Infusion Pump Elastic Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pumps have complex lock mechanisms that require numerous operations to secure and release the drug storage unit, complicating user interaction and operability.
Innovation Solution
A simplified lock mechanism using engagement portions with elastic forces allows for a locked state to be achieved through fewer operations by deforming or moving the first and second engagement portions, which are engaged by sandwiching the infusion tube between the main body and mounting portions, enabling easy mounting and separation with a reduced number of steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock mechanism is provided to fix the drug storage unit when attached to the drive unit, then security and reliability are improved, but the mechanism becomes complicated and requires many operations
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism automatically engages when the mounting portion is attached to the main body, and automatically releases when the mounting portion is removed. The elastic portion provides self-latching functionality without requiring user intervention for locking or unlocking operations, making the system secure yet simple to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate elastic portion distinct from the mounting structure. This elastic portion acts as an independent latching element that engages with the engagement portions during mounting, providing security without complicating the overall mounting mechanism.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is provided to fix the drug storage unit when attached to the drive unit, then security and reliability are improved, but the number of operations required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism performs its locking and unlocking functions automatically based on the mounting and removal actions. The elastic portion engages with the engagement portions to secure the unit during attachment, and releases during removal, eliminating the need for separate locking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the mounting operation itself. The act of attaching the mounting portion to the main body simultaneously performs both mounting and locking functions, while removal simultaneously performs unlocking and dismounting functions.
3Ease of operation
If engagement portions are deformed or moved by elastic force during mounting, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic portion changes its physical state from deformed to restored, utilizing elastic deformation as a functional parameter. This allows the engagement portions to move or deform during mounting and then return to their original configuration, providing ease of operation while maintaining reliable 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 solution enhances the operability of infusion pumps by simplifying the lock mechanism, allowing for secure attachment and detachment with fewer operations, thereby improving user interaction and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic portion capable of biasing the endless portion in a longitudinal direction of the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An infusion pump for feeding a drug, the infusion pump includes: a main body portion comprising a first engagement portion; and a main body mounting portion comprising a second engagement portion configured to engage with the first engagement portion. The main body portion and the main body mounting portion are configured to feed a drug in an infusion tube by sandwiching the infusion tube therebetween. The main body mounting portion is mounted on the main body portion by engaging the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion. The first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are engaged with each other by deformation or movement of the first engagement portion or the second engagement portion by elastic force in conjunction with a mounting operation in which the main body portion and the main body mounting portion approach each other with the infusion tube sandwiched therebetween.