Modular Parenteral Nutrition Containers with Interlocking Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mixing systems for parenteral nutrition, which require fat, glucose, and amino acids, face challenges such as limited storage life due to the shortest component's lifetime, inability to change component ratios or compositions, and inefficient use of space during shipping, as well as economic operability issues with compounders for large volumes.
Innovation Solution
A modular container system with male and female connectors that can be mechanically engaged to form a channel for mixing, allowing variable ordering and pre-assembled mixing systems with a locking device for secure connection, enabling flexible and safe handling of parenteral nutrition liquids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If three-chamber bags with separate compartments are used, then storage safety and ease of use are improved, but the ability to change component ratios and compositions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the parenteral nutrition into separate single-chamber containers, each containing one component (fat emulsion, amino acids, glucose solution). This segmentation allows each component to be stored independently with its own stability profile while enabling flexible recombination through the connector system to create customized mixtures with varying ratios and compositions.
2Ease of operation
If three-chamber bags are used, then ease of use is improved, but the storage lifetime is limited to the shortest component's lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
By separating components into individual containers, each component can be stored according to its specific stability requirements. The fat emulsion can be stored separately from the aqueous phases, allowing each component to maintain its optimal storage lifetime without being constrained by the shortest-lived component in a pre-mixed bag.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are prepared and stored in advance in their separate containers with optimal stability conditions. The mixing action is postponed until the moment of use, allowing each component to be stored for its maximum possible duration before combination.
3Volume of stationary object
If all components are shipped together in one bag, then space efficiency is improved, but manufacturing flexibility and distribution efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the parenteral nutrition components into individual containers that can be manufactured at different locations according to their specific requirements. Fat emulsions can be produced at specialized facilities while glucose solutions can be manufactured at more common pharmaceutical sites. The separate containers are then distributed and recombined at the point of use, optimizing both manufacturing efficiency and distribution logistics.
4Adaptability or versatility
If compounders are used to mix parenteral nutrition, then composition flexibility is improved, but economic operability is reduced for small volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service mixing by providing pre-packaged single-chamber containers with standardized connectors. The mixing action is performed by the user through simple mechanical connection of the containers, eliminating the need for complex compounding equipment and specialized personnel. This maintains composition flexibility while dramatically improving economic operability for small to medium volumes.
Data Source
AI summary
Container for a mixing system being filled with liquid parenteral nutrition and comprising a male connector and a female connector. The male connector is placed on the opposite side of the container compared to the female connector and the male connector and the female connector are embodied to be mechanically engageable with each other and to engage a mechanical connection with a male connector or a female connector respectively of another container and to form a channel, which enables the passage of liquid. At least two containers form a modular system for parenteral nutrition.