Integrated Valve Design for Fluid Drainage Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical fluid drainage systems rely on deformable tubes and clamps, which are inefficient and risk fluid exposure, and existing valves like Schrader valves are costly and prone to fluid loss due to dead space.
Innovation Solution
A valve design with rotatable or pivotable valve arms integrated with a mounting wall, allowing for fluid-tight sealing and reduced fluid loss during disconnection, formed from a unitary construction to minimize manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional deformable drainage tubes and clamps are used, then fluid drainage is achieved, but the system requires multiple separate components and risks fluid exposure to surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the valve mechanism directly into the connector assembly, merging functions that were previously separate (drainage tube, clamp, and connector) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate clamps and reduces the number of components while maintaining reliable fluid containment through the integrated valve closure mechanism.
2Reliability
If Schrader valves are used to control fluid flow, then valve function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and fluid loss due to dead space occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane or diaphragm as the valve closure element instead of a traditional Schrader valve stem and spring assembly. This flexible film approach achieves reliable fluid flow control and sealing while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost, eliminating the need for multiple discrete valve components.
3Reliability
If traditional valve designs with axial valve stems are used, then valve function is achieved, but significant fluid loss occurs due to dead space created by the valve stem
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from an axial valve stem design to a radial or lateral closure mechanism where the flexible membrane moves perpendicular to the fluid flow direction. This dimensional change eliminates the dead space volume created by axial stems, allowing complete fluid evacuation from the connector while maintaining effective sealing during the closed state.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
There is provided an apparatus for controlling fluid flow, comprising a first component for holding or conveying fluid, the first component having a port for the passage of fluid, a fluid passageway (18) from the interior of the first component to the exterior of the first component through the port, a contact valve (1) located in the fluid passageway (18), a second component having an abutment means, and connecting means for connecting the second component to the first component, the contact valve (1) comprising a first valve arm (8) extending into the fluid passageway (18), the first valve arm (8) being movable between an open position in which fluid flow through the fluid passageway (18) is substantially permitted, and a closed position in which fluid flow through the fluid passageway (18) is substantially prevented, wherein, when the second component is connected to the first component, the abutment means moves the first valve arm (8) into the open position.