Medical Connector Visual Coupling Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dialysis machines face issues with incorrect coupling of terminal connectors to dialysate ports or counter-connectors, leading to potential damage and fluid loss during procedures like washing and disinfection.
Innovation Solution
A medical connector with a visual signaling mechanism, where a coloured signal is visible in the correct coupling position and hidden in incorrect positions, allowing for immediate verification of proper connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual signaling means is added to indicate correct coupling position, then reliability of connection verification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using a colored signal (such as a colored band or colored portion of the maneuvering element) that is visible when the connector is in the correct coupling position and hidden when incorrectly coupled. This provides immediate visual verification of proper connection without adding complex electronic or mechanical verification systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector performs self-verification through its own structure. The maneuvering element's position relative to the signal and recess automatically indicates coupling status without requiring external sensors, actuators, or verification devices. The system verifies itself through the geometric relationship of its components.
2Device complexity
If manual verification of coupling is required, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time for verification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual signal provides immediate verification of correct coupling status, eliminating the need for operators to spend time checking connections. The colored signal is instantly visible or hidden based on coupling position, reducing verification time to a simple visual check while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Device complexity
If no visual indication is provided, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision of coupling status deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color as a visual indicator to precisely communicate coupling status. The colored signal provides clear, unambiguous information about whether the connector is properly coupled, significantly improving detection accuracy compared to no visual indication, while adding minimal structural complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical connector (18) has a visual signal (67) formed by a coloured screen- applied band arranged on a bolt (63). In a correct engaged position of the bolt (63) with an external element, the signal is visible. In an incorrect engaged position, the part of the bolt (63) bearing the signal is lowered, so that the signal is hidden from view, providing an indication of a faulty situation. The medical connector serves to connect the end of a dialysate supply tube to an inlet port of a dialyser.