Integral Button Latch with Molded Cantilever Springs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid tube connection devices require multiple parts, including metal springs and molded lock latches, increasing manufacturing costs and complexity, and are not compatible with environments where metal parts may malfunction or pose hazards, such as MRI procedures.
Innovation Solution
An integral button latch is designed with cantilevered springs molded as part of a single disconnect button, eliminating the need for separate metal springs and reducing the number of components, while ensuring compatibility in environments with magnetic fields by using plastic springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate parts (metal springs, molded lock latch, disconnect button) are used to form the connector, then the connector achieves reliable locking functionality, but the manufacturing cost increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the disconnect button, lock latch, and metal springs into a single integrally molded connector body. The button forms a unitary structure with the latch mechanism and spring elements, eliminating the need for separate parts and reducing assembly steps while maintaining the reliable locking functionality through the integrated design
2Reliability
If metal springs are used in the connector, then the connector achieves reliable mechanical springing action, but the connector becomes incompatible with MRI environments and other settings where metal parts pose hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional metal spring mechanism with a plastic spring element that is integrally molded into the connector body. This plastic spring provides the necessary mechanical springing action for the latch mechanism while being non-magnetic and safe for use in MRI environments, thereby eliminating the harmful effects associated with metal parts
3Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used in the connector, then the connector achieves functional reliability, but the manufacturing cost increases due to multiple parts and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components (button, latch, springs) into a single integrally molded part, which significantly reduces manufacturing cost by eliminating the need to purchase, mold, and assemble separate metal springs and latch components. The unitary structure requires only a single molding process, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining functional reliability
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 design reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies assembly, and ensures safety in environments where metal parts are hazardous, while maintaining the functionality of fluid tube connections with secure locking and easy disconnection mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of cantilevered leg springs bias the latch plate in a locked position and resist depression forces applied to each of the button actuator and the latch plate
Data Source
AI summary
An integral button latch is formed for use in a female fluid connector housing. The button latch has a latch plate, a button actuator, and two or more cantilevered leg springs extending from beneath the actuation surface to interface with the connector housing. The latch plate, the button actuator, and the leg springs are all integrally formed. The leg springs bias the latch plate in a locked position and resist depression forces applied to either of the button actuator or the latch plate. By integrally forming the button latch structure, the cost associated with purchasing the springs, molding the lock latch, and the ensuing assembly of the three is significantly diminished.