Infusion Adapter Retaining Ring for Secure Leak-Proof Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion systems face issues with insecure connections between syringes and infusion bags, leading to accidental disconnections, leakage, and high force requirements for piercing fluid barriers, which can compromise the integrity and safety of drug administration.
Innovation Solution
An infusion adapter with a retaining ring that securely connects to an infusion fluid container, featuring a radially extending design with a tapered surface for easy insertion and a sharp edge to prevent disconnection, along with optional visual indicators for full insertion confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a needle is used to pierce the fluid barrier of the infusion bag, then the syringe can be connected to the infusion bag, but high forces are required for piercing and the connection may be insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adapter as an intermediary device between the syringe and the infusion bag. The adapter includes a first portion that connects to the syringe and a second portion that engages with the infusion bag's injection port. This intermediary structure distributes the piercing force and provides a more secure connection mechanism, reducing the force required compared to direct needle piercing while improving connection reliability.
2Reliability
If the connection between syringe and infusion bag is not secure, then the setup is simple, but accidental disconnection and leakage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into distinct portions: a first portion for syringe connection and a second portion for infusion bag engagement. Each portion can be optimized independently for its specific function. The segmented design allows for specialized connection mechanisms in each section, improving overall reliability while keeping each segment relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter engages with the infusion bag's injection port in a dimensional manner, utilizing the radial and longitudinal dimensions to create a secure fit. The adapter's geometry allows it to engage the injection port from multiple angles, providing mechanical interlocking that prevents accidental disconnection without requiring complex multi-component mechanisms.
3Strength
If high forces are required to pierce the fluid barrier, then the connection may be secure, but the integrity and safety of drug administration is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a mediator that protects the infusion bag's fluid barrier from direct high-force piercing. By distributing the insertion force across the adapter's structure and using a tapered entry portion, the adapter reduces stress concentration on the fluid barrier while still achieving secure penetration. This protective function maintains the integrity of the infusion bag and reduces the risk of leakage and contamination.
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
The adapter provides a secure, leak-proof connection that prevents accidental disconnection and reduces the force required for insertion, ensuring reliable drug transfer and maintaining a sealed connection during administration.
Implementation Method 1
a tapered surface for easy insertion
Implementation Method 2
a sharp edge to prevent disconnection
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2A
Figure 3
AI summary
An infusion adapter for connection with an infusion fluid container includes a connection portion configured to engage an injection port of an infusion fluid container, and a port configured to connect to an intravenous line, with the port in fluid communication with the connection portion. The connection portion includes a retaining ring extending radially outward from the connection portion, with the retaining ring configured to securely connect the infusion adapter to the infusion fluid container to substantially prevent disconnection of the infusion adapter from the infusion fluid container once the infusion adapter is connected to the infusion fluid container. The retaining ring includes an indicator configured to provide visualization of insertion of the connection portion into an injection port of an infusion fluid container.