Needle Assembly Diagnostic Sampling Port Flashback Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IV catheter systems pose challenges in accessing and testing fluid trapped in the flashback chamber without risking fluid spillage or inadvertent needle sticks, particularly with non-removable flash plugs.
Innovation Solution
A safety needle assembly with a diagnostic sampling port and a gas permeable flash plug, allowing for direct access to the flashback chamber via a test strip, and optionally featuring a hinged end cap for removable flash plug access or color-changing substances for visual patient condition indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-removable flash plug is used to seal the flashback chamber, then fluid containment and safety are improved, but access to the fluid for diagnostic testing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The flashback chamber is segmented into two access paths: a sealed path for fluid containment and a separate diagnostic sampling port for fluid access. This allows the flash plug to remain non-removable while providing a dedicated route for diagnostic testing without compromising the primary seal.
Solution Approach 2:
A self-sealing membrane acts as an intermediary between the sealed flashback chamber and the external diagnostic sampling port. The membrane allows fluid to pass through for testing while automatically sealing to maintain containment, thus enabling both fluid access and fluid containment simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If the flash plug is made removable to enable fluid access, then diagnostic sampling becomes easier, but the risk of fluid spillage and inadvertent needle sticks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic sampling function is extracted from the main flash plug structure. Instead of making the entire flash plug removable, only a small diagnostic sampling port is provided that allows controlled fluid access while the main flash plug remains in place to prevent spillage and needle sticks.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-sealing membrane serves as an intermediary that enables fluid access through the flash plug while maintaining the seal. It allows diagnostic sampling to occur without removing the flash plug, thus eliminating the harmful effects of removal while preserving access capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a diagnostic sampling port is added to access the flashback chamber, then fluid testing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic sampling port is merged with the existing flash plug structure rather than being a separate component. The self-sealing membrane is integrated into the flash plug, allowing diagnostic capability to be added without requiring additional separate parts or complex assembly mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flash plug is designed with multi-functionality: it serves as both the primary seal for fluid containment and the interface for diagnostic sampling. The self-sealing membrane enables the same structure to perform both sealing and controlled access functions, reducing overall device 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 solution reduces the risk of fluid spillage and inadvertent needle sticks by enabling safe and controlled access to the flashback chamber for testing, while also providing visual indicators of patient conditions through color-changing substances.
Implementation Method 1
a gas permeable flash plug
Data Source
AI summary
A needle assembly. The needle assembly enabling the analysis of fluid trapped in a flashback chamber after an insertion needle has been inserted into a patient's vein.