Luer Connector Stopper Assembly for Leak-Free Contamination Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Luer connectors are prone to leaks and contamination due to repeated usage, which compromises the integrity of fluid pathways and introduces contaminants.

Innovation Solution

A female Luer connector with an elastomeric stopper that achieves zero displacement, combined with a channel insert and seal design to prevent contaminant entry and ensure leak-free operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If Luer connectors are used repeatedly, then connectivity and fluid transfer function is maintained, but leak and contamination risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleak-free operationVSAvoidconnector service life

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into separate components: a reusable Luer connector body and a disposable stopper assembly. The stopper assembly includes a stopper and channel insert that can be easily replaced when contaminated or damaged, while the main connector body continues to serve its fluid transfer function. This segmentation allows the critical sealing components to be replaced without discarding the entire connector.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stopper and channel insert are designed as disposable components that can be discarded after a single use or when contaminated, while the main Luer connector body is recovered and reused. This is achieved through a snap-fit or threaded connection mechanism that allows easy attachment and detachment of the stopper assembly from the connector body, enabling cost-effective repeated use of the connector while maintaining hygiene through disposal of contaminated parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

2Ease of operation

If conventional Luer connectors are used, then basic fluid transfer function is achieved, but contaminant entry and leakage occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector functionalityVSAvoidcontaminant entry

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A channel insert is introduced as an intermediary component between the external environment and the internal fluid pathway. The channel insert includes a channel that guides fluid flow and a seal surface that contacts the stopper to create a tight seal. This intermediary structure prevents contaminants from entering the connector while maintaining smooth fluid flow through the designated channel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The stopper is made from an elastomeric material that forms a flexible seal against the channel insert. The elastomeric material can deform to accommodate slight variations in the channel insert geometry while maintaining a tight seal, preventing contaminant entry. The flexible nature of the elastomeric stopper allows it to return to its original shape after being compressed during connection, ensuring continuous sealing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Object-affected harmful factors

If elastomeric stopper with zero displacement is used, then contaminant entry is prevented, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontaminant entryVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stopper and channel insert are merged into a single disposable assembly that functions as one integrated unit. The channel insert is positioned within the stopper, and together they form a unified sealing mechanism that attaches to the Luer connector body as a single component. This merging simplifies the overall structure by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be assembled and maintained.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stopper and channel insert are designed as disposable components that are cheaper and simpler than the main Luer connector body. By making these critical sealing components disposable, the design avoids the complexity of creating a permanent, maintenance-free sealing system. The disposable nature allows for simpler manufacturing and easier replacement, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective sealing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 significantly reduces the likelihood of contaminant entry and maintains a leak-free fluid flow path, enhancing the reliability and hygiene of medical connectors.

Implementation Method 1

an elastomeric stopper which achieves zero displacement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

Luer connectors comprise 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

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInterference fit:

Implementation Method 3

form a fluid-tight connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSealing:

Data Source

PatentUS12576256B2Medical Luer connector

Publication Date: 2026.03.17 HALKEY-ROBERTS CORP

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.