Syringe Adapter Anti-Separation Mechanism for Drug Mixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drug mixing systems do not effectively prevent the premature separation of fluid flow adapter elements from syringe adapter elements, leading to potential fluid leakage and exposure.
Innovation Solution
A syringe adapter element with an anti-separation device, including a ring member with resilient leaves or inwardly facing protrusions, and a non-straight channel mechanism, which applies a force to prevent the separation of the fluid flow adapter element from the syringe adapter element, ensuring that the septa remain in contact until the needle tip returns to its resting position, thereby preventing fluid spillage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fluid flow adapter element is separated from the syringe adapter element, then the adapter elements can be reused or disposed of, but fluid leakage and exposure may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The needle is pre-configured in a retracted position within the syringe adapter element, and the septum is pre-positioned to block the fluid passage. Upon separation, the needle automatically retracts further and the septum automatically blocks the passage, preventing fluid leakage before it can occur. This preliminary protective configuration ensures that the harmful effect of fluid leakage is prevented by advance preparation of the safety mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety mechanism is pre-set so that the needle is initially in a position where it can be quickly retracted and the septum can be quickly positioned to block fluid flow. The mechanical design includes pre-loaded springs and pre-positioned components that enable automatic, rapid response upon separation, ensuring that the protective action occurs immediately without requiring additional user input.
2Productivity
If the needle protrudes outward for fluid communication, then fluid flow is enabled, but the risk of needle stick injuries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle is designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning between a protruding position during fluid communication and a retracted position during separation or idle states. The needle is spring-loaded to automatically retract when not in use, dynamically adjusting its position based on operational needs. This dynamic configuration allows the system to maintain productivity when needed while minimizing harm during non-operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible septum membrane is used to seal the fluid passage when the needle is retracted. The septum can be punctured by the needle when fluid flow is required, then returns to its sealed position when the needle retracts. This flexible barrier provides an additional layer of protection against needle stick injuries while maintaining fluid communication capability during operation.
3Ease of operation
If the adapter elements are designed for easy connection and separation, then ease of operation is improved, but premature separation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface between adapter elements incorporates curved or tapered surfaces that provide natural mechanical engagement. The fluid flow path and needle alignment are designed with curved geometries that guide proper insertion and create friction-based retention. This curved design allows easy connection through simple insertion while preventing premature separation through geometric interlocking and frictional engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical design includes pre-positioned engagement features such as ribs, grooves, or friction surfaces that automatically engage when the adapter elements are connected. These features create inherent mechanical retention forces that prevent premature separation without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex assembly steps, thus maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability.
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 effectively prevents fluid leakage during separation of the adapter elements, ensuring that the fluid remains contained and sterile, enhancing user safety and system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a ring member with a plurality of resilient leaves disposed inside a keeper element
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of inwardly facing protrusions formed on an inner perimeter of the fluid port adapted to apply a friction force against a fluid flow adapter element
Implementation Method 3
at least one non-straight channel formed in one of the fluid flow adapter elements that interfaces with a tooth formed in the other of the syringe adapter and fluid flow adapter elements, wherein a axial force applied to separate the syringe adapter and fluid flow adapter elements is acted against by the tooth moving in the non-straight channel
Data Source
AI summary
A syringe adapter element for use in a drug mixing system including a housing element having a syringe port adapted for fluid connection with a syringe and a fluid port adapted for fluid connection with a fluid flow adapter element, a needle and at least one septum disposed in the housing element, the needle having a sealed orientation wherein the at least one septum blocks fluid flow through the needle and a fluid flow orientation wherein the needle punctures the at least one septum so as to permit fluid to flow through the needle, and an anti-separation device adjacent the fluid port, such that when the syringe adapter element is connected to a fluid flow adapter element, the anti-separation device applies a force that acts against separating the syringe adapter element from the fluid flow adapter element.