【0001】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造に関するものであり、詳しくは、簡単な構造であって且つ輸液容器の口部に対して液漏れのない状態で確実に樹脂針を装着し得る輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造に関するものである。
【0002】
【従来の技術】
昨今、輸液容器の使用にあたっては、輸液取出用の針の誤った再使用による感染事故の防止や針による皮膚からの感染事故の防止を目的として、金属製の針の使用を規制し、使い捨ての樹脂製の針の普及が推進されつつある。
【0003】
しかしながら、エラストマー等で構成された従来の輸液容器の口部の栓体に樹脂針を適用した場合、樹脂針自体の太さや栓体の材質に起因した栓体と樹脂針の密着性の問題から、樹脂針の装着部分において液漏れを生じ易いと言う問題がある。従って、樹脂針の普及においては、輸液容器の口部に対して十分なシール性を有し、また、低コストで製造し得る簡単な構造が望まれる。
【0004】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
本発明は、上記の実情に鑑み、樹脂針と共に、樹脂針に適した輸液容器の口部の構造を種々検討の結果なされたものであり、その目的は、簡単な構造であって且つ輸液容器の口部に対して液漏れのない状態で確実に樹脂針を装着し得る輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造を提供することにある。
【0005】
【課題を解決するための手段】
上記の課題を解決するため、本発明に係る輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造は、輸液容器の口部に溶着された蓋部材と当該蓋部材に装着される輸液取出用の樹脂針とから構成される輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造であって、前記蓋部材は、略円筒状の筒部の先端が封止部によって封止され且つ当該封止部に前記樹脂針の圧入によって破れる脆弱部が設けられた針装着穴を備え、当該針装着穴の筒部の基端側内周面には拡径された円環状の係合溝が設けられ、しかも、前記針装着穴の筒部の内周面は先端側に向かうに従い漸次縮径されたテーパー面とされ、前記樹脂針は、先端部が先細の針先に形成されて後端部がカテーテル嵌合部とされた略細長の管状体として構成され且つその中間部に把持部としての鍔を備え、当該鍔よりも先端側の樹脂針胴部の鍔近傍には前記蓋部材の針装着穴の係合溝に密接に嵌合する円環状の拡径部が設けられ、しかも、前記樹脂針胴部の外周面は前記蓋部材の針装着穴の筒部に密接に嵌合するテーパー面とされていることを特徴とする。
【0006】
すなわち、上記の樹脂針装着構造において、樹脂針の鍔が蓋部材に突き当たるまで蓋部材の針装着穴に樹脂針を押込むと、封止部の脆弱部が針先によって破れ、樹脂針先端の針先が容器本体内側に突出する。その際、針装着穴の筒部の係合溝に対し、樹脂針胴部の拡径部が密接に嵌合するため、針装着穴において樹脂針を一定の位置に保持でき且つ装着した樹脂針の脱落を防止できる。そして、針装着穴の筒部の内周面と樹脂針胴部の外周面とがテーパー面に形成され且つ互いに密接に嵌合するため、針装着穴と樹脂針で高い気密性を発揮し、樹脂針装着後の輸液の漏れを有効に防止し得る。
【0007】
【発明の実施の形態】
本発明に係る輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造の実施形態を図面に基づいて説明する。図1は、輸液容器の口部に樹脂針が装着された状態の一例を一部破断して示す部分的な側面図である。図2は、輸液容器の口部に樹脂針が装着された状態の他の例を一部破断して示す部分的な側面図である。図3〜図5は、輸液容器の口部に溶着される蓋部材の形状例を示す縦断面図である。図6は、蓋部材における針装着穴の構造例を示す縦断面図であり、図7は、針装着穴先端の封止部における脆弱部の形状例を示す底面図である。また、図8は、樹脂針の構造例を一部破断して示す側面図であり、図9は、樹脂針の鍔の形状例を示す平面図である。以下、実施形態の説明においては、輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造を「装着構造」と略記する。
【0008】
図1及び図2は輸液容器を転倒させた使用状態を示しており、図示する様に、本発明の装着構造は、輸液容器の口部(11)に溶着された蓋部材(2)と当該蓋部材に装着される輸液取出用の樹脂針(合成樹脂製針)(4)とから構成される。本発明において、輸液容器としては、ブロー成形によって口部(11)が容器本体(1)と一体に成形された変形可能な薄肉容器の他、フィルム製袋によって形成された容器本体に対して射出成形された口部を溶着して成るいわゆる輸液バッグが含まれる。何れの形態の容器においても、口部(11)は、剛性を高めるために容器本体(1)よりも圧肉に形成され、上記の蓋部材(2)を確実に溶着するため、環状の立上り部の上端(図面では下端)にフランジ部(12)を設けて構成される。
【0009】
輸液容器の構成材料としては、プロピレンの単独重合体とプロピレンを主体とするオレフィンの共重合体とを含有する樹脂組成物、低密度ポリエチレンとオレフィン共重合体とを含有する樹脂組成物などが挙げられる。そして、一体成形型の輸液容器における容器本体(1)は、例えば、角部が円弧状に形成された略方形または略楕円形もしくは略円形の横断面形状(中心線に直交する断面形状)を備え、かつ、底部側が若干絞られた縦長容器として構成される。また、容器本体(1)の肩部は、緩やかな曲率で上記の口部(11)に連続する曲面に形成されてもよい。
【0010】
口部(11)に溶着される蓋部材(2)は射出成形によって一体的に形成される。蓋部材(2)の構成材料としては、ポリエチレンとポリプロピレン系ポリマーが代表的である。ポリエチレンとしては、低密度ポリエチレン、線状低密度ポリエチレン、低密度ポリエチレンと線状低密度ポリエチレンの混合物、低密度ポリエチレンとメタタロセン触媒を使用して得られる低密度ポリエチレンとの混合物、低密度ポリエチレンと高密度ポリエチレンの混合物、高密度ポリエチレン、高密度ポリエチレンとメタタロセン触媒を使用して得られる低密度ポリエチレンとの混合物、低密度ポリエチレンとポリオレフィン系エラストマーの混合物などが挙げられる。また、ポリプロピレン系ポリマーとしては、ポリプロピレンの他、ポリプロピレンとメタタロセン触媒を使用して得られるポリプロピレンの混合物、オレフィン系特殊共重合軟質樹脂を含むポリプロピレンターポリマー、ポリプロピレンとポリオレフィン系エラストマーの混合物などが挙げられる。
【0011】
蓋部材(2)は針装着穴(3)を設けて構成される。具体的には、図3〜図5に示す様に、蓋部材(2)は、略皿状に形成され且つその底面相当部位(各図 における上端の部位)に針装着穴(3)が設けられた針装着部(21)と、当該針装着部の外周囲に張出された溶着用のフランジ部(22)とを備えている。蓋部材(2)は、剛性、成形容易性などの観点から、後述する針装着穴(3)を含め、種々の形状に形成し得る。
【0012】
例えば、図3(a)及び(b)に示す様に、蓋部材(2)は、略皿状の針装着部(21)の高さの略中間の部分、すなわち、皿の側壁に相当する部分の略中間の部分にフランジ部(22)を張出して形成され、フランジ部(22)から立ち下がった針装着部(21)の短軸円筒状の高さ部分(皿の側壁相当部分)が口部(11)に対する嵌合部(23)として構成される。上記の様に、蓋部材(2)の一端側に嵌合部(23)が設けられている場合には、容器本体(1)の口部(11)に蓋部材(2)を溶着する際、口部(11)に蓋部材(2)を容易に組み付けることが出来る。なお、図3(a)に示す蓋部材(2)と図3(b)に示す蓋部材(2)とは、針装着部(21)の直径、肉厚の他、口部(11)と反対側の針装着部(21)の端面に後述のシール(5)を溶着するための溶着部(25)の配置が異なる。
【0013】
更に、蓋部材(2)は、構造を簡素化するため、上記の嵌合部(23)を備えていない形状に形成されてもよい。具体的には、図4(c)及び(d)に示す様に、蓋部材(2)は、略皿状の針装着部(21)の高さ部分、すなわち、皿の側壁相当部分の端縁部にフランジ部(22)を張出して形成される。図4(c)に示す蓋部材(2)と図4(d)に示す蓋部材(2)とは、針装着部(21)の肉厚の他、上記の場合と同様に、口部(11)と反対側の針装着部(21)の端面に後述のシール(5)を溶着するための溶着部(25)の配置が異なる。また、図5(e)及び(f)に示す蓋部材(2)は、各々、後述する針装着穴(3)の構造を除き、図4(c)及び(d)に示す蓋部材(2)と略同様の構造を備えている。
【0014】
蓋部材(2)は、図3〜5に示す様に、上記の樹脂針(4)が装着される特定の針装着穴(3)を備えている。針装着穴(3)は、略円筒状の筒部(31)の先端が封止部(32)によって封止され且つ当該封止部に樹脂針(4)の圧入によって破れる脆弱部(33)が設けられて成る。針装着穴(3)は、樹脂針(4)の先端側の大きさに略倣って設計されるが、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の内径は、樹脂針(4)との密着性を高めるため、後述する樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の外径よりも僅かに小径に設計される。例えば、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の内径は3〜5mm程度、筒部(31)の深さは3〜6mm程度であり、通常、筒部(31)の肉厚は0.5〜1.5mmである。また、樹脂針(4)の挿入操作を容易にするため、針装着穴(3)の入口側(筒部(31)の開口部近傍)は、図示する様に適宜拡径されていてもよい。
【0015】
蓋部材(2)は、針装着穴(3)の先端側の封止部(32)の構造により、例えば2つの態様が挙げられる。図1に示す装着構造は、図3及び図4に示す第1の態様の蓋部材(2)を使用した構造であり、図2に示す装着構造は、図5に示す第2の態様の蓋部材(2)を使用した構造である。
【0016】
図3及び図4に示す蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)は、図6(a)に拡大して示す様に、略円筒状の筒部(31)の先端を略円錐状の封止部(32A)によって封止されて成る。そして、斯かる封止部(32A)において、脆弱部(33)は、図7(a)に示す様に、例えば、封止部(32A)の先端を中心に放射状に伸長された十文字状の溝によって構成される。上記の様な封止部(32A)を有する針装着穴(3)は、樹脂針(4)を挿入した場合、その押込み力を封止部(32A)の先端一点に集中させることが出来るため、小さな押込み力で脆弱部(33)を破ることが出来る。
【0017】
一方、図5に示す蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)は、図6(b)に拡大して示す様に、円筒状の筒部(31)の先端を略円盤状の封止部(32B)によって封止されて成る。そして、斯かる封止部(32B)において、脆弱部(33)は、図7(b)に示す様に、例えば、封止部(32B)の中央に設けられた円弧状の溝と当該溝から放射状に5方向に伸長された横溝とから構成される。あるいは、脆弱部(33)は、図7(c)に示す様に、封止部(32B)の中央からU字状に2方向に伸長された湾曲する溝とV字状に2方向に伸長された直線的な溝とから構成される。上記の様な封止部(32B)を有する針装着穴(3)は、ほぼ有底円筒状に形成するだけであり成形が容易である。図7に示す上記の各封止部(32)の肉厚、すなわち、溝の部分の厚さは、通常は0.2〜0.6mmであり、また、各封止部(32)の幅、すなわち、溝の部分の幅は、通常は0.3〜1.0mmである。
【0018】
また、図6(a)及び(b)に示す様に、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の基端側内周面には、挿入された樹脂針(4)を所定位置で固定するため、拡径された円環状の係合溝(34)が設けられる。図に例示した針装着穴(3)において、係合溝(34)は1箇所に設けられているが、斯かる係合溝(34)は複数箇所設けられてもよい。通常、係合溝(34)の内径は4〜8mm程度である。上記の様に、針装着穴(3)に上記の係合溝(34)を設け且つ樹脂針(4)に後述の拡径部(44)を設けることにより、樹脂針(4)の挿入代を規定でき、後述の筒部(31)のテーパー面と樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)のテーパー面とを確実に密着させることが出来る。
【0019】
更に、本発明においては、樹脂針(4)との気密性を確保するため、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の内周面は、先端側に向かうに従い漸次縮径されたテーパー面とされる。すなわち、筒部(31)の内周面は、後述の樹脂針(4)の胴部に密着する面に形成されている。筒部(31)のテーパー面のテーパー角度(θ1)は、樹脂針(4)との嵌合強度を高めて気密性を高めると言う観点から、5度以下、好ましくは1〜5度に設定される。
【0020】
また、本発明において、針装着部(21)の内側に突出する上記の針装着穴(3)は、その封止部(32)の先端が針装着部(21)の端縁から突出しない長さに形成されているのが好ましい。具体的には、図3〜図5に示す様に、針装着穴(3)は、略皿状に形成された蓋部材(2)の針装着部(21)における口部(11)側の端縁に対し、封止部(32)先端が距離(Δs)だけ内側に後退した長さに設定される。通常、針装着部(21)端縁と封止部(32)先端との距離(Δs)は0.5〜3.0mmである。上記の様に、針装着穴(3)の封止部(32)の先端が針装着部(21)の端縁から突出しない状態に形成されている場合には、作製した蓋部材(2)を製造工程で搬送する際、封止部(32)の先端が搬送機器などに接触することがなく、蓋部材(2)の汚染を低減することが出来る。
【0021】
更に、図3〜図5に示す様に、樹脂針(4)の装着前において、蓋部材(2)の外側の端面、すなわち、蓋部材(2)の針装着部(21)の外表面には、針装着穴(3)を被覆する汚染防止用のシール(5)が溶着される。シール(5)は、針装着穴(3)の開口部分を及びその周辺部を被覆するものであり、通常はガスバリヤー性フィルム又はアルミニウム蒸着フィルムによって構成され、容器本体(1)の口部(11)と反対側の針装着部(21)の端面に設けられた膨出部(25)に溶着される。膨出部(25)は、図3(a)、図4(c)及び図5(e)に示す様に、針装着部(21)の端面の外周部に1箇所に設けられてもよいし、また、図3(b)、図4(d)及び図5(f)に示す様に、針装着部(21)の端面の外周部と針装着穴(3)の周囲との2箇所に設けられてもよい。
【0022】
一方、蓋部材(2)に装着される図1及び図2に示す樹脂針(4)は、射出成形によって一体的に形成される。樹脂針(4)の構成材料としては、ポリプロピレン、ABS樹脂、ポリエチレンテレフタノールやポリカーボネート及びこれらの共重合体を含むポリアリレート、ポリエチレンナフタレート、ポリカーボネート、ポリアクリルニトリル、ポリフェニレンスルフィド、シクロオレフィンポリマー等が挙げられる。
【0023】
図8に示す様に、樹脂針(4)は、略細長の管状体であり、その先端部が先細の針先(41)として形成され且つ後端部がカテーテル嵌合部(42)として形成される。後述の鍔(45)、拡径部(44)及び拡径部(46)を除く樹脂針(4)の外径は4〜6mm程度に設定され、また、針先(41)からカテーテル嵌合部(42)まで貫通する樹脂針(4)の流路の内径(針先(41)の部位を除く部位の内径)は1.0〜4.0mm程度に設定される。
【0024】
ところで、蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)に樹脂針(4)を装着する場合には、針先(41)によって封止部(32)の脆弱部(33)を破断し、筒部(31)の先端から針先(41)を容器本体(1)側に突出させる。そこで、樹脂針(4)の針先(41)は、脆弱部(33)に対する破断力を集中させるため、適度に尖った状態に形成される。
【0025】
具体的には、樹脂針(4)の針先(41)の先端は、曲率半径が0.15〜2.0mmの球面に形成される。針先(41)の先端の曲率半径を上記の範囲に設定する理由は次の通りである。上記の曲率半径が0.15mm未満の場合は、針先(41)先端の強度が不足し、脆弱部(33)を破る際に変形する虞がある。しかも、指先などの人体に刺さる虞があり、感染症防止の観点からも好ましくない。一方、曲率半径が2.0mmを越えている場合には、加圧力が分散するため、脆弱部(33)を破るのにより大きな押込み力が必要となり操作性に欠ける。
【0026】
図8(a)、(b)に示す樹脂針(4)は、針先(41)が比較的先鋭な円錐状に形成された針であり、図8(c)に示す樹脂針(4)は、針先(41)が比較的緩やかな曲面の卵形に形成された針である。そして、図3及び図4に示す蓋部材(2)には、図8(a)〜(c)の各態様の樹脂針(4)を適用できる。また、図5に示す蓋部材(2)には、図8(a)又は(b)の態様の樹脂針(4)を適用するのが好ましい。
【0027】
針先(41)の先端の針先孔(41c)は、図1、図2又は図8(a)、(b)に示す様に、略楕円形または滴形に形成されて針先(41)の先端に2〜3箇所設けられる。あるいは、針先孔(41c)は、図8(c)に示す様に、スリット状に形成されて針先(41)の先端に2〜4箇所設けられる。
【0028】
樹脂針(4)の中間部には、把持部として機能すると共に、蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)に対する挿入深さを規定する鍔(45)が備えられている。鍔(45)の位置は、鍔(45)から先端側の樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の長さが所定の長さとなる位置、すなわち、針装着穴(3)の先端の封止部(32)を針先(41)で突き破った際に針先(41)が容器本体(1)側に十分に突出する長さとなる位置に設けられる。
【0029】
鍔(45)は、樹脂針(4)を取扱う場合の把持部として機能する必要がある。すなわち、蓋部材(2)に樹脂針(4)を装着する場合には鍔(45)を指先で把持して装着する。そこで、図9に示す様に、樹脂針(4)の鍔(45)の外周部の少なくとも一部には指先をあてがうための直線的な切欠き部(45p)が設けられる。すなわち、鍔(45)は、例えば、図9(a)に示す様に、円盤体の外周部に切欠き部(45p)を1箇所設けた形状、または、図9(b)に示す様に、円盤体の外周部に切欠き部(45p)を2箇所平行に設けた形状に形成される。あるいは、図9(c)に示す様に、扇形の板状体の円弧部に切欠き部(45p)を設けた形状に形成される。
【0030】
また、図1及び図2に示す様に、樹脂針(4)は、その後端部にカテーテル(6)を接続して使用するため、図8に示す様に、樹脂針(4)のカテーテル嵌合部(42)には、カテーテル(6)の抜け止めとしての環状の拡径部(46)が設けられる。図8に例示した樹脂針(4)において、拡径部(46)は1箇所に設けられているが、斯かる拡径部(46)は複数箇所に設けられてもよい。通常、拡径部(46)の外径は8〜20mm程度である。
【0031】
本発明においては、針装着穴(3)の所定位置で樹脂針(4)を固定するため、鍔(45)よりも先端側の樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の鍔(45)近傍には、蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)の係合溝(34)に密接に嵌合する円環状の拡径部(44)が設けられる。斯かる拡径部(44)は、係合溝(34)に応じて複数箇所設けられてもよい。拡径部(44)の外径は、上記の係合溝(34)の内径と略同一とされる。
【0032】
更に、本発明においては、針装着穴(3)に装着した際の気密性を確保するため、樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の外周面は、蓋部材(2)の針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)に密接に嵌合するテーパー面とされる。すなわち、樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の外周面は針装着穴(3)に密着する面に形成されている。樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)のテーパー面のテーパー角度(θ2)は、上記の筒部(31)のテーパー角度(θ1)と同様の角度であって、5度以下、好ましくは1〜5度に設定される。
【0033】
本発明の装着構造において、蓋部材(2)は、容器本体(1)に輸液を充填した後、容器本体(1)に設けられた口部(11)に溶着される。蓋部材(2)を溶着する場合は、口部(11)のフランジ部(12)に対し、蓋部材(2)のフランジ部(22)を高周波溶着法、加熱溶着法などの溶着法によって溶着一体化する。
【0034】
輸液容器を使用する場合は、図1又は図2に示す様に、上記の樹脂針(4)にカテーテル(6)を接続した状態で蓋部材(2)の針装着部(21)の針装着穴(3)に樹脂針(4)を装着する。針装着穴(3)に樹脂針(4)を挿入する場合は、鍔(45)を把持し、針装着穴(3)に針先(41)を押込む。樹脂針(4)を押込むと、針装着穴(3)先端の封止部(32)の脆弱部(33)が針先(41)によって破れる。そして、鍔(45)が針装着部(21)の端面に突き当たるまで樹脂針(4)を押込むことにより、樹脂針(4)の針先(41)の針先孔(41c)を容器本体(1)内側に突出させることが出来る。
【0035】
上記の様に樹脂針(4)を装着した場合、本発明の装着構造においては、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の基端側内周面に設けられた係合溝(34)に対し、樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の鍔(45)近傍に設けられた拡径部(44)が密接に嵌合するため、針装着穴(3)において樹脂針(4)を一定の位置に確実に保持でき且つ装着した樹脂針(4)の脱落を防止できる。そして、本発明の装着構造においては、針装着穴(3)の筒部(31)の内周面と樹脂針(4)の胴部(43)の外周面とがテーパー面に形成され且つ互いに密接に嵌合するため、針装着穴(3)と樹脂針(4)とで高い気密性を発揮し、樹脂針(4)装着後の輸液の漏れを有効に防止し得る。すなわち、本発明の装着構造によれば、輸液容器の口部(11)に対して液漏れのない状態で確実に樹脂針(4)を装着することが出来る。
【0036】
【発明の効果】
以上説明した様に、本発明によれば、蓋部材および樹脂針を射出成形によってそれぞれ一体的かつ簡単に構成でき、そして、蓋部材の針装着穴のテーパー面と樹脂針胴部のテーパー面との密接な嵌合により、輸液容器の口部に対して液漏れのない状態で確実に樹脂針を装着し得る工業的に有利な輸液容器の樹脂針装着構造が提供される。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図1】輸液容器の口部に樹脂針が装着された状態の一例を一部破断して示す部分的な側面図である。
【図2】輸液容器の口部に樹脂針が装着された状態の他の例を一部破断して示す部分的な側面図である。
【図3】輸液容器の口部に溶着される蓋部材の形状例を示す縦断面図である。
【図4】輸液容器の口部に溶着される蓋部材の形状例を示す縦断面図である。
【図5】輸液容器の口部に溶着される蓋部材の形状例を示す縦断面図である。
【図6】蓋部材における針装着穴の構造例を示す縦断面図である。
【図7】針装着穴先端の封止部における脆弱部の形状例を示す底面図である。
【図8】樹脂針の構造例を一部破断して示す側面図である。
【図9】樹脂針の鍔の形状例を示す平面図である。
【符号の説明】
1 :容器本体
11:口部
12:フランジ部
2 :蓋部材
21:針装着部(21)
22:フランジ部
23:嵌合部
3 :針装着穴
31:筒部
32(32A):封止部
32(32B):封止部
33:脆弱部
34:係合溝
4 :樹脂針
41:針先
41c:針先孔
42:カテーテル嵌合部
43:胴部
44:拡径部
45:鍔
45p:切欠き部
46:拡径部
5 :シール
6:カテーテル
θ1:テーパー角
θ2:テーパー角[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a structure for mounting a resin needle on an infusion container, and more particularly, to an infusion container having a simple structure and capable of securely mounting a resin needle in a state of no liquid leakage to the mouth of the infusion container. And a resin needle mounting structure.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, when using infusion containers, the use of metal needles has been regulated, and the use of disposable disposable needles has been regulated to prevent infection accidents due to incorrect reuse of needles for infusion removal and to prevent infection accidents from the skin caused by needles. The spread of resin needles is being promoted.
[0003]
However, when a resin needle is applied to a plug at the mouth of a conventional infusion container made of an elastomer or the like, there is a problem of the adhesion between the plug and the resin needle due to the thickness of the resin needle itself and the material of the plug. In addition, there is a problem that a liquid leak easily occurs in a mounting portion of the resin needle. Therefore, in the spread of resin needles, it is desired to have a simple structure that has a sufficient sealing property to the mouth of the infusion container and can be manufactured at low cost.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has been made as a result of various studies on the structure of the mouth portion of the infusion container suitable for the resin needle, together with the resin needle. It is an object of the present invention to provide a resin needle mounting structure for an infusion container, which can securely mount a resin needle to a mouth portion of the infusion container without liquid leakage.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the resin needle mounting structure of the infusion container according to the present invention includes a lid member welded to the mouth of the infusion container and a resin needle for infusion removal mounted on the lid member. Wherein the lid member is provided with a fragile portion in which a tip of a substantially cylindrical tubular portion is sealed by a sealing portion and the sealing portion is broken by press fitting of the resin needle. An annular engaging groove having an enlarged diameter is provided on the inner peripheral surface on the base end side of the cylindrical portion of the needle mounting hole, and the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the needle mounting hole is provided. The surface is a tapered surface gradually reduced in diameter toward the distal end, and the resin needle is a substantially elongated tubular body having a distal end formed at a tapered needle tip and a rear end serving as a catheter fitting portion. A flange as a gripping portion provided at an intermediate portion thereof, and a flange of a resin needle body at a tip side of the flange. A ring-shaped enlarged portion that closely fits into the engagement groove of the needle mounting hole of the lid member is provided on the side, and the outer peripheral surface of the resin needle body is a cylinder of the needle mounting hole of the lid member. It is characterized in that it has a tapered surface that fits closely to the part.
[0006]
That is, in the above-described resin needle mounting structure, when the resin needle is pushed into the needle mounting hole of the lid member until the flange of the resin needle abuts on the lid member, the fragile portion of the sealing portion is broken by the needle tip and the tip of the resin needle tip The needle tip protrudes inside the container body. At this time, the enlarged diameter portion of the resin needle body is closely fitted to the engagement groove of the cylindrical portion of the needle mounting hole, so that the resin needle can be held at a fixed position in the needle mounting hole and mounted. Can be prevented from falling off. And, since the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the needle mounting hole and the outer peripheral surface of the resin needle body portion are formed in a tapered surface and closely fitted to each other, the needle mounting hole and the resin needle exhibit high airtightness, Leakage of the infusion after mounting the resin needle can be effectively prevented.
[0007]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
An embodiment of a resin needle mounting structure for an infusion container according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a partial side view partially broken away showing an example of a state in which a resin needle is attached to a mouth portion of an infusion container. FIG. 2 is a partial side view partially broken away showing another example of a state in which a resin needle is attached to a mouth of an infusion container. 3 to 5 are longitudinal sectional views showing examples of the shape of the lid member welded to the mouth of the infusion container. FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a structure example of a needle mounting hole in the lid member, and FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing a shape example of a weak portion in a sealing portion at the tip of the needle mounting hole. FIG. 8 is a side view showing an example of the structure of the resin needle partially cut away, and FIG. 9 is a plan view showing an example of the shape of the flange of the resin needle. Hereinafter, in the description of the embodiment, the resin needle mounting structure of the infusion container is abbreviated as “mounting structure”.
[0008]
FIGS. 1 and 2 show a use state in which an infusion container is turned over. As shown in the drawing, the mounting structure of the present invention includes a lid member (2) welded to a mouth part (11) of the infusion container and the cover member (2). A resin needle (synthetic resin needle) (4) for taking out an infusion, which is mounted on the lid member. In the present invention, as an infusion container, a deformable thin container whose mouth (11) is integrally formed with the container main body (1) by blow molding, as well as a container main body formed by a film bag are injected. A so-called infusion bag formed by welding a formed mouth is included. In any case of the container, the mouth (11) is formed to be thicker than the container main body (1) in order to increase rigidity, and the above-mentioned lid member (2) is securely welded, so that an annular rising portion is formed. A flange portion (12) is provided at the upper end (the lower end in the drawing) of the portion.
[0009]
Examples of the constituent material of the infusion container include a resin composition containing a propylene homopolymer and a propylene copolymer containing propylene as a main component, and a resin composition containing a low-density polyethylene and an olefin copolymer. Can be The container body (1) in the infusion container of the integral molding type has, for example, a substantially square shape, a substantially elliptical shape, or a substantially circular cross-sectional shape (a cross-sectional shape orthogonal to the center line) in which the corners are formed in an arc shape. It is provided as a vertically long container with a slightly narrowed bottom. Further, the shoulder of the container body (1) may be formed in a curved surface continuous with the above-mentioned mouth (11) with a gentle curvature.
[0010]
The lid member (2) welded to the mouth (11) is integrally formed by injection molding. As a constituent material of the lid member (2), polyethylene and a polypropylene-based polymer are representative. Examples of polyethylene include low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, a mixture of low-density polyethylene and linear low-density polyethylene, a mixture of low-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene obtained using a metallocene catalyst, and low-density polyethylene and high-density polyethylene. Examples thereof include a mixture of high-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, a mixture of high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene obtained by using a metallocene catalyst, and a mixture of low-density polyethylene and a polyolefin-based elastomer. Examples of the polypropylene-based polymer include, in addition to polypropylene, a mixture of polypropylene and a polypropylene obtained using a metallocene catalyst, a polypropylene terpolymer containing an olefin-based special copolymer soft resin, a mixture of polypropylene and a polyolefin-based elastomer, and the like. .
[0011]
The lid member (2) is provided with a needle mounting hole (3). Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the lid member (2) is formed in a substantially dish-like shape, and a needle mounting hole (3) is provided in a portion corresponding to the bottom surface (the upper end portion in each drawing). A needle mounting portion (21) provided and a welding flange portion (22) protruding around the outside of the needle mounting portion. The lid member (2) can be formed into various shapes including a needle mounting hole (3) described later from the viewpoint of rigidity, ease of molding, and the like.
[0012]
For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the lid member (2) corresponds to a substantially middle portion of the height of the substantially dish-shaped needle mounting portion (21), that is, the side wall of the dish. A short cylindrical portion of the needle mounting portion (21), which is formed by extending a flange portion (22) at a substantially intermediate portion of the portion and falls down from the flange portion (22) (a portion corresponding to the side wall of the dish). It is configured as a fitting part (23) for the mouth part (11). As described above, when the fitting part (23) is provided at one end side of the lid member (2), when the lid member (2) is welded to the mouth part (11) of the container body (1). The lid member (2) can be easily attached to the mouth (11). The lid member (2) shown in FIG. 3 (a) and the lid member (2) shown in FIG. 3 (b) are different from the mouth portion (11) in addition to the diameter and thickness of the needle mounting portion (21). The disposition of a welding portion (25) for welding a seal (5) described later to the end face of the opposite needle mounting portion (21) is different.
[0013]
Furthermore, in order to simplify the structure, the lid member (2) may be formed in a shape that does not include the fitting portion (23). Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the lid member (2) is provided at the height of the substantially dish-shaped needle mounting portion (21), that is, at the end of the portion corresponding to the side wall of the dish. The flange portion (22) is formed to protrude from the edge. The lid member (2) shown in FIG. 4 (c) and the lid member (2) shown in FIG. 4 (d) have the same thickness as the needle mounting portion (21), as well as the mouth ( The arrangement of a welding portion (25) for welding a seal (5) described later on the end face of the needle mounting portion (21) on the opposite side to 11) is different. The lid member (2) shown in FIGS. 5 (e) and (f) respectively has a lid member (2) shown in FIGS. 4 (c) and (d) except for the structure of a needle mounting hole (3) described later. ) Is provided.
[0014]
The lid member (2) has a specific needle mounting hole (3) into which the above-mentioned resin needle (4) is mounted, as shown in FIGS. The needle mounting hole (3) has a tip portion of a substantially cylindrical tubular portion (31) sealed by a sealing portion (32) and a fragile portion (33) that is broken by press fitting of the resin needle (4) into the sealing portion. Is provided. The needle mounting hole (3) is designed to substantially follow the size of the distal end side of the resin needle (4), and the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3) is different from that of the resin needle (4). Is designed to be slightly smaller in diameter than the outer diameter of the body (43) of the resin needle (4) to be described later. For example, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3) is approximately 3 to 5 mm, the depth of the cylindrical portion (31) is approximately 3 to 6 mm, and the thickness of the cylindrical portion (31) is generally 0. 0.5 to 1.5 mm. In addition, in order to facilitate the insertion operation of the resin needle (4), the inlet side of the needle mounting hole (3) (near the opening of the cylindrical portion (31)) may be appropriately enlarged in diameter as shown in the figure. .
[0015]
The lid member (2) has, for example, two modes depending on the structure of the sealing portion (32) on the distal end side of the needle mounting hole (3). The mounting structure shown in FIG. 1 is a structure using the lid member (2) of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, and the mounting structure shown in FIG. 2 is a lid of the second embodiment shown in FIG. This is a structure using the member (2).
[0016]
The needle mounting hole (3) of the lid member (2) shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 has a substantially conical cylindrical tip (31) as shown in an enlarged view in FIG. 6 (a). It is sealed by a sealing portion (32A). In the sealing portion (32A), the fragile portion (33) is, for example, as shown in FIG. 7A, for example, a cross-shaped cross extending radially around the tip of the sealing portion (32A). It is constituted by a groove. The needle mounting hole (3) having the sealing portion (32A) as described above allows the pushing force to be concentrated at one point of the tip of the sealing portion (32A) when the resin needle (4) is inserted. The weak portion (33) can be broken with a small pushing force.
[0017]
On the other hand, the needle mounting hole (3) of the lid member (2) shown in FIG. 5 has a substantially disk-shaped seal at the distal end of the cylindrical tube portion (31) as shown in an enlarged view in FIG. It is sealed by the part (32B). In the sealing portion (32B), the fragile portion (33) is, for example, an arc-shaped groove provided at the center of the sealing portion (32B) as shown in FIG. And lateral grooves extending radially in five directions. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7C, the fragile portion (33) has a curved groove extending in two directions in a U-shape from the center of the sealing portion (32B) and two directions in a V-shape. And straight grooves formed. The needle mounting hole (3) having the sealing portion (32B) as described above is simply formed into a substantially cylindrical shape with a bottom, and is easily formed. The thickness of each sealing portion (32) shown in FIG. 7, that is, the thickness of the groove portion is usually 0.2 to 0.6 mm, and the width of each sealing portion (32). That is, the width of the groove portion is usually 0.3 to 1.0 mm.
[0018]
As shown in FIGS. 6 (a) and 6 (b), the inserted resin needle (4) is placed at a predetermined position on the inner peripheral surface on the base end side of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3). For fixing, an annular engagement groove (34) having an enlarged diameter is provided. In the needle mounting hole (3) illustrated in the figure, the engagement groove (34) is provided at one place, but such an engagement groove (34) may be provided at a plurality of places. Usually, the inner diameter of the engagement groove (34) is about 4 to 8 mm. As described above, by providing the engagement groove (34) in the needle mounting hole (3) and the enlarged diameter portion (44) described later in the resin needle (4), the insertion allowance of the resin needle (4) is increased. And the tapered surface of the cylindrical portion (31) described later and the tapered surface of the body portion (43) of the resin needle (4) can be securely brought into close contact with each other.
[0019]
Further, in the present invention, in order to ensure airtightness with the resin needle (4), the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3) is tapered with a diameter gradually reduced toward the distal end. Surface. That is, the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion (31) is formed on a surface that is in close contact with the body of the resin needle (4) described later. The taper angle (θ1) of the tapered surface of the cylindrical portion (31) is set to 5 degrees or less, preferably 1 to 5 degrees from the viewpoint of increasing the fitting strength with the resin needle (4) and increasing the airtightness. Is done.
[0020]
In the present invention, the needle mounting hole (3) protruding inside the needle mounting portion (21) has a length such that the tip of the sealing portion (32) does not protrude from the edge of the needle mounting portion (21). It is preferred that it is formed in the shape. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the needle mounting hole (3) is formed on the mouth (11) side of the needle mounting part (21) of the lid member (2) formed in a substantially dish shape. The length of the distal end of the sealing portion (32) is set to be inwardly receded by a distance (Δs) with respect to the edge. Usually, the distance (Δs) between the edge of the needle mounting portion (21) and the tip of the sealing portion (32) is 0.5 to 3.0 mm. As described above, when the tip of the sealing portion (32) of the needle mounting hole (3) is formed so as not to protrude from the edge of the needle mounting portion (21), the produced lid member (2) When the is transported in the manufacturing process, the tip of the sealing portion (32) does not come into contact with a transport device or the like, so that contamination of the lid member (2) can be reduced.
[0021]
Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, before mounting the resin needle (4), the outer end surface of the lid member (2), that is, the outer surface of the needle mounting portion (21) of the lid member (2) The seal (5) for preventing contamination that covers the needle mounting hole (3) is welded. The seal (5) covers the opening of the needle mounting hole (3) and the periphery thereof, and is usually made of a gas barrier film or an aluminum vapor-deposited film. It is welded to a bulging portion (25) provided on the end face of the needle mounting portion (21) on the opposite side to 11). The bulging portion (25) may be provided at one location on the outer peripheral portion of the end face of the needle mounting portion (21) as shown in FIGS. 3 (a), 4 (c) and 5 (e). 3 (b), 4 (d) and 5 (f), the outer periphery of the end face of the needle mounting portion (21) and the periphery of the needle mounting hole (3). May be provided.
[0022]
On the other hand, the resin needle (4) shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 attached to the lid member (2) is integrally formed by injection molding. Examples of the constituent material of the resin needle (4) include polypropylene, ABS resin, polyarylate containing polyethylene terephthalanol and polycarbonate, and copolymers thereof, polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, polyacrylonitrile, polyphenylene sulfide, and cycloolefin polymer. No.
[0023]
As shown in FIG. 8, the resin needle (4) is a substantially elongated tubular body, the tip of which is formed as a tapered needle tip (41), and the rear end of which is formed as a catheter fitting part (42). Is done. The outer diameter of the resin needle (4) excluding the flange (45), the enlarged diameter portion (44), and the enlarged diameter portion (46) described later is set to about 4 to 6 mm, and the catheter is fitted from the needle tip (41). The inside diameter of the flow path of the resin needle (4) penetrating to the part (42) (the inside diameter of the part excluding the part of the needle tip (41)) is set to about 1.0 to 4.0 mm.
[0024]
When the resin needle (4) is mounted in the needle mounting hole (3) of the lid member (2), the fragile portion (33) of the sealing portion (32) is broken by the needle tip (41), The needle tip (41) is projected from the tip of the part (31) toward the container body (1). Therefore, the tip (41) of the resin needle (4) is formed in a moderately sharp state in order to concentrate the breaking force on the fragile portion (33).
[0025]
Specifically, the tip of the needle tip (41) of the resin needle (4) is formed into a spherical surface having a radius of curvature of 0.15 to 2.0 mm. The reason why the radius of curvature of the tip of the needle tip (41) is set in the above range is as follows. If the radius of curvature is less than 0.15 mm, the strength of the tip of the needle tip (41) is insufficient, and the tip may be deformed when breaking the fragile portion (33). In addition, there is a risk of stabbing a human body such as a fingertip, which is not preferable from the viewpoint of preventing infection. On the other hand, when the radius of curvature exceeds 2.0 mm, since the pressing force is dispersed, a large pushing force is required to break the fragile portion (33), and the operability is lacking.
[0026]
The resin needle (4) shown in FIGS. 8 (a) and 8 (b) is a needle whose tip (41) is formed in a relatively sharp conical shape, and the resin needle (4) shown in FIG. 8 (c). Is a needle in which the needle tip (41) is formed in an oval shape having a relatively gentle curved surface. 8A to 8C can be applied to the lid member 2 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In addition, it is preferable to apply the resin needle (4) in the mode of FIG. 8A or 8B to the lid member (2) shown in FIG.
[0027]
The needle tip hole (41c) at the tip of the needle tip (41) is formed in a substantially elliptical shape or a drop shape as shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 or FIGS. ) Are provided at two or three places at the end. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8C, the needle tip holes (41c) are formed in a slit shape and provided at two to four locations at the tip of the needle tip (41).
[0028]
An intermediate portion of the resin needle (4) is provided with a flange (45) that functions as a grip portion and that defines the insertion depth of the lid member (2) into the needle mounting hole (3). The position of the flange (45) is such that the length of the body (43) of the resin needle (4) on the distal end side from the flange (45) is a predetermined length, that is, the sealing of the distal end of the needle mounting hole (3). The needle tip (41) is provided at a position where the needle tip (41) has a sufficient length to protrude toward the container body (1) when the stopper (32) is pierced by the needle tip (41).
[0029]
The collar (45) needs to function as a grip when handling the resin needle (4). That is, when the resin needle (4) is mounted on the lid member (2), the flange (45) is gripped with a fingertip and mounted. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9, at least a part of the outer peripheral portion of the flange (45) of the resin needle (4) is provided with a linear notch (45 p) for applying a fingertip. That is, the collar (45) has, for example, a shape in which a notch (45p) is provided at one place on the outer peripheral portion of the disk as shown in FIG. 9A, or as shown in FIG. 9B. The notch (45p) is formed in the outer peripheral portion of the disk body in a shape having two parallel portions. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9 (c), the fan-shaped plate-like body is formed into a shape in which a notch (45p) is provided in an arc part.
[0030]
Also, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the resin needle (4) is used by connecting a catheter (6) to the rear end thereof. Therefore, as shown in FIG. The joining portion (42) is provided with an annular enlarged portion (46) as a stopper for the catheter (6). In the resin needle (4) illustrated in FIG. 8, the enlarged diameter portion (46) is provided at one position, but the enlarged diameter portion (46) may be provided at a plurality of positions. Usually, the outer diameter of the enlarged diameter portion (46) is about 8 to 20 mm.
[0031]
In the present invention, since the resin needle (4) is fixed at a predetermined position of the needle mounting hole (3), the flange (45) of the body (43) of the resin needle (4) on the tip side from the flange (45). In the vicinity, an annular enlarged portion (44) that closely fits into the engagement groove (34) of the needle mounting hole (3) of the lid member (2) is provided. Such an enlarged portion (44) may be provided at a plurality of positions in accordance with the engagement groove (34). The outer diameter of the enlarged diameter portion (44) is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the engagement groove (34).
[0032]
Further, in the present invention, in order to ensure airtightness when the resin needle (4) is attached to the needle mounting hole (3), the outer peripheral surface of the body (43) of the resin needle (4) is provided with the needle mounting hole of the lid member (2). It is a tapered surface that fits closely to the cylindrical portion (31) of (3). That is, the outer peripheral surface of the body portion (43) of the resin needle (4) is formed on a surface that is in close contact with the needle mounting hole (3). The taper angle (θ2) of the tapered surface of the body portion (43) of the resin needle (4) is the same as the taper angle (θ1) of the cylindrical portion (31), and is 5 degrees or less, preferably 1 degree or less. Set to ~ 5 degrees.
[0033]
In the mounting structure of the present invention, the lid member (2) is welded to the opening (11) provided in the container body (1) after filling the container body (1) with the infusion solution. When the lid member (2) is welded, the flange portion (22) of the lid member (2) is welded to the flange portion (12) of the mouth portion (11) by a welding method such as a high-frequency welding method or a heat welding method. Integrate.
[0034]
When using an infusion container, as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2, the needle mounting of the needle mounting portion (21) of the lid member (2) with the catheter (6) connected to the resin needle (4). Attach the resin needle (4) to the hole (3). When inserting the resin needle (4) into the needle mounting hole (3), the user grips the collar (45) and pushes the needle tip (41) into the needle mounting hole (3). When the resin needle (4) is pushed in, the fragile portion (33) of the sealing portion (32) at the tip of the needle mounting hole (3) is broken by the needle tip (41). Then, by pushing the resin needle (4) until the flange (45) abuts on the end face of the needle mounting part (21), the needle tip hole (41c) of the needle tip (41) of the resin needle (4) is inserted into the container body. (1) It can be protruded inward.
[0035]
When the resin needle (4) is mounted as described above, in the mounting structure of the present invention, the engagement groove (34) provided in the inner peripheral surface on the base end side of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3). ), The enlarged diameter portion (44) provided near the flange (45) of the body portion (43) of the resin needle (4) fits closely, so that the resin needle (4) is inserted in the needle mounting hole (3). ) Can be reliably held at a fixed position, and the attached resin needle (4) can be prevented from falling off. In the mounting structure of the present invention, the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion (31) of the needle mounting hole (3) and the outer peripheral surface of the body portion (43) of the resin needle (4) are formed as tapered surfaces, and Due to the close fitting, high airtightness is exhibited between the needle mounting hole (3) and the resin needle (4), and leakage of the infusion after the mounting of the resin needle (4) can be effectively prevented. That is, according to the mounting structure of the present invention, the resin needle (4) can be securely mounted to the mouth portion (11) of the infusion container without liquid leakage.
[0036]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the lid member and the resin needle can be integrally and simply formed by injection molding, respectively, and the tapered surface of the needle mounting hole of the lid member and the tapered surface of the resin needle body portion The close fitting of the infusion container provides an industrially advantageous resin needle mounting structure for an infusion container that can securely mount the resin needle to the mouth of the infusion container without liquid leakage.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a partial side view partially broken away showing an example of a state in which a resin needle is attached to a mouth of an infusion container.
FIG. 2 is a partial side view partially showing another example of a state in which a resin needle is attached to a mouth portion of an infusion container.
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view showing an example of the shape of a lid member welded to the mouth of the infusion container.
FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing an example of a shape of a lid member welded to a mouth of an infusion container.
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view showing an example of a shape of a lid member welded to a mouth of an infusion container.
FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a structural example of a needle mounting hole in a lid member.
FIG. 7 is a bottom view showing an example of the shape of a fragile portion in the sealing portion at the tip of the needle mounting hole.
FIG. 8 is a side view showing an example of the structure of the resin needle, partially broken away.
FIG. 9 is a plan view showing an example of a shape of a flange of a resin needle.
[Explanation of symbols]
1: container body 11: mouth portion 12: flange portion 2: lid member 21: needle mounting portion (21)
22: Flange part 23: Fitting part 3: Needle mounting hole 31: Tubular part 32 (32A): Sealing part 32 (32B): Sealing part 33: Fragile part 34: Engaging groove 4: Resin needle 41: Needle Tip 41c: needle tip hole 42: catheter fitting portion 43: trunk portion 44: enlarged diameter portion 45: flange 45p: notch portion 46: enlarged diameter portion 5: seal 6: catheter θ1: taper angle θ2: taper angle