Slotted Septum Structure for Misaligned Probe Penetration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing septums in storage containers are prone to damage and contamination due to misalignment and variability in probe impact force, leading to issues such as septum tearing, probe bending, and contamination of contents.
Innovation Solution
A slotted septum design with ribs and a thin membrane that deflects the probe to ensure consistent penetration force, minimizing damage and contamination by allowing off-center alignment and reducing the need for excessive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a probe penetrates the septum to access contents, then access to contents is enabled, but damage to the septum and probe occurs due to misalignment and variable impact force
Solution Approach 1:
The septum is segmented into multiple ribs that are spaced apart, creating individual penetration zones. Each rib can independently deflect the probe, distributing the impact force across multiple structural elements rather than concentrating it on a single solid surface. This segmentation allows the probe to penetrate through the spaces between ribs without causing damage to the overall septum structure or the probe itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the septum by introducing ribs with specific geometric characteristics (height, spacing, curvature). These parameter changes create a structure that can dynamically respond to probe impact by deflecting the probe through controlled deformation of the ribs, thereby maintaining consistent penetration force while preventing damage from misalignment or excessive force.
2Productivity
If the probe impacts the septum with variable force, then penetration occurs, but deformation or bending of the probe results
Solution Approach 1:
The ribs on the septum act as a cushioning mechanism that prepares for and absorbs variable impact forces before they can damage the probe. When the probe strikes the septum with variable force, the ribs deflect and absorb the excess energy, providing a consistent resistance that prevents probe bending or deformation while still allowing successful penetration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the septum is penetrated off-center due to misalignment, then access is still possible, but gouging and coring of the septum increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented rib structure creates multiple acceptable penetration points across the septum surface. Whether the probe strikes the center or an off-center location, it will encounter a rib that can deflect it into a valid penetration zone. This segmentation distributes the potential damage across multiple small, controlled interaction points rather than allowing concentrated gouging or coring at a single impact point.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potentially harmful off-center impact into a beneficial deflection mechanism. When the probe strikes off-center, the rib structure guides and redirects the probe into an appropriate penetration path, transforming what would be damaging misalignment into a controlled penetration event that maintains septum integrity while enabling access.
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 slotted septum design prevents damage to the probe and septum while maintaining container integrity, reducing contamination risks and evaporation, and ensuring consistent access to contents.
Implementation Method 1
The ribs are configured to deflect a probe upon contact with the septum and direct the probe to penetrate the membrane
Data Source
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AI summary
Example apparatus including septums and related methods are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a septum that includes a first surface and a membrane coupled to at least a portion of the first surface. In addition, the example septum includes a second surface and ribs extending between the membrane and the second surface.