Fluid Transfer Device Gear System for Inexperienced Users
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid transfer devices are not designed with sufficient operational safety for inexperienced or motor-skilled limited users, particularly when handling powdered medications that require reconstitution and transfer.
Innovation Solution
A liquid transfer device featuring a gear system with a driver ring and rotary actuation element that allows for easy displacement of the hollow needle assembly between rest and connection positions, secured against rotation, and a locking mechanism to prevent unintended return to the rest position, along with a lifting driver to relieve seal pressure and facilitate easier operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotary actuating element with gear system is used to displace the hollow needle assembly, then the effort required for needle displacement is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a simple direct mechanical displacement mechanism with a rotary actuating element connected through a gear system (driver ring and drive gear). This substitution transforms linear needle displacement into rotational actuation, reducing the effort required by users while maintaining reliable control over the hollow needle assembly's movement between rest and connection positions.
2Reliability
If the hollow needle assembly is secured against rotation, then operational safety is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic design where the hollow needle assembly's rotational constraint is selectively applied. During the actuation process, the assembly is temporarily free to rotate, allowing easy operation. Once the needle reaches the desired position (connection or rest), it is automatically secured against rotation through engagement features (such as the driver ring engaging with the hollow needle assembly). This dynamic approach ensures both ease of operation during actuation and operational safety when positioned.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unintended return to rest position, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a locking mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the hollow needle assembly and the base body. This mechanism (comprising locking elements that engage with corresponding features on the hollow needle assembly) prevents unintended return to the rest position by mechanically blocking such movement. The locking mechanism integrates seamlessly with the existing gear system, providing reliable position maintenance without requiring a completely separate complex subsystem.
4Ease of operation
If the rotary actuating element is designed to be removable from the base body, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the actuating system into two main components: the removable rotary actuating element and the base body with integrated gear system. This segmentation allows the actuator to be easily removed and replaced by users, improving ease of operation and enabling replacement if lost or damaged. Meanwhile, the base body retains the essential locking and positioning functions, ensuring that connection reliability is maintained through the robust base body design and its integrated features.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for transferring a fluid between a storage container and at least one further container for use comprises a storage container sealing section (4) by means of which a main part (5) of the transfer device sealingly rests on the storage container (2). A hollow-needle assembly (9) comprises a hollow needle (10). Said hollow-needle assembly (9) can be linearly moved relative to the main part (5) along an axis of movement between a retracted resting position and a deployed connecting position by means of a gearing (12). In the connecting position, the hollow needle (10) provides a fluid connecting channel between the storage container (2) and the transfer device. A connecting section (16) serves to sealingly connect the transfer device to the container for use. A rotating actuating element (20) is operatively connected to the hollow-needle assembly (9) via the gearing (12). The gearing (12) has a driver ring (25) which is mounted in the main part (5) so as to rotate axially and about the axis of movement. Said driver ring cooperates with a matching threaded section (27) of the hollow-needle assembly (9) for the purpose of movement of the latter. During the movement, the driver ring (25) is connected to the rotating actuating element (20) for conjoint movement. The invention provides a transfer device with improved operational safety, in particular when used by an unexperienced patient.