Medical Device Hub Interference Fit Packaging Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elongate medical devices, such as catheters, tend to fall out of packaging tubes due to the larger manifold remaining outside, leading to potential contamination or damage, which necessitates improved packaging solutions to prevent premature disengagement.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an interference fit member, such as a circumferential channel or bead, around the hub assembly of the medical device to create a secure fit with the packaging tube, preventing the device from disengaging prematurely while allowing easy removal when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the medical device is placed slidably in the carrier tube for easy handling and packaging, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device tends to fall out of the tube due to the larger manifold remaining outside, worsening the reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hub assembly is segmented into functional components: a manifold for fluid connection, a strain relief member for mechanical protection, and an interference fit member for secure packaging retention. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference fit member acts as an intermediary element between the hub assembly and the packaging tube. It provides a mechanical interface that secures the device within the tube during storage and transport, preventing accidental disengagement while allowing easy removal when needed.
2Reliability
If the interference fit member is designed to provide strong retention with the packaging tube, then the device retention is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The interference fit member is integrally formed with the hub assembly manifold, merging the retention function into an existing structural component. This integration adds retention capability without requiring a completely separate assembly process or additional discrete parts, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub assembly is designed with multi-functionality: the manifold serves both as a fluid connection interface and as a structural base for the interference fit member. The interference fit member itself serves dual purposes by providing both structural support and secure packaging retention, reducing the need for additional dedicated retention components.
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 interference fit member effectively retains the medical device within the packaging tube, reducing the risk of damage and contamination by providing sufficient friction against gravitational and handling forces without compromising easy removal.
Implementation Method 1
The interference fit member provides a raised surface for engaging the inner surface of a packaging tube, whereby the interference fit member provides an interference fit with the inner surface of the packaging tube
Data Source
AI summary
An elongate medical device including a hub assembly located at the proximal end. The hub assembly includes an interference fit member disposed about a portion of the hub assembly, whereby the interference fit member is configured to form an interference fit with the inner surface of a tubular packaging tube when the elongate medical device is placed in the packaging tube.