Screwing Assembly for Syringe Plugs with Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screwing assemblies for closing plugs on syringes require high coupling forces, which can damage the plug and syringe, and lack flexibility, especially when using threaded plugs, making it difficult to assemble new needles safely and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A screwing assembly with a vibrating plate and shock absorber system, coupled with an electromagnetic actuator and stop devices, allows for the precise and controlled screwing of tamperproof plugs onto syringes with externally threaded open ends, using a robotized arm and torque-controlled motor for alignment and insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high coupling force is used to secure the closing plug onto the syringe, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the closing plug and syringe may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the coupling mechanism from direct high-force engagement to threaded screwing with controlled torque. The externally threaded open end of the containment cylinder engages with corresponding threads on the closing plug, allowing secure attachment through rotational motion rather than linear force, thereby achieving reliable sealing without damaging the components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic screwing mechanism where the closing plug is rotated onto the syringe rather than being forced linearly. The electromagnetic actuator provides controlled rotational motion, converting linear movement into rotational threading engagement, which distributes the coupling force over multiple thread engagements rather than concentrating it at a single point
2Ease of manufacture
If snap-locking mechanism is used to attach the closing plug, then the assembly process is simple, but the flexibility to use different plug types (e.g., threaded plugs) is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the closing plug with a universal interface that can accommodate different attachment mechanisms. The plug structure includes both a snap-lock interface and an externally threaded portion, allowing the same plug design to be secured through either snap-locking or screwing methods, thereby providing versatility in attachment options while maintaining assembly simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the closing plug into distinct functional portions: a head portion for engagement, a threaded portion for screwing attachment, and a sealing portion. This segmentation allows the plug to interface with different attachment mechanisms (snap-lock or threading) while maintaining a unified sealing function, enhancing adaptability without complicating the overall assembly process
3Reliability
If high coupling force is applied to secure the plug, then the sealing is more secure, but the risk of damaging the plug and syringe increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a shock absorber device between the hopper and the plate to cushion the impact when plugs are deposited. This pre-positioned cushioning element absorbs the shock of plug placement, preventing damage to both the plugs and the syringe during the assembly process while maintaining secure sealing through the subsequent controlled screwing action
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary threaded structure between the closing plug and the containment cylinder. Instead of direct high-force engagement, the threaded interface acts as a mediator that distributes and gradually engages the coupling force through multiple thread contacts, securing the sealing while minimizing the risk of damage to either component
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
This solution reduces the risk of damage during plug assembly, enables the use of threaded plugs, and enhances the flexibility and safety of the process, ensuring secure sealing while maintaining the integrity of the syringe and plug.
Implementation Method 1
it is coupled in sliding manner to the frame 8 to move with respect to the frame 8 and under the bias of an actuating device 15, with a reciprocating rectilinear motion in a substantially horizontal direction 16 transversal to direction 14
Implementation Method 2
Device 13 comprises, in the case in point, four elastic elements 17 mounted between frame 8 and plate 10 at the vertexes of the plate 10 itself
Data Source
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AI summary
A closing plug (2) is screwed onto the threaded open end (6) of a syringe (3) by a screwing assembly provided with a pocket (31) adapted to receive the closing plug (2) from a hopper (9) which houses in its inside a plurality of closing plugs (2), a support device (29) of the syringe (3), and an actuating device (35) for moving the pocket (31) and the support device (29) with respect to each other with a roto-translating movement about and along a longitudinal axis (4) of the syringe (3) so as to screw the closing plug (2) onto the open end (6) of the syringe (3) itself.