Infusion Transport Element Connector Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transport elements for infusion systems, such as those used by diabetes patients, require specific attention to correctly connect the reservoir to the connector, as incorrect connections can lead to malfunctions like leakages, which patients may struggle to manage without trained medical assistance.
Innovation Solution
The transport element incorporates aligning and holding means within the connector to ensure the reservoir is properly aligned and secured in a predetermined orientation, reducing the risk of misalignment and leakage. This includes additional aligning means, such as ribs, and resilient members to facilitate easy connection while maintaining accurate alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If aligning and holding means are added to the connector, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aligning and holding means are segmented into distinct functional elements: aligning means (such as ribs or protrusions) that guide the reservoir into correct alignment, and holding means (such as lugs or engagement features) that secure the reservoir in position. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The aligning and holding means act as intermediary structures between the connector and the reservoir. These intermediate features facilitate the connection process by first guiding alignment and then providing holding engagement, mediating the interaction between the two components to ensure reliable connection without requiring complex direct engagement mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If aligning and holding means are provided, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aligning and holding means are merged into the connector as an integrated structure rather than separate components. This merging allows both alignment and holding functions to be achieved through a unified design, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining ease of operation. The combined structure can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit, reducing the number of additional manufacturing steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport element for transporting a substance in a reservoir includes a transport means, such as a conduit, tube, hose or the like, and a connector arranged at an inlet end of the transport means for connecting to the reservoir such that in a connected condition in which the connector is connected to said reservoir a medium through flow connection is provided between said reservoir and the inlet end of the transport means for receiving said substance from said reservoir. The connector includes aligning and holding means for aligning and holding the reservoir in a predetermined orientation with respect to and/or position along a longitudinal axis of the connector. An infusion set, system or combination including transport element, and a method of at least fluidly connecting such a transport element to a reservoir.