Fluid Connector Latching Mechanism for Secure Medical Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid connectors for medical containers lack secure locking mechanisms and user feedback, leading to accidental disconnection risks and contamination, especially when handling toxic fluids.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connector design featuring a tubular body with a needle and outer sleeve that transitions from a non-communicative to communicative position, including a latching mechanism, visible detent, and color-coded grip portions to ensure secure engagement and user confirmation of proper alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fluid connector is designed with a simple structure for establishing fluid communication, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a self-latching mechanism where the outer sleeve automatically engages with the adapter through a detent and groove interaction. When the outer sleeve is pushed distally, the detent on the adapter engages with a groove in the outer sleeve, creating automatic locking without requiring additional user actions or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector provides tactile feedback through the detent-groove engagement mechanism. When the outer sleeve reaches the locked position, the detent engages with the groove, creating a distinct tactile sensation that confirms proper connection to the user, eliminating uncertainty about connection status.
2Reliability
If a latching mechanism is added to prevent accidental disconnection, then connection security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is entirely passive and self-actuating. The detent on the adapter and groove in the outer sleeve work together automatically when the connector is assembled or disconnected, requiring no motors, sensors, or complex control systems. The mechanical interaction itself provides the locking and unlocking functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: the adapter with detent, the outer sleeve with groove, and the tubular body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified system, simplifying manufacturing and assembly.
3Loss of information
If visual feedback indicators are added to show proper connection, then user awareness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is provided with visual indicators such as color coding or markings that change appearance or position when properly connected. For example, the adapter may have a colored ring or indicator that aligns with a corresponding mark on the outer sleeve when locked, providing immediate visual confirmation without requiring electronic displays or complex indicator mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid connector for selectively establishing fluid communication between a first medical container and a second medical container is provided. The fluid connector includes an adapter configured to removably attach to the first container. The adapter includes an access port and a cap. The connector further includes an outer sleeve connected to the adapter and a tubular body retained at least partially within the outer sleeve. The body has a proximal end connected to the adapter and a distal end connected to the second container. The fluid connector is transitionable from a first position in which the first container and the second container are in fluid isolation to a second position in which the first container and the second container are in fluid communication. At least a portion of the cap of the adapter is retained within the outer sleeve.