Multi-Channel IV Fluid Coupling for Stable Flow Without Premixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid couplings for connecting multiple intravenous fluid delivery tubes to a single-bore outlet member, such as an intravenous cannula, often result in unacceptable variations in flow rates due to mixing of fluids in a large common space, and are time-consuming to fabricate, with potential stretching of tubes leading to reduced flow area and degradation of internal coatings.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a body having sockets for receiving tube ends and interior flow paths that communicate directly to a nozzle, preventing fluid mixing before discharge, formed by injection molding for a compact and efficient design, allowing for sealed connections and various fluid delivery regimes with optional valves and filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large common space is used for fluid mixing in existing couplings, then multiple fluids can be combined, but flow rate variations occur due to fluid mixing
Solution Approach 1:
The connector divides the fluid pathway into separate, isolated channels for each fluid source. Each tube connects to its own dedicated flow path that terminates at the nozzle end without intersecting other fluid paths, preventing mixing while maintaining the ability to combine multiple fluids at the final discharge point
2Ease of manufacture
If tubes are fed through a cavity and bonded in position (V-set method), then connection is achieved, but fabrication time increases and tube stretching occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple functions into a single molded component: tube reception sockets, sealed flow paths, and nozzle integration are all formed in one injection molding process. This eliminates the need for separate bonding and assembly steps required by the V-set method, significantly reducing fabrication time while maintaining secure connections
3Ease of manufacture
If tubes are fed through a cavity for bonding, then connection is established, but tube stretching reduces flow area and degrades internal coatings
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with pre-formed sockets that receive tube ends without requiring forceful insertion or stretching. The injection molding process creates receptacles that accommodate the tubes in their natural state, preventing dimensional distortion and coating degradation while still achieving secure, sealed connections
4Volume of stationary object
If multiple tubes are fed through a single cavity, then space is utilized, but space constraints limit tube cross-sectional size
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a three-dimensional arrangement of multiple independent flow paths within the nozzle structure. Each tube receives a dedicated spatial channel that optimizes the use of available volume, allowing accommodation of various tube diameters and configurations without the space constraints that would result from forcing multiple tubes through a single linear cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid coupling (10) comprising several intravenous fluid delivery tubes (11) and a connector (15). The connector (15) is configured for attachment to an intravenous cannula or needle. The connector (15) comprises a body (20) having a first end portion (21) and a second end portion (22). The first end portion (21) comprises a plurality of sockets (23), each socket being adapted to receive an end section of a respective fluid delivery tube (11). The second end portion (22) comprises a nozzle (31) having an end face (33), wherein there is a plurality of interior flow paths (41) within the nozzle. Each flow path (41) opens onto the end of the nozzle (31) and communicates with a respective one of the sockets (23), whereby fluid delivered by each tube (11) is transported along the respective flow path (41) to the end of the nozzle (31) and the intravenous cannula or needle attached thereto. Each tube (11) has an end section thereof sealingly received in a respective socket (23).