Transfer Cart Drain Valve Assembly for Automatic Fluid Disposal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid collection and disposal systems for medical transfer carts require human monitoring and intervention for fluid level monitoring and disposal, which can be inefficient and prone to slipping hazards due to the need for manual handling of containers and stoppers.
Innovation Solution
An automated fluid collection and disposal system that uses a poppet valve assembly and flexible conduit to automatically drain fluids from transfer carts when they reach a workstation or storage location, eliminating the need for manual intervention and storage containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual monitoring and disposal of fluid is used, then the system is simpler, but it requires human intervention and creates slipping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic fluid disposal through self-service mechanisms including a float-actuated valve assembly that automatically opens to drain fluid when the collection chamber reaches capacity, and an automated stopper ejection system that propels the stopper outward using spring-loaded or pneumatic/hydraulic actuation, eliminating the need for human intervention entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated control systems. The float-actuated valve assembly substitutes manual plug removal with automatic float-driven valve operation. The stopper ejection mechanism replaces manual stopper removal with spring-loaded or pneumatic/hydraulic actuation systems that automatically propel the stopper outward when fluid level reaches predetermined thresholds
2Ease of operation
If storage containers are used to collect fluid, then fluid can be collected, but it requires manual removal and dumping of containers
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous operational readiness by automatically draining the collection chamber through the float-actuated valve assembly whenever fluid reaches capacity. This continuous automatic drainage eliminates interruptions in cart functionality and removes the need for periodic manual container removal and dumping, allowing the cart to remain in service without time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The collection chamber system performs self-service by automatically detecting when fluid capacity is reached via the float mechanism and autonomously initiating drainage through the valve assembly. The stopper ejection system similarly self-activates to clear the drain opening, eliminating all manual removal and dumping operations
3Extent of automation
If stoppers are used to seal drain openings, then fluid can be contained, but manual removal of stoppers is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual stopper removal with automated mechanical systems. The spring-loaded ejection mechanism uses stored spring energy to automatically propel the stopper outward when activation is required. Alternatively, pneumatic or hydraulic actuation systems use compressed gas or fluid pressure to achieve automatic stopper ejection, eliminating manual intervention entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper ejection system operates on self-service principles where the accumulated fluid pressure or automated sensors trigger the spring-loaded or pneumatic/hydraulic mechanism to eject the stopper automatically when drainage is needed, without requiring human operation
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 efficient and safe automatic fluid disposal without human involvement, reducing the risk of slipping hazards and allowing for use on both manual and robotic transfer carts, with the system automatically draining fluids at designated docking stations.
Implementation Method 1
a valve actuator having a pad at a free end thereof. In use, the pad engages the stop to open the valve assembly and allow fluid to flow therefrom
Implementation Method 2
a flexible conduit fluidly connected to the pipe circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid collection and disposal device for a transfer cart used for transporting wet articles is comprised of a tray disposed below articles to be transported on a transfer cart. The tray has a drain opening. A conduit extends from the drain opening to an exterior side of the transfer cart. A valve assembly is connected to the conduit for controlling fluid flow through the conduit. The valve assembly is comprised of a valve element moveable between a closed, first position restricting flow of fluid through the conduit and an opened, second position allowing flow of fluid through the conduit. An actuator is provided for moving the valve element from the closed position to the open position. The actuator is moveable by physical engagement with an external stop.