Rotating Lock Connector Assembly for Ophthalmic Gas Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ophthalmic surgical procedures face challenges in ensuring proper and secure connection of fluid supply lines to surgical consoles, which can lead to inconsistent fluid flow and increased safety risks due to potential disconnections during procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of a connector assembly for surgical consoles that includes a connector and a receiver, designed to securely and temporarily lock together, reducing direct handling of gas supply lines and maintaining sterility. The assembly features a locking mechanism that requires intentional rotation to disconnect, ensuring secure connection during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple connector design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but connection reliability deteriorates due to potential disconnections
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions from an unlocked to a locked state through rotation. The locking tab moves from an initial position where it can be inserted to a locked position where it engages with the receiver, providing secure connection while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a simplified rotational locking mechanism. The light post and light pipe aperture interaction provides a straightforward visual confirmation system that eliminates the need for complex mechanical indicators or adjustment mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If direct handling of gas supply lines is increased, then ease of operation improves, but sterility is compromised due to increased contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly divides the system into distinct segments: a non-sterile outer connector portion that is handled and a sterile inner tube portion that remains protected. The flange creates a clear separation zone, allowing operators to manipulate the connector without touching the sterile supply line, thus maintaining sterility while improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary component between the non-sterile environment and the sterile gas supply line. By providing a dedicated interface with the flange and locking mechanism, it eliminates the need for direct handling of the sterile tube, reducing contamination risk while maintaining operational ease
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes dynamic rotation to transition from an inserted state to a locked state. The locking tab and light post are positioned to engage naturally during rotation, providing secure locking without requiring additional actuators, springs, or complex mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs optical indicators (light posts and light pipe apertures) to provide visual confirmation of the locked state. When the connector is properly locked, light transmitted through the light pipe is blocked or altered by the light posts, providing clear visual feedback without adding mechanical complexity to the locking mechanism itself
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to port connector assemblies for delivering infusion gases during ophthalmic surgeries and procedures. In some embodiments, the connector assembly includes a connector for a surgical console and a corresponding receiver for connecting the connector to the surgical console.