Linear Sliding Flow Control for Drug Reconstitution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inline liquid drug medical devices lack an efficient mechanism for transitioning between reconstitution and administration modes, often requiring complex rotational mechanisms that can be cumbersome and difficult to use, especially for intuitive fluid control between ports.
Innovation Solution
A manually operated actuating mechanism that applies a linear displacement force to a sliding flow control member within the device, allowing seamless transition between reconstitution and administration positions through a coaxial design, enabling intuitive use and efficient fluid communication between ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotational mechanism is used for flow control, then fluid communication between ports can be achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional rotational flow control mechanism by implementing a linear sliding flow control member that moves axially along the device axis. This inversion transforms the rotational motion into linear motion, simplifying the operating mechanism while maintaining the ability to selectively communicate fluid between different ports. The sliding member moves between a first position for reconstitution mode and a second position for administration mode, eliminating the complexity of rotational mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a linear sliding flow control member is used, then ease of operation is improved, but a mechanism for applying linear displacement force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring-loaded actuating mechanism that provides dynamic force to move the sliding flow control member between positions. The spring element stores and releases mechanical energy to facilitate the linear displacement of the sliding member, enabling intuitive operation without requiring complex external actuation systems. The spring mechanism automatically returns the sliding member to its initial position after actuation.
3Productivity
If rotational mechanisms are used for port communication, then fluid flow control is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent improves operational efficiency by inverting the conventional rotational approach and implementing a linear sliding mechanism that moves along the device axis. This linear motion allows for quicker and more intuitive transitions between reconstitution and administration modes, reducing the time and effort required for mode switching while maintaining effective fluid flow control between ports.
Data Source
AI summary
Inline liquid drug medical device having a longitudinal device axis, a housing with a linear displaceable sliding flow control member displaceable along a transverse bore from a first flow control position for establishing flow communication between a first pair of ports for liquid drug reconstitution purposes to a second flow control position for establishing flow communication between a second pair of ports for liquid drug administration purposes, and a manually operated actuating mechanism for applying a linear displacement force for urging the flow control member to slide along the bore from its first flow control position to its second flow control position.