Strainer Dish Handle Actuation for Aseptic Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strainer dishes with locking/folding handles occupy valuable space inside the container, impede loading, and require non-ergonomic and effortful aseptic removal, risking instrument damage or staining.
Innovation Solution
A strainer dish with a manually actuatable holding bracket release function and an automatically actuated shifting mechanism, allowing the handle to be arranged in a space-saving locking position and easily transitioned to a removal position using a separate accessible release mechanism, ensuring ergonomic and aseptic handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the handle is positioned inside the strainer dish in the locking position, then the loading volume is maximized, but the handle becomes difficult to reach and actuate manually
Solution Approach 1:
A separate actuating mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the handle. This mechanism includes a holding element positioned on the exterior of the strainer dish that can be easily reached and actuated, which in turn triggers the automatic shifting of the handle from the locking position to the removal position through a drive mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle system is divided into functionally separate components: the handle itself (with gripping bracket) and the actuating mechanism (with holding element and drive mechanism). This segmentation allows the handle to be positioned optimally for space-saving while the actuating mechanism is positioned optimally for ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the handle projects from the strainer dish for easy gripping, then the handle is accessible and ergonomic, but the interior space of the strainer dish is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to be dynamically repositionable between two extreme positions: a locking position where it projects outward for ergonomic gripping and carrying, and a removal position where it is retracted inside the strainer dish to maximize loading volume. The automatic drive mechanism enables smooth transition between these positions.
3Ease of operation
If the handle is pulled upwards for removal, then the strainer dish can be carried, but instruments may be inadvertently lifted or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
Before the handle is pulled upwards for carrying, the actuating mechanism first automatically shifts the handle from the locking position to the removal position, causing the gripping bracket to disengage from the rim. This preliminary action prevents instruments from being inadvertently lifted or damaged during the subsequent upward motion.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is used to secure the handle, then the handle remains stable in position, but additional components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is designed to automatically perform the handle shifting function without requiring additional locking or control components. When the holding element is actuated, the spring-loaded drive mechanism self-actuates to shift the handle, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms or complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A strainer dish for receiving medical items to be disinfected or sterilized includes a receiving container and at least one handle, which, in a removal position projects out of the receiving container in a grippable manner in order to allow the carrying of the strainer dish, and which, in a locking position, is arranged inside the receiving container to allow the loading of the strainer dish, the handle being shifted from the locking position into the removal position by actuation of a releasable holding element.