Syringe Pressure Applicator with Elastomer Overmold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Syringes used with viscoelastic agents in ophthalmic surgery often break due to high expression forces, and prior syringe flange extenders do not accommodate pressurized air delivery, leading to inefficiencies in material expression.
Innovation Solution
A syringe pressure applicator with a stiff thermoplastic body and overmolded soft elastomer ears, featuring a port for connecting pressurized air, and internal and external fittings for sealing and air introduction, distributes pressure evenly to prevent flange damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a flange extender is provided to improve grip on the syringe, then sufficient force can be applied to express the viscoelastic agent, but the syringe still tends to break due to high expression forces and fragile flange
Solution Approach 1:
The flange extender incorporates a cushioning element made of softer material than the main body, creating local quality differentiation. This softer region absorbs and distributes the high expression forces, preventing stress concentration at the fragile glass flange while maintaining sufficient grip and expression capability
Solution Approach 2:
The flange extender is constructed as a composite structure combining a rigid body portion for structural support and grip, with a softer cushioning element (such as elastomer or rubber) integrated into the flange region. This composite design provides both mechanical strength for handling and shock absorption for force distribution
2Ease of operation
If manual activation of a plunger is used to express the viscoelastic agent, then control over the expression process is maintained, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The flange extender incorporates a port that connects to a pressurized air source, enabling pneumatic expression of the viscoelastic agent. This allows automated, rapid delivery of the material without manual plunger operation, significantly improving productivity while maintaining control through pressure regulation
3Ease of operation
If prior art syringe flange extenders are used, then a better grip is provided for manual expression, but they do not provide a connection for pressurized air source
Solution Approach 1:
The flange extender is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both the grip-enhancing flange structure and a port for pressurized air connection. This universal design allows the same device to support both manual and automated expression methods, eliminating the need for separate devices and improving adaptability
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
Enables safe and efficient delivery of viscous materials by distributing pressure evenly across the syringe flange, preventing breakage and allowing for automated expression using pressurized air.
Implementation Method 1
The flange extender may be made from a relatively soft elastomeric material such as silicone rubber, polyurethane, or polyvinylidene fluoride. The elastomeric material provides a comfortable grip on the syringe while also distributing forces applied to the syringe over a larger area, thereby reducing the likelihood of the syringe breaking.
Implementation Method 2
A port extends through the syringe pressure applicator and is connected to friction fittings on either side of the syringe pressure applicator. The external fitting is suitable for connecting to a source of pressurized air.
Data Source
AI summary
A relatively stiff syringe pressure applicator having a pair of ears, the ears are overmolded with a relatively soft elastomer. A port extends through the syringe pressure applicator and is connected to friction fittings on either side of the pressure applicator. The external fitting is suitable for connecting to a source of pressurized air. The other fitting is sized and shaped to receive an elastomeric seal that may be inserted into the open end of a syringe to seal the syringe air tight.