Rotating Hub Infusion Site Single-Handed Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infusion devices are cumbersome, difficult to reorient, and require two hands for placement, with no easy way to remove the tubing without removing the cannula from the skin, making them uncomfortable and complicated to use.
Innovation Solution
An infusion device design featuring a site with a cannula that can be introduced into the subcutaneous layer and a set that can be coupled and uncoupled multiple times, allowing for multiple rotational orientations and single-handed operation, with a locking mechanism for secure attachment and easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the infusion device uses a fixed orientation design, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot be reoriented and requires two hands for placement
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a base unit with the cannula insertion mechanism and a rotating hub for tubing attachment. This segmentation allows the base to remain simple while the hub provides rotational flexibility, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubing hub is designed with rotational freedom, allowing it to dynamically adjust its orientation relative to the base. This dynamic capability enables single-handed operation and reorientation without requiring complex fixed-orientation mechanisms, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the infusion device allows reorientation, then the device is more versatile, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the cannula insertion base from the tubing attachment hub, the patent enables independent rotation of the hub component. This segmentation provides reorientation capability without requiring the entire device structure to be complex, as only the hub needs rotational freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating hub serves multiple functions: it anchors the tubing, allows reorientation of the tubing direction, and provides a secure connection point. This multi-functionality achieves versatility without proportionally increasing complexity, as a single rotating component accomplishes multiple objectives.
3Ease of operation
If the infusion device has a high profile, then the device structure is simplified, but the device is difficult to place and conceal
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing hub is designed to nest closely against the base when not in use, creating a compact integrated unit. This nesting arrangement reduces the overall profile and facilitates concealment under clothing, while the internal rotational mechanism maintains the reorientation capability without increasing external dimensions.
4Ease of operation
If the infusion device requires two hands for placement, then the device is more stable during insertion, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion mechanism is segmented into a stable base unit that remains stationary during insertion and a separate hub that rotates after placement. This allows the base to provide stability during the insertion process while the rotating hub enables easy adjustment and single-handed operation afterward.
Data Source
AI summary
An infusion device including a site and a set for delivery of a substance to a patient. The site can include a cannula that is introduced into a subcutaneous layer of skin of the patient. The set can be coupled to the site by, for example, placing the set over the site and moving the set from an unlocked to a locked position. The substance can then be delivered through the set to the site, and from the site into the patient through the cannula. The set can be oriented at multiple rotational orientations with respect to the site, and can be coupled and uncoupled with the site multiple times.