Infusion Line Flow Component with Venturi Dead Space Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In medical infusion/transfusion lines, a dead space between the one-way valve and the main duct leads to stagnation of secondary liquid and air due to the restricted space, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed.
Innovation Solution
The main duct features an axial section with a convergent-divergent profile, creating a venturi effect that transfers kinetic energy from the primary liquid flow to eliminate stagnation by using the flow as an ejector to flush out the secondary liquid and air from the dead space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a one-way valve with elastic diaphragm is used to enable secondary liquid introduction, then the functionality of medical infusion/transfusion lines is improved, but a dead space is created between the valve and main duct causing stagnation of secondary liquid and air
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful dead space volume by creating a communication passage that connects the chamber to the main duct, effectively removing the stagnant zone from the system. The passage allows continuous flow through what would otherwise be a dead space, extracting the harmful stagnation effect while preserving the valve's one-way functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication passage acts as an intermediary element between the chamber and main duct. This intermediary structure enables the primary liquid flow to reach the chamber area and eliminate stagnation, while allowing the one-way valve to continue functioning as intended. The passage mediates between the conflicting requirements of maintaining valve functionality and eliminating dead space.
2Volume of moving object
If the space between the one-way valve and main duct is restricted, then the device structure is compact, but the restricted space creates a dead space that causes stagnation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the flow path by creating a distinct communication passage separate from the main duct. This segmentation allows the compact chamber structure to be maintained while providing a dedicated flow channel that prevents stagnation. The passage divides the space into functional zones: the compact chamber for valve operation and the flow-through passage for eliminating dead space effects.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the main duct is modified with a convergent-divergent profile to create venturi effect, then the kinetic energy transfer to eliminate stagnation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the main duct by introducing a convergent-divergent profile in a localized area. This parameter modification creates the venturi effect that accelerates flow and eliminates stagnation. The localized nature of this modification minimizes manufacturing complexity while achieving the desired hydrodynamic effect for stagnation elimination.
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
This solution effectively prevents stagnation and ensures continuous flushing of the secondary liquid and air from the dead space, enhancing the functionality of medical infusion/transfusion lines.
Implementation Method 1
the main duct has, in an area corresponding to the one-way valve, an axial section with a wall having a convergent-divergent profile... produces in use the effect of an ejector, thanks to which the kinetic energy possessed by the flow of the liquid within the main duct itself is partially transferred to the dead space
Implementation Method 2
the one-way valve, typically including an elastic-diaphragm open-close element... the open-close element of which consists of an elastic diaphragm housed within a chamber and normally set in hermetic contact against an annular valve seat
Data Source
AI summary
A flow component for medical infusion/transfusion lines comprises a main duct and a lateral tubular connection containing a one-way valve, in an area corresponding to which the main duct has an axial section with a wall having a convergent-divergent profile.

