Luer Connector Assembly with Resilient Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luer connector assemblies face challenges in maintaining a secure frictional interference fit between syringe tips and needle hubs, particularly under fluid pressure, which can lead to accidental disengagement and contamination risks, especially in disposable syringe assemblies where metal components are impractical due to cost.
Innovation Solution
A luer connector assembly featuring a soft, resilient material integrated within a rigid fitting using a two-shot molding process, where the resilient material is compressed upon mating, enhancing the connection reliability by engaging both the rigid body and the resilient member, thereby increasing the frictional retention force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid fitting is used to maintain structural integrity, then strength is improved, but frictional retention force deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly uses a composite structure combining a rigid fitting (polypropylene or similar plastic) with a soft resilient member (elastomeric material). The rigid fitting provides structural integrity and mechanical strength, while the soft resilient member embedded within it provides enhanced frictional retention force through compression and deformation, resolving the contradiction between strength and retention reliability.
2Reliability
If a soft, resilient material is used to increase frictional retention force, then reliability is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The soft resilient member is nested within the rigid fitting, with the elastomeric material positioned inside the rigid structure. This nested configuration allows the soft material to provide frictional retention through compression while the surrounding rigid fitting maintains overall structural integrity and shape, enabling both materials to contribute their respective strengths.
3Reliability
If a threaded luer lock collar is used to improve connection strength, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the threaded luer lock collar mechanism from the connector assembly, replacing it with a simplified friction-fit design that uses a soft resilient member for retention. This removes the complexity of threading mechanisms while maintaining reliable connection through the elastic properties of the resilient material.
4Reliability
If a metal threaded collar is used to enhance connection strength, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses inexpensive plastic materials (polypropylene or similar) for the rigid fitting and common elastomeric materials for the soft resilient member, creating a cost-effective connector suitable for disposable applications. This replaces expensive metal threaded collars with affordable plastic and rubber components that achieve reliable connections without requiring costly materials or complex manufacturing processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a more secure connection between syringe tips and needle hubs, reducing the likelihood of accidental disengagement and ensuring a reliable fluid seal, even in the presence of liquids, while being cost-effective for disposable syringe assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
a soft, resilient material is integrated within a rigid fitting using a two-shot molding process, where the resilient material is compressed upon mating, enhancing the connection reliability
Implementation Method 2
A luer connector assembly featuring a soft, resilient material integrated within a rigid fitting using a two-shot molding process
Data Source
AI summary
A luer connector assembly is provided for enhancing the frictional engagement between medical devices such as syringes and needle assemblies. The assembly needle includes a female luer fitting having a passageway and a relatively soft, resilient member bounding the passageway. The passageway is also bounded by the body of the fitting, which is harder than the soft, resilient member. A male luer fitting inserted into the passageway engages both the soft, resilient member and the body of the female luer fitting. A method of manufacturing such a connector assembly is further provided. A first material is injected into a mold to form the body of a female luer fitting, the fitting including a passageway and a recess extending into the body. A second material is then injected such that it extends into the recess and bounds the passageway. The second material, when cool, is softer than the first material.