Micro-Threaded Medical Connector for Tactile Anti-Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical connectors with low friction between threaded connection portions risk accidental disconnection, especially when handling toxic fluids, leading to contamination risks and potential connector breakage due to over-torque from lack of tightness indication.
Innovation Solution
A medical connector design featuring helical threads with micro-threads and a stop mechanism that increases friction by engaging additional micro-threads as the connector is tightened, providing a tactile indication of secure connection and resistance to disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are made from plastic or polymeric materials, then they are suitable for administering toxic fluid, but the friction between threaded connection portions is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding micro-threads only to specific portions of the threaded connection surface, rather than changing the entire connector material or structure. The micro-threads are positioned at locations where they maximize friction enhancement while maintaining compatibility with toxic fluid administration requirements. This localized modification allows the connector to maintain its material properties for chemical compatibility while adding surface features for improved friction.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded connection surface is segmented into multiple functional zones: the base helical threads for primary connection, and multiple micro-threads positioned at different locations and orientations. This segmentation allows each thread type to perform its specific function - the helical threads provide the main mechanical engagement while the distributed micro-threads provide incremental friction enhancement and tactile feedback during tightening.
2Ease of operation
If friction between threaded connection portions is low, then connectors can be easily assembled, but there is a risk of accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The friction characteristic is made dynamic through the progressive engagement of multiple micro-threads at different positions. As the connector is tightened, micro-threads are engaged sequentially, creating a dynamic friction profile that increases gradually. This provides tactile feedback to the operator during assembly while ensuring that once fully engaged, the cumulative effect of all micro-threads provides strong resistance to accidental disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-threads provide tactile feedback to the operator during the tightening process. As each micro-thread is engaged, it creates a noticeable increase in resistance that the operator can feel, providing feedback that the connection is being properly secured. This feedback mechanism reduces the risk of under-tightening while maintaining ease of assembly through clear sensory cues.
3Ease of operation
If friction between threaded connection portions is low, then connectors can be easily assembled, but users may over-torque the connection
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-threads provide progressive tactile feedback during tightening, allowing the operator to sense when the connection is approaching full engagement. The incremental resistance increases as more micro-threads are engaged, providing a natural stopping cue that prevents over-torquing. This feedback mechanism maintains ease of assembly by guiding the operator through the tightening process without requiring complex torque control equipment.
4Reliability
If micro-threads are added to increase friction, then connection security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-threads are positioned at specific local zones on the threaded connection surface rather than being distributed uniformly throughout. This localized placement optimizes friction enhancement at critical engagement points while minimizing the overall complexity of the thread structure. The micro-threads are concentrated in areas where they provide maximum benefit for connection security with minimal additional manufacturing complexity.
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 enhances connection security by increasing friction and providing a tactile feedback during tightening, reducing the risk of accidental disconnection and over-tightening, thus ensuring safe and reliable fluid transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The micro-threads engage the mating connector such that the friction between the connector and the mating connector is increased when the at least one micro-thread of the connector contacts the helical thread of the mating connector
Data Source
AI summary
A medical connector includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending between the distal end and the proximal end, a helical thread extending radially outward from a surface of the sidewall and comprising a crest portion, flank portions, and a root portion with the flank portions connecting the root portion to the crest portion, and at least one micro-thread extending radially outward from the surface of the sidewall. At least a portion of the micro-thread is spaced apart from the helical thread.