Fluid Connector Holder With Snap-Latch Fixation for Stable Dispensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid dispensing systems in laboratory environments face issues with unstable fixation of dispensing tubing, complex and non-intuitive operation, contamination risks, and difficulty in extending or accessing tubing while maintaining fixation, and require improved stability and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A holder for a fluid connector fitting with a retainer that uses elastic latches for a snap-in or bayonet-type releasable engagement, allowing adjustable positioning and orientation of the spout, integrated with a stand for stable dispensing, and a cap for secure sealing, enhancing usability and safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple clamps or pinching screws are used to fix the tubing in a stand, then the tubing can be temporarily fixed, but the fixation is not stable, complex, and not intuitive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of fixationVSAvoidstability of fixation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is divided into distinct functional components: a retainer for securing the connector fitting, elastic latches for engagement, and a stand for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, making the overall system both easy to operate and reliable

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer and elastic latches are combined into an integrated holder assembly that automatically secures the connector fitting when the latches engage with the catches. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate clamps or pinching screws, simplifying the fixation process while ensuring stable positioning

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If the tubing is fixed at positions remote from the spout, then the spout can be accessed, but the discharge position and direction are not stable due to vibrations or shocks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of spoutVSAvoidstability of discharge position

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is designed to preliminarily secure the connector fitting in a precise position before dispensing begins. The elastic latches engage with the catches to firmly hold the fitting, preventing any displacement during the dispensing process even when subjected to vibrations or shocks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The holder provides a rigid, non-flexible fixation structure that copies and maintains the precise positioning of the spout throughout the dispensing process, eliminating the instability and flexibility issues associated with remote tubing fixation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If the fixation setup is made rigid to provide counterforce for closing action, then contamination risk is reduced, but the operation becomes more complex and less intuitive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontamination controlVSAvoidintuitiveness of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic latches automatically engage with the catches on the connector fitting when it is inserted into the retainer, providing self-securing action. This self-service mechanism creates a rigid fixation that prevents contamination while remaining simple and intuitive to operate, as the user only needs to insert the connector and the latches do the rest

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If a dismounting and replacement of tubing is required to extend it, then the tubing can be extended, but the process requires multiple steps and interrupts workflow

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveextensibility of tubingVSAvoidnumber of steps in extension process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is designed with dynamic capabilities that allow the connector fitting to be easily detached and reattached. The elastic latches can be quickly released and re-engaged, enabling tubing extension or replacement without complex dismounting procedures, thus maintaining workflow continuity while providing adaptability

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

Provides a simple, stable, and secure solution for dispensing fluids with intuitive operation, reducing contamination risks, and enabling easy extension or access to tubing while maintaining fixation, thus improving laboratory workflow efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

at least one elastic latch, preferably a pair of elastic latches, configured to form a side releasable connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250230882A1Holder for a fluid connector fitting and fluid dispenser including the same

Publication Date: 2025.07.17 MERCK PATENT GMBH

AI summary

The present application relates to a holder for a fluid connector fitting and to a fluid dispenser including the same.