Needle Retraction Structure with Blocking Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety needles with retraction mechanisms often inadvertently activate during shipping or unpackaging, rendering them unsuitable for use, as they lack a mechanism to prevent premature retraction.
Innovation Solution
A safety needle device with a blocking member, such as a safety sheath, positioned between the actuator and the needle assembly to prevent inadvertent retraction, ensuring the retraction mechanism is disabled until the sheath is removed just before use, incorporating a spring-loaded retraction mechanism with a release button and a tension spring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retraction mechanism is provided to shield the needle within a housing after use, then needlestick injury protection is improved, but inadvertent activation during shipping or unpackaging occurs rendering the device unsuitable for use
Solution Approach 1:
A blocking member is introduced as an intermediary component between the actuator and the retraction mechanism. This blocking member prevents direct interaction between the actuator and the retraction mechanism during shipping and storage, thereby preventing inadvertent activation while maintaining the protective function when properly activated after use
2Reliability
If a blocking member is added to prevent inadvertent actuation, then premature retraction is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it blocks inadvertent actuation of the retraction mechanism during shipping and storage, and it can be removed to enable proper use of the device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in 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
Prevents accidental activation of the retraction mechanism during handling and packaging, ensuring the needle remains safe for use by maintaining the needle in an extended position until the sheath is removed, thereby reducing the risk of needlestick injuries to medical professionals.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-loaded retraction mechanism with a release button and a tension spring
Implementation Method 2
A spring-loaded retraction mechanism with a release button and a tension spring
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
A safety needle device is provided having any elongated housing and a needle assembly movable within the elongate housing. Retraction structure is provided to move the needle assembly from an extended position relative to the elongate housing to a retracted position within the elongate housing. A blocking member is provided to immobilize the retraction structure prior to use. The blocking member is insertable between the retraction structure and the associated elongate housing and/or the needle assembly.