Key-Operated IV Catheter Lock With Cam Tabs for Access Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The misuse of intravenous (IV) catheters by patients for drug injection poses a significant risk of prolonged hospitalizations, infections, and fatal overdoses, particularly during hospital stays or when patients are sent home with IV access, exacerbating the opioid and substance abuse crisis.
Innovation Solution
A catheter lock system that requires a key for access, restricting use to authorized personnel, featuring a clamshell housing with interlocking tabs and a key-operated locking mechanism to secure IV catheters, ensuring only authorized individuals can access the IV line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a catheter lock system with key is implemented, then patient access to IV catheter is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is nested within the catheter hub structure, with the key-operated lock integrated into the existing IV connection architecture. The cam mechanism is housed within the hub body, and the locking tabs are formed as integral parts of the hub structure, effectively hiding the security features within the familiar catheter assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The key acts as an intermediary element between authorized personnel and the catheter access. The key-operated cam mechanism serves as a mediator that translates simple key rotation into complex locking/unlocking actions, providing security without requiring complex electronic systems or specialized training.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a key-operated locking mechanism is added to secure IV catheters, then drug misuse is prevented, but ease of operation for medical staff decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter lock is pre-configured during manufacturing with the locking mechanism already in place. The key code is predetermined and documented in the patient's medical record, allowing medical staff to access the catheter without needing to program or configure anything at the point of care. The system is ready to use immediately upon attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The security function is extracted from the catheter itself and placed in a separate key-operated locking mechanism. This allows the catheter to maintain its standard design for fluid delivery while the security feature is implemented as a distinct, easily operated locking system that can be independently managed.
3Reliability
If interlocking tabs are used to secure the lock mechanism, then reliability of locking is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking tabs are merged with the hub body and cover structure, forming an integrated assembly where the locking mechanism is built into the existing components rather than being added as separate external parts. The cam feature is formed as an integral part of the cover, eliminating the need for separate locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking tabs serve multiple functions: they provide structural connection between the hub and cover, enable the locking mechanism through cam engagement, and ensure proper alignment during assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
A catheter lock system includes a clamshell housing comprising a body and a cover; one or more interlocking tabs of the body having a hook feature; compatible interlocking tabs of the cover configured to releasably engage with the interlocking tabs of the body; a key with one or more protrusions arranged at two different angles; one or more lock disc cams including a cam feature; wherein a rotation of the key is operable to cause the interlocking tabs of the body to release from the compatible interlocking tabs of the cover using each of the one or more protrusions of the key.