Medical Coupling Slide Mechanism for Reduced Separation Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical couplings require significant manual force for separation and have difficulty with seal access and ease of handling, particularly during disengagement, and production complexity.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring a movable slide that aids in the separation of coupling parts by acting as an ejector and includes sealing elements on the second coupling part for easy access, along with a method for producing the first coupling part using tubular components and elastic elements for biasing, simplifying the connection and disconnection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a known coupling design with balls and groove is used, then locking engagement is achieved, but significant manual force is required for separation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable slide that can be positioned in different locations within the coupling body. When the coupling is to be separated, the slide is moved to a position where it facilitates the disengagement of the balls from the groove, thereby reducing the manual force required for separation. This dynamic element transforms a static coupling mechanism into one that can adapt its mechanical characteristics based on operational needs.
2Ease of repair
If sealing elements are integrated into the coupling body, then fluid protection is provided, but seal access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing elements from their traditional integrated position within the coupling body and relocates them to the external surface of the coupling. This extraction allows the seals to be easily accessed and replaced without disassembling the coupling mechanism, while still maintaining their fluid protection function when the coupling is assembled.
3Reliability
If a complex retaining mechanism is used to keep locking elements engaged, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring-loaded retaining element that automatically engages with the locking elements to maintain their engaged state. The spring provides continuous force to ensure reliable connection without requiring complex mechanical retention systems. The simplicity of the spring mechanism reduces overall device complexity while maintaining high connection reliability.
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 improves the ease of separation with reduced manual force required, enhances seal accessibility, and simplifies the production and maintenance of the coupling, ensuring effective fluid protection and handling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
elastic elements are provided between a first section of the sleeve and the first projection of the second part, which elastic elements subject the sleeve to a force counter to the direction of insertion
Implementation Method 2
elastic elements are provided in the area of the second section between the outer sleeve and the first part, which elastic elements subject the outer sleeve to a force acting in the direction in which it is pushed on
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling for a medical instrument for connecting two lines, with a first coupling part, and with a second coupling part which can be inserted into the first coupling part in the longitudinal direction of the coupling parts. The coupling comprises first locking elements arranged on the first coupling part and second locking elements arranged on the second coupling part, the first locking elements being movable between a locking position, in which they engage with the second locking elements, and an unlocking position, in which they disengage from the second locking elements. The coupling further comprises retaining elements which are arranged on the first coupling part and which are movable between a retention position, in which they keep the first and second locking elements in engagement with each other, and a release position, in which the first and second locking elements can be disengaged. It is proposed that the first coupling part comprises a slide which is movable in the longitudinal direction thereof and which, upon insertion of the second coupling part into the first coupling part, is moved from an advanced position to a recessed position, that the slide is biased into the advanced position, and that sealing elements are arranged on an end of the second coupling part directed towards the first coupling part which in a state in which the first coupling part is connected to the second coupling part, seal off an interior of the coupling with respect to a fluid.