Syringe Accessory Snap Coupling Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing assemblies for syringes and cartridges are complex to manufacture and require additional parts, with attachment and removal of accessories being cumbersome, especially when using bayonet or threaded fastening methods.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing assembly with a snap coupling mechanism on opposed lateral portions of the syringe or cartridge, utilizing retaining elements that cooperate with corresponding elements on accessories, allowing for easy coupling and uncoupling without twisting, and enabling separate manufacturing and filling of containers for joint dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bayonet or threaded fastening means are used for attaching accessories to syringes or cartridges, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases and additional parts are required
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into two functional parts: a fastening area on the syringe/cartridge and a complementary fastening area on the accessory. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured separately with simpler processes while achieving strong connection when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening function is merged into the basic structural components of the syringe/cartridge and accessory rather than requiring separate fastening parts. The fastening areas are integrated into the existing geometry, eliminating the need for additional bayonet or threaded components.
2Reliability
If bayonet or threaded fastening means are used for attaching accessories, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complicated attachment and removal procedures
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring twisting or threading motions to engage and disengage, the system inverts the operation: accessories are attached by simple linear insertion and removed by applying pressure to release the retaining elements. This reverses the conventional fastening sequence and motion type.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex twisting and threading actions are extracted from the fastening process. Only the essential linear insertion motion and pressure application remain, simplifying the user操作流程 while maintaining reliable connection through the retaining elements.
3Strength
If conventional fastening means are used, then the retention strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional parts and demanding manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening areas serve multiple functions: they provide retention strength through retaining elements, guide alignment during assembly, and enable easy attachment/detachment. This multi-functionality is achieved within the basic structural components, eliminating the need for specialized fastening parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening areas are designed as simple, disposable features integrated into single-use syringes and cartridges. Rather than requiring durable, complex fastening mechanisms, the system uses simple geometric features that can be easily manufactured and discarded with the product.
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing assembly comprises a syringe and at least one accessory, such as a mixer or a closure cap. The syringe defines a first fastening area with a first pair of retaining elements, and the accessory defines a second fastening area with a second pair of retaining elements. The accessory has a housing with two mutually opposite, compressible housing portions. These housing portions are offset in relation to the second pair of retaining elements along the circumference of the housing. The fastening areas are configured such that the accessory is capable to be slipped-on the syringe and removable therefrom without a twisting motion, by applying pressure to the compressible housing portions.