Locking Connector Coupling With Threshold-Force Decoupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional couplers for medical tubing and catheters often become dislodged due to improper securement, leading to unintended decoupling under normal patient movements, and require cumbersome clamps that can cause harm or injury.
Innovation Solution
A coupler assembly with a first connector and a second connector that securely engage via engaging members and securing members, allowing for decoupling only when a predetermined threshold force is exceeded, preventing unintended decoupling and featuring a design that allows for easy reconnection after disconnection events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional couplers are used to connect medical tubing, then the coupling mechanism is simple, but the coupling becomes dislodged under normal patient movements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one with a ratchet mechanism that allows insertion in one direction but prevents removal without deliberate action. The resilient arm with cam surface provides dynamic engagement that maintains secure coupling during patient movement while allowing controlled decoupling when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is divided into distinct functional segments: a resilient arm for engagement, a cam surface for controlled release, and a ratchet mechanism for one-way locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, providing reliable retention while enabling intentional decoupling
2Reliability
If clamps are used to prevent decoupling, then the coupling retention is improved, but the device becomes bulky and can cause harm or injury
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful external clamp is removed from the system entirely. Instead, the coupling security is achieved through an integrated ratchet mechanism and resilient arm design that inherently prevents accidental decoupling without requiring additional external components that could cause patient injury
Solution Approach 2:
The cam surface acts as an intermediary between the resilient arm and the coupling connection. It provides a controlled release mechanism that requires deliberate manipulation, serving as a mediator that prevents accidental decoupling while allowing intentional disconnect without bulky clamps
3Reliability
If the coupling is designed to be secure, then unintended decoupling is prevented, but the ability to decouple when needed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the ratchet mechanism that automatically locks upon insertion. The resilient arm with cam surface provides self-controlled release that requires deliberate action but allows easy decoupling when needed, making the system self-sufficient without requiring additional locking or unlocking components
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler having a first connector including a first end having an inlet and a second end opposite the first end having an opening. The first connector including at least one engaging member disposed between the first end and the second end. The coupler having a second connector including a body extending from an outlet portion. The body configured to be at least partially inserted into the opening to couple the second connector to the first connector. The outlet portion including at least one arm having a securing member configured to engage with the engaging member to secure the first connector to the second connector. When the second connector is coupled to the first connector, the outlet portion is exposed. The first connector is configured to decouple from the second connector in response to a pullout force exceeding a predetermined threshold force.