Luer Lock Connector Parallel-Sided Flow Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Luer connectors in insufflation systems face challenges in providing high flow rates due to increased resistance caused by their conical or tapered surfaces, which restrict gas flow and pressure regulation in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A Luer lock connector design featuring a body with a first end for coupling to tubing and a second end configured to lock and seal around a patient interface fitting, utilizing flexible and rigid materials with ridges or overmoulded structures to reduce resistance and enhance sealing, allowing for improved gas flow and pressure management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional Luer connectors with conical or tapered surfaces are used, then secure connection and sealing are achieved, but resistance to gas flow increases and flow rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector modifies the geometric parameters of the connection interface by using parallel-sided surfaces instead of conical or tapered surfaces, and by optimizing the cross-sectional area of the gas flow path. This parameter change reduces flow resistance while maintaining connection security through alternative sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector divides the connection interface into separate functional zones: one dedicated to sealing (using O-ring or gasket mechanisms) and another dedicated to gas flow (with optimized parallel-sided passages). This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its function without compromising the other.
2Reliability
If conical or tapered surfaces are used in Luer connectors, then leak-free connection is achieved, but pressure drop across the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sealing function from the conical/tapered surface geometry and implements it through dedicated sealing elements (O-rings, gaskets, or elastomeric seals) positioned in specific locations. This allows the main gas flow path to use parallel-sided surfaces that minimize pressure drop while sealing is handled by the extracted sealing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary sealing elements (such as O-rings, gaskets, or elastomeric materials) that mediate between the connection surfaces to create leak-free seals. These intermediaries enable the use of parallel-sided surfaces for gas flow without compromising sealing effectiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standardized Luer connector configurations are used, then compatibility with existing devices is maintained, but flow resistance increases and system performance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector maintains universal compatibility with standardized Luer connections while incorporating enhanced features (parallel-sided surfaces, optimized flow paths, improved sealing mechanisms) that improve performance. This multi-functionality allows it to work with existing devices while providing superior flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows for dynamic optimization of flow characteristics while maintaining standardized connection interfaces. The internal geometry can be dynamically optimized for high flow rates without affecting external compatibility, enabling adaptation to high-performance insufflation requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5A
Figure 5B~5E
AI summary
In one embodiment, a Luer lock connector for use in an insufflation system is described. The Luer lock connector includes: a body comprising a first end, a second end and an interior region; the interior region defining a gases flow passageway allowing insufflation gases to flow through the body from the first end to the second end; and the body being configured to be coupled to a tubing arrangement at the first end and to a patient interface at the second end; wherein, the second end is configured to be coupled to a patient interface fitting of the patient interface, the second end being further configured to seal around an outer surface of the patient interface fitting when the Luer lock connector is coupled to the patient interface; and wherein, the second end forms a seal with the outer surface of the patient interface fitting when the second end and the patient interface fitting are coupled.