Tamper-Proof Medical Connection Protector with Hinged Enclosure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical connection protectors and securement devices are not effective in preventing accidental disconnection of medical tubes and lines, which can lead to serious health risks and complications, especially in unsupervised patients.
Innovation Solution
A tamper-proof medical connection protector with a combination of first and second cover portions, a hinge, and a tamper-proof locking assembly that forms an internal compartment to securely enclose connection points, featuring a non-intuitive unlocking mechanism and color-coding for safety, along with a securing patch for additional security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple tube holder or securement device is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of preventing disconnection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection protector is divided into multiple segments including a first cover portion, a second cover portion, and a base portion that can be assembled together to form a complete protective enclosure around the connection point
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly is nested within the cover portions, with the locking ball contained in a cavity of the first cover portion and engaging with the locking groove on the second cover portion, creating a compact integrated structure
2Reliability
If a tamper-proof locking assembly is implemented, then the reliability of preventing accidental disconnection is improved, but the ease of operation for unlocking becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional key-based locking mechanism is replaced with a spring-loaded locking ball system that uses mechanical spring force to engage and disengage the locking groove, eliminating the need for keys while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes changes in spring compression force and the position of the locking ball relative to the locking groove to transition between locked and unlocked states, providing both security and controlled accessibility
3Reliability
If the connection protector encloses the connection point completely, then the protection against disconnection is improved, but the visual access to monitor the connection becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cover portions are designed as transparent or translucent thin-walled structures that provide complete enclosure and protection while allowing visual observation of the connection point through the material
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent cover material acts as an intermediary that physically encloses the connection point for protection while simultaneously allowing light to pass through, enabling visual monitoring without compromising security
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure provide a connection protector and a securement system including the connection protector. For example, the connection protector can include a first cover portion and a second cover portion, a combination of which forms an internal compartment configured to enclose a connection point of a first conveying device and a second conveying device. A hinge can be coupled to first sides of the first and second cover portions, enabling the first and second cover portions to be in open or close position. Two openings can be formed on both ends of the first and second cover portions, allowing the first and second conveying devices to pass therethrough, respectively. A first tamper-proof locking assembly attached to second sides of the first and second cover portions, the first tamper-proof locking assembly configured to lock the first cover portion to the second cover portion.