Medical Luer Connector Elastomeric Stopper Contamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Luer connectors used in medical devices often leak or become contaminated due to repeated usage, leading to potential fluid pathway contamination and introduction of particulate materials.
Innovation Solution
A medical luer connector design featuring a female luer end with an elastomeric stopper and channel insert, which reduces contaminant entry by using a cam and groove mechanism and an elastomeric seal to maintain fluid tightness and prevent contamination, along with a contamination cap to prevent external fluid ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If repeated usage of luer connector is allowed, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to leakage and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate male and female portions with distinct functional elements. The female portion includes a septum and stopper that can be independently managed, while the male portion has a separate insertion mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and facilitates easier cleaning and maintenance of individual parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper is pre-positioned to seal the flow pathway before insertion. The septum is pre-formed with a cavity that receives the stopper. These preliminary configurations ensure that the connection is ready for immediate use and reduces the risk of contamination during the connection process.
2Productivity
If repeated usage of luer connector is allowed, then productivity is improved, but harmful factors increase due to particulate contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the internal flow pathway. It seals the cavity and prevents direct contact between contaminants and the fluid flow path. The septum also serves as a mediator by providing a controlled interface for needle insertion while maintaining protection against contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The septum is made of elastomeric material that forms a flexible seal. This flexible membrane can deform during needle insertion but returns to its original shape, maintaining the seal and preventing contamination. The elastomeric material provides a reliable barrier that adapts to different insertion forces while maintaining protection.
3Ease of operation
If elastomeric stopper with slit is used, then ease of operation is improved for needle insertion, but reliability worsens due to potential contamination through slit
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper incorporates a slit that can dynamically open and close. During needle insertion, the slit opens to allow the needle to pass through. After insertion, the elastomeric material returns to its original shape, closing the slit to prevent contamination. This dynamic behavior allows the stopper to adapt to different operational states while maintaining protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the elastomeric stopper changes during operation. When force is applied during needle insertion, the stopper deforms and the slit opens. After the insertion force is removed, the elastomeric material elastically recovers, closing the slit. This parameter change allows the same component to serve both insertion and protection functions.
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 design effectively reduces the likelihood of contaminant entry into the fluid flow path, maintaining a leak-free connection and preventing contamination, even with repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
the female luer part being provided with an elastomeric stopper having a slit to ensure deformation and opening of the slot in response to the male luer
Implementation Method 2
Luer connectors consist of interlocking male (outer) and female (inner) portions which are slightly tapered so as to connect via a pressure or interference fit in a fluid- tight manner
Implementation Method 3
A medical luer connector design featuring a female luer end with an elastomeric stopper and channel insert, which reduces contaminant entry by using a cam and groove mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
A luer medical connector having a male luer body for connection with a female luer assembly which includes a female luer body, a fluid channel insert within the female luer body, an elastomeric seal between the female luer body and the male luer body, and an elastomeric stopper at a proximal end of the female luer body.