Multi-Tube Insufflator Coupling With Gas-Tight Sleeve Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting multiple disposable tubes to an insufflator for endoscopic procedures is time-consuming and prone to mixing up tubes due to the use of similar couplings, posing hygiene and efficiency challenges.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a sleeve-shaped element and insufflation pistons that use spring tension for secure connection, combined with resilient sealing elements and latching mechanisms to ensure multiple tube connections are made simultaneously and securely, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and providing gas-tight seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple tubes are connected individually to the insufflator, then each connection can be secured, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual tube connections into a single integrated coupling device. The sleeve-shaped element with multiple insufflation pistons allows several tubes to be connected simultaneously through one unified connection interface, eliminating the need for repeated individual connection operations while maintaining secure sealing for each tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is pre-configured with multiple insufflation pistons and sealing elements positioned within the sleeve-shaped element before use. This preliminary arrangement of sealing components enables all tube connections to be established simultaneously in a single insertion action, rather than requiring sequential connection of each tube.
2Ease of operation
If the same type of couplings is used for all tubes, then the connection process is simplified, but the risk of mixing up tubes increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the overall coupling structure remains unified, the patent incorporates distinctive local features such as different colored sealing elements, varying piston configurations, or specific positioning arrangements for each tube connection point. These localized differentiations allow operating staff to quickly identify and connect the correct tubes without confusion, while still benefiting from the simplified unified coupling interface.
3Reliability
If different coupling systems are used for various tubes, then tube identification is improved, but the operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal coupling interface that can accommodate multiple tubes with different requirements through a single standardized sleeve-shaped element. The internal configuration of the sleeve can be adapted to provide different connection characteristics for different tubes while maintaining the same external interface, thus achieving both ease of operation and proper tube differentiation.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If disposable tubes are used for hygiene reasons, then contamination is prevented, but the connection process requires repeated setup
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is pre-assembled with all necessary sealing elements and insufflation pistons in their correct positions before the disposable tubes are attached. This preliminary preparation of the coupling mechanism allows the entire set of disposable tubes to be connected in a single batch operation, reducing the repeated setup time while maintaining the hygiene benefits of disposable components.
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
Facilitates quick and hygienic connection of multiple tubes, reducing the risk of mix-ups and ensuring consistent pressure control during endoscopic procedures by providing reliable, gas-tight connections that adapt to manufacturing tolerances.
Implementation Method 1
an element compatible with the sleeve-shaped element has n hollow cylinders as a tube set to which the n tubes are connected so as to ensure a fluid connection of all n tubes to the insufflator
Implementation Method 2
the sleeve-shaped element has n insufflation pistons as connecting elements in the region of the sleeve base, wherein the n insufflation pistons as connecting elements protrude from the sleeve base by means of spring tension
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a coupling device for medical pumps, in particular for insufflation pumps for endoscopy, by means of which several tube connections can be closed at the same time. On the insufflator side, the coupling device comprises a sleeve-shaped element with insufflation pistons as connecting elements and a tube set compatible with the sleeve-shaped element for connecting a plurality of tubes, wherein the tube set has a plurality of hollow cylinders.