Fuse Assembly Inspection Fixture for Catheter Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual inspection methods for fuse joints in catheter assemblies are inconsistent and prone to damaging the assemblies due to varying technician techniques, leading to potential defects being overlooked or the joints being damaged during the inspection process.
Innovation Solution
A test fixture with a curved surface and alignment features that consistently bends the fuse assembly to a designated angle for inspection, ensuring uniformity and reducing the risk of damage, while allowing for visual examination of the joint through a viewing window, potentially coupled with a microscope for enhanced detail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual inspection methods are used by technicians, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but inspection consistency and reliability deteriorate due to varying technician techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a curved surface fixture as an intermediary tool between the technician and the fuse assembly. This fixture standardizes the bending process by providing a predetermined curvature that all fuse assemblies contact, eliminating variations caused by different technician techniques while maintaining the flexibility of manual inspection. The fixture acts as a mediator that ensures consistent inspection conditions without requiring automation.
2Ease of operation
If manual bending and rolling of fuse assemblies is performed, then inspection capability is maintained, but the risk of damaging the assemblies increases due to excessive or improper bending
Solution Approach 1:
The curved surface fixture is designed with a predetermined radius of curvature that is optimized to bend the fuse assembly to the exact angle needed for inspection without exceeding damage thresholds. By pre-calculating and pre-setting the curvature radius, the system provides built-in protection against excessive bending forces. The fixture cushions the bending process by distributing forces evenly along the curved surface, preventing localized stress concentrations that could cause damage.
3Reliability
If consistent bending angles are implemented for inspection, then inspection reliability improves, but device complexity increases due to the need for specialized fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is segmented into simple, discrete components: a base with a curved surface, alignment features, and a viewing window. Each component performs a single, well-defined function. The curved surface provides standardized bending, alignment features ensure proper positioning, and the viewing window enables inspection. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high reliability through consistency while keeping individual components simple and easy to manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A test fixture for inspecting joints of fuse assemblies may bend a fuse assembly at a target angle for inspection. The test fixture may include a base and a guide. The base may feature surfaces angled at the target angle. The guide at least partially overhangs the base to form a channel. The guide may include structures to align on the base and inspect the fuse assembly.