Ratchet Clamp Sealing with Tamper-Evident Sterile Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the bio-technology, pharmaceutical, and food industries, there is a need for a clamp that can quickly and effectively create fluid-tight connections while maintaining sterile conditions, and existing solutions lack tamper-evidence and adjustable sealing pressure.
Innovation Solution
A clamp with arcuate portions hingedly connected, featuring a ratchet mechanism with asymmetrical teeth and interchangeable pawl modules for customizable tactile feedback, along with a tamper-evident cover to prevent unauthorized access and ensure secure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a ratchet mechanism is used to lock the arcuate portions, then the clamping force is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two separate arcuate portions (first and second portions) that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation allows the ratchet mechanism to lock the portions at different positions along the circumferential direction, providing adjustable clamping force while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the clamping force by allowing the second arcuate portion to be locked at different positions along the first portion. This dynamic positioning capability provides variable clamping force without requiring a complex multi-component mechanism, as the adjustment is achieved through the relative movement and locking of the two arcuate portions.
2Ease of operation
If interchangeable pawl modules are provided for customizable tactile feedback, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with interchangeable pawl modules that can be attached to the second arcuate portion. Different pawl modules provide different tactile feedback characteristics (e.g., different click sensations or engagement feels), allowing users to choose the module that best suits their operational preferences. This universal design approach enables customization of user experience without fundamentally changing the core clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The pawl modules are designed as separate, interchangeable components that can be easily replaced. If a particular pawl module wears out or the user prefers different tactile feedback, the module can be swapped out for another without replacing the entire clamp assembly. This approach allows for customization and replacement of only the feedback-providing component rather than the entire device.
3Reliability
If a tamper-evident cover is added to prevent access to the actuator mechanism, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A tamper-evident cover is provided that can be attached to the first arcuate portion before the clamp is put into service. This cover prevents unauthorized access to the actuator mechanism and the space between the arcuate portions, ensuring that the sterile barrier remains intact and that the clamp has not been tampered with. The cover is designed to be easily removed by authorized personnel when adjustment is needed, balancing protection with accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The tamper-evident cover acts as an intermediary barrier between the external environment and the actuator mechanism. It provides physical protection and tamper evidence without permanently preventing access. The cover can be removed or opened by authorized users who need to adjust or maintain the clamp, while still providing ongoing protection against unauthorized tampering or contamination.
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 clamp provides reliable fluid-tight seals with adjustable clamping force, enhanced user feedback, and tamper-evidence, ensuring sterility and ease of use in sensitive environments.
Implementation Method 1
The pawl comprises a plurality of fingers which are biased into engagement with the teeth of the linear rack
Implementation Method 2
The fingers may be spring biased so that upon engagement of the fingers with the teeth, the spring provides tactile feedback to a user
Data Source
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AI summary
A clamp 2 comprising: a first arcuate portion 4a; a second arcuate portion 4b hingedly connected to the first arcuate portion 4a; and a ratchet mechanism for locking the first and second arcuate portions 4a, 4b in a closed position; wherein the ratchet mechanism comprises a linear rack 18 provided with the second arcuate portion 4b and a pawl 28 provided with the first arcuate portion 4a for receiving the linear rack 18; wherein the linear rack 18 comprises one or more asymmetrical teeth; wherein the pawl 28 comprises a plurality of fingers 36a, 36b which are biased into engagement with the teeth of the linear rack 18.