Manifold Fluid Collection System for Canister Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid collection systems in medical settings require complex and time-consuming connections of multiple canisters, which can be visually and hazardous due to numerous tubes, and lack efficient methods for consistent orientation and positioning, leading to potential human error and increased setup time.
Innovation Solution
A fluid collection system that uses a manifold to distribute suction to multiple canisters through auxiliary vacuum sources, with rigid or semi-rigid connectors and a support stand for consistent positioning, reducing the need for flexible tubes and simplifying the connection process by ensuring consistent orientation and reducing the complexity of setting up serially connected canisters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple canisters are connected in serial configuration to accommodate large fluid volumes, then the fluid collection capacity is improved, but the number of tubes and connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple canister connections into a single manifold structure where multiple canisters are attached to a common distribution point. This merging approach maintains the ability to collect large fluid volumes across multiple canisters while eliminating the need for numerous individual tube connections between each canister, thereby reducing overall connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves as a universal connection structure that can accommodate multiple canisters simultaneously, providing a multi-functional interface that replaces multiple individual connection points. This universal structure allows any number of canisters to be connected through a single standardized interface, reducing the complexity associated with connecting each canister individually.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible tubes are used to connect multiple canisters, then the connection flexibility is improved, but the visual appearance and safety hazards worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the flexible tubes from the system by replacing them with a rigid manifold structure. This removal of flexible tubing eliminates the visual clutter and safety hazards associated with numerous tubes while maintaining the necessary connection flexibility through the manifold's design that allows angular adjustments and flexible positioning of canisters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple canisters are connected without standardized positioning, then the setup adaptability is improved, but the orientation consistency and human error potential worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold incorporates asymmetric positioning features and standardized connection interfaces that guide canisters into consistent orientations. The asymmetric design includes features such as keyed connections, directional ports, and positioned mounting points that ensure each canister is installed in a specific, repeatable orientation, thereby improving reliability while maintaining adaptability through the overall modular structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If numerous tubes are used for canister connections, then the connection versatility is improved, but the time required for setup and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection system into a modular manifold unit with standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows multiple canisters to be connected simultaneously to the manifold rather than requiring sequential connection of each canister to the previous one, thereby reducing setup time while maintaining the versatility of connecting multiple canisters in various configurations.
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 system simplifies the setup and use of multiple canisters by providing a consistent and efficient method for connecting them, reducing the likelihood of human error and improving safety by minimizing the number of tubes and streamlining the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
negative pressure (also interchangeably referred to herein as 'suction' or 'vacuum') is communicated so as to thereby create negative pressure inside the canister to draw in or drain fluids and liquid waste
Data Source
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Figure 1(b)
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AI summary
Fluid collection systems and methods are disclosed which may utilize suction to draw fluids into containers for storage and eventual disposal. The system may utilize rigid or semi-rigid canisters to provide a chamber in which fluids may be collected under negative pressure, stored, and transported. The system may utilize disposable or reusable flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid liners for isolating fluid and liquid waste from the walls of the canister. In various embodiments, either a single canister assembly or multiple canister assemblies are mounted to a manifold, the manifold being configured to support each canister assembly and/or provide a connection to a source of suction for each canister assembly.