Interlocking Tube Retainer Blocks for Multi-Diameter Tubing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bioprocessing systems face challenges in securely managing flexible tubing, including tangling, snagging, and accidental disassembly, particularly with tubes of different diameters, which can lead to operational inefficiencies and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The development of a tube retainer system comprising a block structure with male and female connectors and a mounting bar, allowing for secure interlocking and management of tubing through a tube slot and annular opening configuration, which accommodates various diameters and reduces the risk of tangling and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional tube management methods are used, then tubes can be freely routed, but tubes become tangled and prone to snagging
Solution Approach 1:
The tube retainer block is divided into multiple independent tube slots, each capable of holding individual tubes separately. This segmentation allows tubes to be organized in discrete positions rather than freely routed, preventing tangling while maintaining easy access and installation.
2Reliability
If tubes of different diameters are managed separately, then each tube type requires dedicated management, but this increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The tube retainer block incorporates multiple tube slots that can accommodate tubes of different diameters within a single unified structure. The block design allows different slots to hold different tube types simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate management systems for each tube diameter while maintaining secure holding through the common block structure.
3Reliability
If tube retainers are designed with interlocking connectors, then accidental disassembly is prevented, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The male and female connectors are integrated directly into the tube retainer block structure itself, merging the connector functions with the retainer body. This combination eliminates the need for separate connector components and simplifies the assembly process, while the interlocking design between male and female connectors still provides reliable prevention of accidental disassembly.
4Reliability
If a comprehensive tube management system is implemented, then tube security is improved, but the device size and design complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tube slots, connectors, and retention features are merged into a single integrated tube retainer block structure. This consolidation provides comprehensive tube security through multiple functional elements while reducing overall design complexity by eliminating the need for separate components and assemblies.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1F
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Tube retainers, tube retainer sets, and tube management systems comprising blocks (175; 275) with male and female block connectors (180, 190, 190'; 280, 290, 290'), and methods of assembling and using the tube retainers, sets, and systems, are disclosed.