Infusion Pump Module Connectors With Movable Sealing Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors for infusion pump systems are susceptible to mechanical damage, fluid ingress, and galvanic corrosion, making them undesirable for reliable medical fluid administration.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring an elastomeric sealing structure with movable contacts and additional features like male and female hanger structures, anti-lift structures, and a perimeter seal to prevent fluid ingress and enhance structural load-bearing strength, reducing the risk of mechanical damage and corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used in infusion pump systems, then mechanical coupling and electrical connection can be achieved, but the connectors are susceptible to mechanical damage, fluid ingress, and galvanic corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly uses an elastomeric sealing structure that combines multiple materials with different properties - the elastomer provides flexibility and sealing, while embedded conductive elements provide electrical connectivity. This composite structure protects against mechanical damage, fluid ingress, and galvanic corrosion by distributing stresses and preventing direct contact between dissimilar metals.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric sealing structure acts as a flexible shell that encapsulates and protects the electrical contacts. This flexible membrane provides mechanical protection while allowing electrical signals to pass through, and creates a barrier against fluid ingress without requiring rigid, fragile components.
2Reliability
If an elastomeric sealing structure with movable contacts is used, then fluid ingress is prevented and mechanical damage is reduced, but the connector assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single elastomeric sealing structure - it provides sealing against fluid ingress, mechanical protection for embedded contacts, and a flexible substrate for electrical connectivity. This integration reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying the overall assembly despite the advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric sealing structure serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it seals the connector housing, protects internal components from fluid damage, provides mechanical flexibility to absorb stresses, and embeds conductive elements for electrical connection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
3Strength
If male and female hanger structures with anti-lift structures are added, then structural load-bearing strength is enhanced and connection stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct male and female halves with complementary hanger structures. Each half can be manufactured separately using standard molding techniques, then assembled together. The anti-lift structures are integrated as simple geometric features during the molding process, avoiding complex post-manufacturing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The male and female hanger structures use asymmetric geometries with complementary shapes that provide strong mechanical coupling and prevent disengagement. The anti-lift structures employ tapered asymmetric surfaces that guide assembly while preventing reverse movement, achieving high strength without requiring complex fastening mechanisms.
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 solution provides robust electrical connectivity, reduced fluid ingress, faster drying after cleaning, and minimized galvanic corrosion, ensuring reliable and durable connections for infusion systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric sealing structure with movable contacts - each contact being sealingly disposed in the elastomeric sealing structure and movable upon deformation of the elastomeric sealing structure
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector assembly for a modular medical device is described herein. The connector assembly includes a main body, a printed circuit board, a frame, an elastomeric sealing structure, and a plurality of contacts. The printed circuit is disposed in the main body and has a plurality of electrical contacts. The frame is configured to be attached to the main body and includes a central opening. The elastomeric sealing structure is disposed in the central opening. The plurality of contacts are each sealingly disposed in the elastomeric sealing structure, each arranged in contact with a corresponding one of the electrical contacts on the printed circuit, and each movable upon deformation of the elastomeric sealing structure.