Sharps Container Blocking Member and Dual-Action Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sharps containers face issues with needles becoming wedged due to a blocking mechanism, are not suitable for short needles, and have latch mechanisms that are prone to breakage and inadvertent activation.
Innovation Solution
A sharps container design featuring a blocking member that only blocks the opening when a needle is present, a dual-action latch mechanism without protruding tabs, and a transverse flex latch mechanism that limits movement and prevents accidental opening, ensuring safe and efficient needle storage and disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a blocking member is used to prevent needles from falling out, then needle containment is improved, but needle insertion is hindered due to jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. It can block the aperture when the container is closed to prevent needle ejection, and move away to allow needle insertion when the container is open, thus resolving the contradiction between containment and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member automatically performs its function based on the container's state. When the container is closed, the blocking member is positioned to block the aperture; when opened for needle insertion, it moves away automatically without requiring manual intervention, providing self-service functionality that resolves the operational conflict
2Reliability
If a blocking member is used to prevent needles from falling out, then needle containment is improved, but short needles cannot be properly stored
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member's movable design allows it to be positioned appropriately for different needle lengths. Longer needles can push the blocking member fully away during insertion, while short needles can still be inserted as the blocking member moves out of the way, accommodating various needle lengths while maintaining containment when closed
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism is used to secure the container, then containment security is improved, but the latch is prone to breakage and accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding tab that was prone to breakage has been removed from the design. The latch mechanism has been reconfigured to eliminate this vulnerable component while maintaining the security function through alternative structural arrangements that are more durable and less susceptible to accidental activation
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 solution prevents needle jamming, accommodates short needles, and enhances the durability and safety of the container by eliminating the risk of accidental opening, ensuring reliable operation and easy maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The blocking member includes a ball movable between a blocking position, where the ball blocks the apertures of the box, and an unblocking position, where the ball does not block the aperture of the box
Implementation Method 2
The box maybe urged into the open position by spring action
Implementation Method 3
the force of gravity forces the needle toward the openings and possibly through the openings
Data Source
AI summary
A process of manufacturing a sharps container and a method of storing needles are disclosed. The sharps container utilizes a blocking member which does not interfere with a needle being inserted into the sharps container, and a latch mechanism which does not require a protruding tab. The latch mechanism requires at least a dual action to open the sharps container, and limits the movement required for opening the sharps container.