Tamper-Proof Luer Lock Connector With Restricted Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid transfer systems face issues with accidental disconnection of connectors, leading to spills and uncontrollable air pressure changes, which can cause malfunctions or accidents, especially in hazardous fluid transfers.
Innovation Solution
A tamper-proof luer lock connector with a rotatable luer lock connection port and a coupling/decoupling mechanism that restricts rotation in specific directions to prevent unauthorized access and ensure secure coupling and decoupling, using a cylindrical outer body that covers the connection port to prevent fingertip access and a mechanism to control rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the luer lock connection port is made accessible by fingertips, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connection port is nested within the outer body, creating a layered structure where the port is accessible only through a controlled opening. This nesting allows the port to be protected from accidental access while remaining accessible to operators who know the proper access method, thus improving both reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening in the outer body serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the operator and the connection port. It provides a controlled pathway that requires deliberate action to access the port, preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining operational capability when intended.
2Reliability
If the connection port is protected from access, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection port is nested within the outer body structure, providing protection while maintaining accessibility through a designated opening. This nested configuration ensures the port remains secure from accidental access yet can be reliably accessed by operators following the proper procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening is pre-positioned in a specific location on the outer body, allowing operators to easily locate and access the connection port when intended. This preliminary positioning of the opening eliminates the need for complex search or manipulation, maintaining ease of operation while preserving protection.
3Reliability
If rotation is restricted in all directions, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism employs asymmetric geometry where the coupling element and receiving element are designed with non-symmetric features. This asymmetry allows rotation and coupling in only the correct direction while preventing rotation in opposite directions, thus maintaining reliability without compromising ease of proper operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism allows the connection to be made by rotation in one direction (correct orientation) while preventing rotation in the opposite direction (incorrect orientation). This inversion approach ensures that only proper coupling is permitted, maintaining reliability while keeping the correct operation simple and intuitive.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptor configured for connection to a syringe having an air chamber and a liquid chamber, the adaptor including a liquid channel configured to be in communication with the liquid chamber, an air channel configured to be in communication with the air chamber and at least one filter positioned in the liquid channel.