In-Line Sampling Connector for Continuous Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid drainage systems require interruption of the drainage process to obtain a sample of drainage liquid, which is inconvenient for clinicians.
Innovation Solution
A drainage liquid sampling system with a connector that includes an inlet port, an outlet port, and a sample port, where the connector valve can be selectively configured to allow or prevent fluid flow through the sample port, and a cap that seals the sample container, enabling sample collection without interrupting the drainage process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional closed drainage system is used, then the drainage process is simple and reliable, but obtaining a liquid sample requires interrupting the drainage process
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage system is segmented into multiple functional pathways: a main drainage pathway for continuous fluid removal and a separate sampling pathway for obtaining liquid samples. The connector divides the single closed system into parallel flow paths, allowing independent operation of drainage and sampling functions without mutual interference.
Solution Approach 2:
A three-way connector acts as an intermediary component that interfaces between the drainage tube and sample container. This connector provides multiple ports that serve as intermediaries to direct fluid flow to different destinations (collection container or sample container) based on valve positioning, enabling sample collection without disrupting the main drainage pathway.
2Quantity of substance
If the drainage system is interrupted to obtain a sample, then a liquid sample can be collected, but the drainage process stops causing loss of time and reduced efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous drainage action through the main pathway while enabling sample collection through the separate sampling pathway. The valve mechanism allows the drainage process to continue uninterrupted while directing a portion of the flow to the sample container, ensuring both drainage continuity and successful sample acquisition.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling pathway and valve mechanism are pre-configured and ready for use during the drainage process. The connector is integrated into the drainage system beforehand with valves in the closed position, allowing immediate sample collection when needed without requiring system disassembly or interruption of the drainage flow.
3Productivity
If a valve mechanism is added to enable sampling without interruption, then continuous drainage is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The three-way connector serves multiple functions: it acts as a flow distribution junction, houses the valve mechanism for pathway selection, provides connection points for both drainage and sampling, and maintains the closed system integrity. This multi-functional design consolidates several components into one, reducing overall system complexity despite the added valve functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is integrated directly into the connector structure rather than being a separate component. The connector merges the drainage pathway and sampling pathway into a single integrated assembly, combining the functions of flow control, path selection, and connection interface in one unified component that minimizes additional complexity.
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 the collection of a liquid sample without stopping the drainage process, improving clinical efficiency and convenience by allowing continuous fluid flow through the system.
Implementation Method 1
The connector may include a connector valve disposed in line with the sample port. The connector valve may be selectively configurable between an 'open' state and a 'closed' state, such that drainage liquid is allowed to through the sample port when the connector valve is in the 'open' state, and drainage liquid is prevented from flowing through the sample port when the connector valve is in the 'closed' state.
Implementation Method 2
The connector valve may include a connector septum disposed across the sample port. The connector septum may be deflectable, such that when the connector septum is in a deflected state, the connector valve is in the 'open' state, and when the connector septum is in a non-deflected state, the connector valve is in the 'closed' state.
Implementation Method 3
The cap may include a cap valve selectively configurable between an 'open' state and a 'closed' state, such that drainage liquid is allowed to flow into the sample container when the cap valve is in the 'open' state, and drainage liquid is prevented from flowing out of the sample container when the cap valve is in the 'closed' state.
Implementation Method 4
The cap valve may include a cap septum disposed across an opening at a distal end of the cap. The cap septum may be deflectable, such that when the cap septum is in a deflected state, the cap valve is in the 'open' state, and when the cap septum is in a non-deflected state, the cap valve is in the 'closed' state.
Implementation Method 5
In some embodiments the cap includes a protrusion disposed within the opening of the cap, and the protrusion is configured to deflect the cap septum and connector septum upon coupling of the cap with the connector.
Data Source
AI summary
A drainage liquid sampling system is disclosed and includes a connector couplable with a drainage tube of a drainage system, the connector defining an inlet port, an outlet port, and a sample port, where the inlet port, the outlet port, and the sample port are in fluid communication with each other, and a sample container couplable with the sample port. A valve within the connector selectively allows and prevents flow of drainage liquid into the sample container. A cap couplable to the sample container also includes a valve. A system for draining liquid from a patient includes the drainage liquid sampling system.