Sharps Disposal Housing With Load-Sensing Lockout
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing syringe disposal containers lack reliable mechanisms to prevent overfilling, securely hold syringes, and ensure safe disposal, often leading to accidental needlestick injuries and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A sharp object disposal housing with a weighted plate to detect maximum load, a tilting tray with a locking mechanism, a touch screen display for real-time status updates, and optional features like a speaker for auditory alerts and a removable mount for easy bag replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rigid plastic or metal containers are used for syringe disposal, then the container structure is simple and inexpensive, but the container cannot securely hold syringes and lacks mechanisms to prevent overfilling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism that automatically engages when the container reaches its maximum fill level. The tray and locking components move from a static to a locked position in response to weight-induced mechanical movement, providing adaptive security without requiring complex electronic controls
Solution Approach 2:
The container utilizes the weight of the disposed syringes themselves to trigger the locking mechanism. As syringes are added to the tray, their cumulative weight automatically activates the locking system, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex sensing electronics
2Measurement precision
If visual fill-level indicators are incorporated into the container, then users can see the fill level, but the indicators may not be accurate due to uneven syringe distribution and are hard to see in low-light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual optical indicators with a mechanical weight-based sensing system. The load cell or spring mechanism directly measures the weight of disposed syringes, providing accurate fill level detection that is independent of light conditions or syringe distribution patterns within the container
Solution Approach 2:
The container incorporates a feedback mechanism where the weight measurement is translated into a clear user notification (such as an alarm or display message) when the maximum fill level is reached. This closed-loop feedback ensures users receive accurate information about container status without needing to visually estimate fill level
3Extent of automation
If mechanically-activated locking systems are used to prevent overfilling, then the system can automatically lock when full, but the systems are prone to mechanical failure or jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex multi-component mechanical locking systems with a simpler weight-activated trigger mechanism. The loading of syringes directly activates the lock through a straightforward mechanical or electronic weight sensor, reducing the number of moving parts and potential failure points while maintaining automatic operation
4Measurement precision
If electronic monitoring systems with sensors are implemented, then the container can accurately track fill level, but the systems become more complex and expensive with potential electrical failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a straightforward weight sensing mechanism using load cells or spring-based mechanical sensors that convert the weight of syringes into an electrical signal. This approach achieves accurate measurement with minimal electronic complexity, avoiding the need for sophisticated sensor arrays or processing systems
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 effectively prevents overfilling, minimizes needlestick injuries, and ensures safe, user-friendly disposal of sharp objects by providing real-time notifications and secure locking, enhancing safety and efficiency in medical settings.
Implementation Method 1
a weighted plate within the base and in electronic communication with a touch screen display positioned on one of the plurality of sidewalls, wherein the weighted plate is configured to detect a maximum load threshold of disposed sharp objects
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sharp object disposal container designed for safe, reliable, and user-friendly disposal of used sharp objects. The container comprises a base, a lid, a plurality of sidewalls defining an interior space, a weighted plate within the base, a touch screen display on one of the sidewalls, and a tray suspended from the underside of the lid. The weighted plate detects the load of disposed sharp objects and triggers auditory alerts to indicate when the container is full. The tray tilts to drop sharp objects into the container and locks when the maximum load threshold is reached, preventing overfilling. This sharp object disposal container provides an improved solution for medical waste disposal in various settings, significantly reducing the risk of accidental needlestick injuries and contamination.