Syringe Needle Protective Cap Segmented Grip Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective caps for syringe needles lack an effective and comfortable grip, leading to potential user discomfort and difficulty in handling during removal and repositioning.
Innovation Solution
The protective cap features first and second gripping surface elements arranged circumferentially on a main body, with a larger diameter distal portion and smaller diameter proximal portion, respectively, along with through openings for sterilization, and a secondary gas-permeable body for even ethylene oxide distribution during sterilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If gripping surface elements are arranged on the protective cap, then grip efficiency is improved, but the cap structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping surface elements are segmented into two distinct groups: first gripping surface elements on the distal portion and second gripping surface elements on the proximal portion. This segmentation allows each group to serve specific functional purposes while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different gripping surface elements are placed at different locations (distal and proximal portions) with different characteristics. The first elements provide primary grip during removal, while the second elements provide alternative grip positions, creating local quality variations that improve overall ease of operation without uniformly complicating the entire structure.
2Ease of operation
If the distal cylindrical portion has a larger diameter, then gripping efficiency is improved, but the cap becomes more prone to bending
Solution Approach 1:
The cap employs varying diameters at different locations: the distal cylindrical portion has a larger diameter for efficient gripping, while the proximal cylindrical portion has a smaller diameter to maintain structural strength and resistance to bending. This local quality differentiation optimizes both gripping efficiency and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is divided into two cylindrical portions with different diameters. The distal portion (larger diameter) handles the gripping function, while the proximal portion (smaller diameter) provides structural support, segmenting the functional requirements to resolve the contradiction between grip efficiency and bending resistance.
3Ease of operation
If multiple gripping surface elements are distributed circumferentially, then grip comfort is improved for various finger positions, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping surface elements are segmented into two groups located at different axial positions (distal and proximal portions). This segmentation reduces the stringent circumferential spacing requirements compared to a single circumferential ring, as each group can be independently positioned with less precision while still providing comprehensive grip coverage for various finger placements.
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 design enhances grip efficiency and safety, ensuring easy handling and repositioning of the cap while maintaining structural integrity and simplifying production, reducing the risk of bending during use.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary gas-permeable body for even ethylene oxide distribution during sterilization
Data Source
AI summary
A protective cap for a syringe needle includes a main body which extends circumferentially about a main axis and having a predetermined axial extension, wherein the main body comprises first gripping surface elements arranged at a first cylindrical portion of the main body and distributed throughout the first cylindrical portion circumferentially spaced apart from each other.