Ratcheting Luer Lock Connector for Secure IV Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hospital settings, the disconnection of fluid conduits connected to intravenous infusion systems poses risks of unauthorized access to narcotics or exposure to hazardous chemicals, as it is difficult and time-consuming to reconnect them, potentially leading to leakage of hazardous materials.
Innovation Solution
A luer lock connector system with a ratcheting shroud that allows rotation in one direction but not the other, preventing accidental or intentional disconnection by incorporating a shroud with projections that engage with the lock nut and conduit, ensuring secure connection once assembled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the fluid delivering conduit is disconnected from the fluid receiving conduit for replacement of infusion source, then the infusion source can be replaced, but the disconnection presents opportunities for narcotics abuse or exposure to hazardous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheting mechanism is designed to prevent disconnection by creating mechanical resistance in the reverse direction. The shroud's projections engage with the lock nut's projections to allow easy rotation in the tightening direction while blocking rotation in the loosening direction, thereby preliminarily counteracting any attempt to disconnect the conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratcheting mechanism employs asymmetric tooth geometry where the engagement surfaces are designed to allow movement in one direction (tightening) but prevent movement in the opposite direction (loosening). This asymmetry creates a one-way locking effect that enables infusion source replacement while preventing unauthorized disconnection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a ratcheting shroud is added to prevent disconnection, then safety against narcotics abuse and hazardous material leakage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheting shroud integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the locking mechanism and the user interface for tightening the connection. The shroud combines the protective cage structure with the ratcheting teeth, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing overall device complexity despite adding safety functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratcheting mechanism is designed to be self-locking without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. Once the shroud is rotated to tighten the connection, the asymmetric teeth automatically engage to prevent reverse rotation, providing self-service safety functionality that does not increase operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect of the invention, a fluid carrying connector comprising a luer lock connector is provided. At least one projection is defined on, or extending from, a surface of the luer lock connector. A shroud is moveably positioned with respect to the luer lock connector. The shroud comprises at least one projection that is rotatably positionable with the projection of the luer lock connector. In one rotational direction of the shroud, the projection of the shroud rotates the projection of the luer lock connector in the rotational direction. In an opposite rotational direction of the shroud, the projection of the shroud does not rotate the projection of the luer lock connector in the opposite rotational direction.