NPWT Canister Connection with Audible Feedback Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) systems face challenges in quickly and easily connecting and disconnecting the canister from the NPWT unit, and there is a lack of immediate feedback when the canister is securely attached, making the process cumbersome for medical staff.
Innovation Solution
A canister connection system featuring an attachment fixture with a clip and latch mechanism that securely engages with the pump connection wall, providing a fluid seal and immediate feedback through audible clicks when properly connected, along with resilient seals and filters for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple connection interface is used, then the canister can be easily connected and disconnected, but it is difficult to know when the canister is securely attached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an audible click mechanism that provides immediate feedback to the user when the canister is properly secured to the pump unit. This feedback resolves the information loss by notifying the user through sound that the connection is secure, eliminating the need for visual inspection or guessing whether the canister is properly attached.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is used, then the canister connection is reliable, but the canister becomes difficult to attach or remove
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into two independent segments: a snap-fit component for easy initial attachment and a separate locking component for secure fixation. This segmentation allows the user to first easily snap the canister onto the pump unit, then independently engage the locking mechanism to secure it, maintaining both ease of operation and connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates a movable latch that can be easily actuated by the user to transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the locking mechanism to be engaged and disengaged with simple user action, preventing it from becoming a barrier to easy attachment and removal while maintaining secure connection when locked.
3Loss of information
If a complex connection system is used, then immediate feedback on secure attachment is provided, but the system becomes cumbersome for medical staff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the snap-fit connection and locking mechanism into a single integrated assembly where both functions work together in one unified structure. This merging allows the system to provide both easy attachment and secure locking without requiring separate complex systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the feedback and security functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A canister connection system for a negative pressure wound therapy system. The canister connection system includes an attachment fixture removably connected to a pump unit. The attachment fixture includes a first engaging mechanism disposed adjacent its first end configured to engage a corresponding first engaging mechanism of the canister and a second engaging mechanism disposed adjacent its second end for engaging a corresponding second engaging mechanism of the canister for removably connecting the canister to the pump unit.