Sterile Syringe Tray with Interlocking Coupling Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the medical industry, there is a need for sterile syringe packaging that allows for easy connection and disconnection of syringes without breaking the sterile field, especially when multiple syringes of the same size and type are required for different fluid injections, and existing solutions lack efficient methods for achieving this without additional fasteners.
Innovation Solution
A tray system with interlocking coupling members, such as recesses and protrusions, is designed to connect and disconnect containers without additional fasteners, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining sterility, using a unitary moldable polymer construction and thermoforming processes to create a seamless integration of coupling members with the container walls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sterile syringe packaging is used, then sterility is maintained, but connection and disconnection of multiple syringes requires breaking the sterile field or uses additional fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into multiple individual container units, each containing a single syringe. These segmented containers can be connected through coupling members to form a chain, allowing individual syringes to be accessed without breaking the sterile field of unused syringes. The segmentation enables modular assembly while maintaining sterility integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple container units are merged into a connected chain through coupling members that interface between adjacent containers. This merging allows multiple syringes to be packaged together in a single sterile field while maintaining individual accessibility. The coupling members enable mechanical connection without requiring additional fasteners or breaking sterility.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple syringes are pre-packaged together, then storage efficiency is improved, but the sterile field of unused syringes may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Each syringe is contained in its own separate container unit, creating discrete sterile compartments. This segmentation ensures that when containers are connected, only the specific container being accessed is opened, while all other containers remain sealed and sterile. Multiple syringes can be stored together without compromising individual sterility.
Solution Approach 2:
Coupling members serve as intermediary elements that connect adjacent container units without requiring penetration or opening of the sterile barriers. The coupling members interface with the container structure externally, allowing mechanical connection while maintaining the sterile integrity of the sealing surfaces and syringe containers.
3Strength
If additional fasteners are used to connect containers, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and sterility requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling members are integrated directly into the container structure, merging the connection function with the container body. This integration eliminates the need for separate fasteners, reducing component count and assembly complexity. The coupling members are formed as part of the container wall structure, providing sufficient connection strength without additional elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling members are designed to self-connect through simple interlocking mechanisms that require no additional fastening operations. The interlocking geometry allows containers to connect to each other through straightforward engagement, eliminating the need for separate fastening steps or additional components. The system connects itself without external intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A container for packaging associated articles includes coupling members fashioned on one or more sides of the container for interconnecting a plurality of containers together. The coupling members may be integrally fashioned with the containers and may comprise raised ribs and recessed channels for press fitting the adjacently placed containers together.