Snap-in Sealed Connection Device for Enclosed Volumes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sealed connection devices between closed volumes require rotational movements, which can be cumbersome and unsafe, especially for heavy or bulky containers, and may not ensure secure holding, particularly in environments requiring aseptic or dust-free conditions.
Innovation Solution
A sealed connection device that secures closed volumes without rotating one relative to the other, using a snap-in type holding mechanism with visible and accessible actuating means, ensuring secure mechanical holding and easy operation, and includes a control ring for activating the connection without causing one volume to pivot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rotational movement is used to secure the container to the flange, then the connection can be established, but the operation becomes cumbersome and unsafe for heavy or bulky containers
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the container to achieve connection, the patent inverts the approach by using a snap-in mechanism where the container is pushed axially into position and held by mechanical interlocking elements (protrusions and recesses). This eliminates the rotational movement requirement while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the rotational bayonet connection mechanism with a linear snap-in mechanism using elastic elements and mechanical interlocks. The elastic elements provide both the holding force and the visual indication, substituting the complex rotational mechanical system with a simpler linear action system.
2Reliability
If rotational movement is used to secure the container, then connection is achieved, but the contents may tilt causing contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the connection approach from rotational to linear axial movement. By pushing the container straight into position rather than rotating it, the contents remain stable and horizontal, eliminating the tilting effect that causes contamination risk during connection.
3Force
If magnetization is used for holding, then holding force can be achieved, but the magnets have poor resistance to decontamination agents and require specific treatments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic holding system with a purely mechanical snap-in system using elastic elements and mechanical interlocks (protrusions and recesses). This mechanical system has excellent resistance to decontamination agents and does not require special magnet protection treatments, while still providing sufficient holding force for heavy containers.
4Force
If magnetization means are used for holding, then holding can be achieved, but the alignment requirement makes operation laborious and the magnets are not visible to the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual indicators (colored zones or markings on the flange and container) to guide proper alignment during the snap-in operation. The elastic elements themselves may provide visual feedback through their deformed state, making the alignment process intuitive and eliminating the laborious alignment requirement of magnetic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the hidden magnetic alignment system with a visible mechanical guide system using protrusions, recesses, and visual indicators. The mechanical interlocking elements provide inherent alignment guidance that is visible and tactile, eliminating the need for precise magnetic alignment that operators cannot see or feel.
5Force
If magnetic fields are present during transfer, then holding can be achieved, but particles may be generated or fixed increasing contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic field-based holding system with a mechanical snap-in system using elastic elements and physical interlocks. This eliminates magnetic fields entirely from the transfer process, preventing particle generation or fixation that would increase contamination risk, while maintaining secure holding of the container.
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 provides a secure, easy-to-use, and safe connection method that prevents contamination and facilitates the transfer of sensitive items, improving operational efficiency and safety by eliminating the need for rotational movements and ensuring secure sealing without relying on magnetization.
Implementation Method 1
a device for holding the flange of one of the closed volumes on the other closed volume, the device being of the snap-in type carried by one of the enclosures
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4C
AI summary
Device providing fluidtight connection between a first and a second enclosed volume which enclosed volumes are closed off by doors, - first means (A) of securing the first and second flange to one another, - second means of securing the second door and the first door in a fluidtight manner, - means of disconnecting the second door from the second flange, - third means for releasing the first door with respect to the first flange (18), - fourth means for opening a passage between the first and the second enclosed volume and means for controlling the first, second, third and fourth means to allow fluidtight connection without rotation of one of the enclosed volumes, said device also comprising a device (34) for holding the second enclosed volume with respect to the first enclosed volume by clip-fastening prior to the securing by the first securing means.