Slidable Fluid Connector for Sterile Multi-Port Leak Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for fluid processing systems, particularly in pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, face challenges such as leaks, complexity, and the need for multiple connections, which are not efficiently addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a first and second hollow connector body with a fluid transfer member allowing slidable movement between two fluid transfer positions, integrated locking mechanisms, and anti-actuation assemblies, enabling efficient fluid flow paths and reducing the number of leak points by allowing multiple connections without complex arrangements of hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors are used for fluid processing, then connections can be established, but leak points increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector body. The connector includes a first port for fluid inlet and a second port for fluid outlet, both within the same connector body, eliminating the need for multiple separate connections and thereby reducing leak points while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides fluid inlet, fluid outlet, and houses a movable member that controls fluid flow direction. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, decreasing leak points and improving overall connection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connections are made for fluid processing, then fluid flow paths can be controlled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable member that can shift between different positions to dynamically control fluid flow paths. The movable member includes a first position blocking the second port and a second position uncovering the second port, allowing flexible flow control without adding complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member is nested within the connector body, with the movable member having a bore that aligns with ports at different positions. This nested arrangement allows multiple flow path configurations within a single compact structure, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If traditional connection methods are used, then connections can be established, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector body with both inlet and outlet ports, reducing the total number of parts needed while maintaining ease of operation. The connector body itself serves as the housing for all flow control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body performs multiple functions: housing the movable member, providing sealing surfaces, defining flow paths, and accommodating both inlet and outlet connections. This consolidation into a single multi-functional part reduces the number of components without compromising operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is provided comprising a first hollow connector body having an inner face including a slot, and an outer face, the first hollow connector body having an aperture passing through the inner face and the outer face; a second hollow connector body having an inner face including a slot, and an outer face, the second hollow connector body having an aperture passing through the inner face and the outer face; and, a fluid transfer member, interposed between the first hollow connector body and the second hollow connector body, wherein the fluid transfer member is slidably arranged in the slot of the inner face of the first hollow body and the slot of the inner face of the second hollow body to provide slidable movement between a first fluid transfer position and a second fluid transfer position.