes, leading to administrative inefficiencies and waste due to the need for multiple adapters to accommodate different vial diameters, and they cannot be used for vials that deviate from standard sizes.

Innovation Solution

A coupling device with an elastic structure that adjusts the adapter to fit different vial sizes by deforming to accommodate vials within a range of diameters, allowing a single adapter to be used for various vial sizes from 13 to 32 mm.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple adapters are used to accommodate different vial sizes, then all vial sizes can be covered, but administrative inefficiencies and waste occur due to the need to manage multiple adapter types

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevial size compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of adapter types

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed with an elastic coupling device that can adjust to accommodate multiple vial sizes (13mm to 32mm diameters) within a single device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters and reducing administrative complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single adapter is designed to fit all vial sizes, then adaptability is improved, but the coupling device becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevial size rangeVSAvoidcoupling device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling device incorporates an elastic structure that changes its dimensional parameters (expanding or contracting) to match different vial diameters, allowing a single adapter design to accommodate a range of sizes without requiring multiple fixed-configuration adapters

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If standard vial sizes are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but vials that deviate from standard sizes cannot be accommodated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevial standardizationVSAvoidnon-standard vial compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling device transitions from a static, fixed-size design to a dynamic, adjustable design where the elastic structure can deform and adapt its shape to accommodate both standard and non-standard vial sizes, expanding compatibility beyond manufacturing standards

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables universal use of a single adapter for multiple vial sizes, reducing waste and administrative burdens by allowing adjustment to fit vials within a specified diameter range, thus improving usability and reducing the need for multiple adapters.

Implementation Method 1

The coupling device comprises an elastic structure for adjusting the adapter to different sizes of the vial

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20240033182A1Coupling device for an adapter for a vial, adapter for a vial, set comprising an adapter of this type, and system comprising an adapter of this type

Publication Date: 2024.02.01 B BRAUN MELSUNGEN AG

AI summary

A coupling device for an adapter for a vial for a medical liquid. The coupling device is configured to connect the adapter to the vial. The coupling device has an elastic structure for adjusting the adapter to accommodate different sizes of the vial.