Infusion Tube Connector Levers for Easier Latch Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infusion sets with compact designs can be difficult for users with impaired movement and dexterity to connect and disconnect, particularly for those with conditions like Parkinson's disease or arthritis, due to the small and intricate nature of the components.
Innovation Solution
A tube connector with opposing latch arms and levers that are resiliently joined to a connector body, allowing for easier connection and disconnection by reducing the force required, featuring separate levers that are larger and easier to grip, and a planar design with aligned latch arms and levers for improved usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the infusion set is made compact, then the infusion system is less obstructive and more comfortable to wear, but it becomes more difficult for users with impaired movement and dexterity to connect and disconnect the tube connector
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is divided into functional segments: latch arms for engagement, levers for actuation, and a connector body for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the levers can be made larger for easier gripping while the overall connector remains compact
Solution Approach 2:
The levers act as intermediary elements between the user's hand and the latch arms. Instead of requiring direct manipulation of small latch arms, the levers provide a larger interface that translates user input into effective latch arm movement, bridging the gap between compact design and ease of operation
2Volume of moving object
If the latch arms are made small to fit in a compact connector, then the connector size is reduced, but more force is required to deflect the latch arms for connection and disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The latch arms are designed as resilient (flexible) components that can dynamically deflect during engagement and disengagement. This dynamic property allows small latch arms to be used while still enabling connection and disconnection through controlled flexing, reducing the static force requirement
Solution Approach 2:
The levers serve as force-amplifying intermediaries between the user and the latch arms. By providing a larger lever arm, the system reduces the input force needed from the user while maintaining effective force transmission to the small latch arms for engagement
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 design reduces the force needed for users with impaired movement and dexterity to connect and disconnect the infusion set, enhancing user comfort and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
opposing first and second latch arms resiliently joined to the connector body at flexing points
Implementation Method 2
a first lever attached to the first latch arm and a second lever attached to the second latch arm, the first and second levers extending alongside the first and second latch arms, respectively, such that pressing the first and second levers towards each other deflects the first and second latch arms relative to the connector body
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a tube connector (402) for an infusion set, for example for delivering insulin from an insulin pump. The tube connector includes a connector body (404) adapted for connection with a tube (406). The tube connector also includes opposing first and second latch arms (412, 414) resiliently joined to the connector body at flexing points (420, 422). The tube connector also includes a first lever (424) attached to the first latch arm and a second lever (426) attached to the second latch arm. The first and second levers extend alongside the first and second latch arms, respectively, such that pressing the first and second levers towards each other deflects the first and second latch arms relative to the body portion about the flexing points.