Precise measuring device for analyzing the urinary flow in men and women

Abstract

Device for measuring the urinary flow rate in men, comprising: • a sterile, adjustable vial for placement on the penis; • an electric propeller inside the vial to measure the jet velocity; • Sensors for measuring urine pressure in the bottle; • a device for measuring the beam width; • a system for measuring the duration and volume of urination; • Sensors for determining the color, density and pH value of urine; • an integrated sterile vial for collecting urine samples.

Description

Purpose of the invention:

[0001] PeeMeter is an innovative, precise measuring device for analyzing the urinary flow in men and women, developed for the early detection and continuous monitoring of urological diseases, in particular for assessing prostate and bladder function as well as sexual potency in men, and for analyzing the urinary flow in the vaginal area in women. 1. Description of the device

[0002] PeeMeter consists of: • For men: a sterile, flexible, and adjustable silicone sheath, similar to a condom, that is placed over the penis. This sheath creates a small vacuum around the first 2 cm of the penis to ensure stability during measurement and a secure fit. The silicone sheath is stretchable and suitable for various penis sizes. • For women: an anatomically adapted silicone prosthesis (silicone mold) that is individually or universally manufactured based on a silicone impression of the vagina and urethral opening. This prosthesis models the anatomical features and enables the precise urination and collection of the urine stream in the PeeMeter.

[0003] The main unit is held in a horizontal position and is equipped with a tilt indicator to ensure correct alignment. This allows the device to be used safely even with immobile or bedridden patients.

[0004] The following systems and sensors are integrated into the device: • An electric propeller for measuring the speed and strength of the urine stream. • Pressure sensors that detect the urine pressure at defined areas of the bottle. • Sensors for measuring the width of the urine stream. • Systems for recording the total duration of urination and the amount of urine. • Sensors and indicators for determining the color, density, and pH value of urine. • An integrated sterile sampling area that receives and safely stores the urine sample for laboratory analysis. • A small display for real-time display of relevant measured values. • An adjustable negative pressure system for gentle stimulation of the urinary reflex, which supports urination. • Sensors or indicators for detecting bacterial infections and inflammation in urine. • Functions for measuring penis circumference and other physiological parameters for assessing sexual potency. • Additionally, the PeeMeter can be used to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of • can be used to treat erectile dysfunction. Precise measurement and analysis of urine flow allows for early detection of possible underlying urological or vascular causes, facilitating targeted therapy and thus contributing to improved sexual potency.

[0005] PeeMeter is a medical measuring device in the form of a stable, square bottle that can be securely placed on any flat surface. The casing is made of robust, biocompatible plastic that is easy to clean and hygienic.

[0006] On the top side is a flexible, medical-grade silicone tube, similar in appearance and elasticity to a condom. This tube is placed over the penis and, using a small, adjustable vacuum, gently stabilizes the first 2 cm of the penis to ensure reliable fixation and precise data recording during measurement. The silicone tube is interchangeable and available in various sizes to comfortably accommodate different body dimensions.

[0007] A clearly legible, energy-saving display is integrated into the side of the device, showing the user the measured values ​​in real time. These include urine flow rate, urine volume, pressure values, as well as parameters such as urine color, pH value, and possible infection indicators.

[0008] The following technical components are installed inside the bottle: • An electric propeller for precise measurement of the strength and speed of the urine stream. • Flexible pressure sensors (membranes) for detecting pressure changes in urine flow. • Sensors for determining the beam width for a differentiated analysis of the urinary stream. • Systems for the precise temporal recording of urination duration and volume. • Sensors for determining urine color, density and pH value as indicators of health conditions. • A sterile urine sampling area that allows for safe and contamination-free sample storage.

[0009] The device has been ergonomically designed with rounded edges for safe handling. Easy cleaning and maintenance are ensured by removable and replaceable components, especially the silicone hose.

[0010] For enhanced functionality, PeeMeter features an integrated SD card storage option, which can be used at home and accessed during doctor's visits. Alternatively, a Bluetooth interface enables wireless data transfer to a mobile app that evaluates and documents calibrated and standardized parameters, making them accessible to both the user and the treating physician.

[0011] This combination of precise measuring systems, ergonomic design, digital data acquisition and ease of use makes PeeMeter an innovative and practical instrument for the early detection and monitoring of urological diseases. 2. Supplement for the PeeMeter version for women

[0012] • For female users, PeeMeter is available in a specially adapted version. This version uses an anatomically shaped silicone prosthesis based on an individual or universal silicone impression of the vagina and urethral opening. This prosthesis is flexible and adapts to the female anatomy to guide the urine stream safely and precisely into the measuring device. • The silicone prosthesis is designed to fit comfortably and to ensure accurate measurement of urine flow, pressure, volume, and important parameters such as pH value, color, and possible signs of infection during the measurement. • This design takes into account special requirements for hygiene, sterility, and wearing comfort to ensure user-friendly application, even for patients. The prosthesis is reusable and can be easily cleaned or sterilized.

[0013] As with the male version, the measurement data can be viewed via an integrated display and saved to an SD card or transferred to a mobile app via Bluetooth. This ensures continuous monitoring and easy communication with medical professionals. 3. Special application for catheterized patients

[0014] The PeeMeter is designed so that the outlet tube of an existing urinary catheter is inserted into a specially designed opening in the PeeMeter device. This modular design allows for the measurement of urine flow, flow rate, urine volume, and pressure without altering the integrity or functionality of the catheter.

[0015] This concept ensures: • The integrity and functionality of the catheter remain unchanged. • PeeMeter can precisely capture and monitor parameters, which helps to detect complications in catheterized patients early. • Flexibility and ease of use, as the PeeMeter can be used as a standalone measuring module and can be quickly removed or replaced if necessary. • Minimized risk of urine leakage thanks to an optimized sealing concept for the connection. • The PeeMeter is also suitable for female patients with an existing urinary catheter and can be connected via a special adapter for the vaginal area or the catheter tube, so that precise urinary flow analysis is also possible for these patients. 4. Technical field

[0016] The present invention relates to a measuring system for the precise analysis of urinary flow parameters, particularly in patients with an existing urinary catheter. More precisely, it is a modular device that accommodates the outlet tube of an existing catheter and enables the measurement of urinary flow, flow rate, urine volume, and pressure without impairing its functionality. The measuring system is designed for both male and female patients, with a special adapter for the vaginal area provided for women.

[0017] The technical field thus encompasses urological diagnostic procedures, medical measurement technology in the area of ​​bladder and prostate function, as well as devices for monitoring and early diagnosis of urological diseases and dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction. 5. State of the art

[0018] Currently, various systems exist for measuring urinary flow and analyzing bladder and prostate function in patients with and without urinary catheters. Traditional methods are often based on invasive procedures or are quite cumbersome, which can be unpleasant for both medical staff and patients. Particularly in catheterized patients, many existing measurement systems require adjustments or replacement of the catheter, increasing the risk of complications such as infections or urinary leaks.

[0019] Furthermore, current devices for measuring urinary flow are often not modular and offer limited flexibility in handling. This makes the precise measurement of urinary flow, flow rate, urine volume, and bladder pressure difficult. In addition, solutions that are equally suitable for male and female patients, especially without additional invasive procedures, are often lacking.

[0020] There is therefore a need for a measurement system that preserves the integrity and functionality of the existing urinary catheter, is easy to use, and enables precise, continuous monitoring – regardless of the patient's gender. The PeeMeter concept fills this gap through its modular design, adaptability via special adapters, and the minimization of risks compared to conventional methods. 6. Supplement to the device description - Data transmission and storage

[0021] For convenient data backup and analysis, the PeeMeter offers two options for data transfer and storage: • SD card storage: For typical household use, the PeeMeter can save measurement data to an integrated SD card. Users can take this card to their doctor so the data can be read directly and used for a detailed medical evaluation. • Bluetooth transmission and mobile app: Alternatively or additionally, the PeeMeter supports a wireless connection via Bluetooth to a mobile app. The app displays the current measurements to the user, saves them, and allows for easy tracking of urological parameters over extended periods. The app is designed to receive and evaluate standardized, calibrated parameter values ​​to provide reliable and medically relevant information.

[0022] These data transfer and storage functions increase user-friendliness, enable continuous health monitoring, and improve communication between patient and doctor. Title of the invention: Precise measuring device for analyzing the urinary stream in men and women

[0023] Fig. The image shows a measuring device for men, consisting of a sterile, flexible, and adjustable silicone sleeve that is placed on the penis similarly to a condom. The sleeve creates a small vacuum around the first 2 cm of the penis to ensure stability during the measurement and guarantee a secure fit. The silicone sheath is stretchable and suitable for various penis sizes.

[0024] Fig. shows a schematic representation of the components of the measuring device for men: 1. Adaptation to penis with funnel 2 catheter connections 3 sensors 4 Electric motor with propeller 5 membranes 6 evaluation probe 7-inch monitor 8 urine containers for the laboratory 9 Indicator

[0025] Fig. This shows an adapter for women, consisting of an anatomically adapted, funnel-shaped silicone prosthesis, which is custom-made or universally compatible based on a silicone impression of the vagina and urethral opening. This prosthesis replicates the anatomical features and allows for the precise capture and collection of the urine stream using a catheter adapter.

Claims

[1] Device for measuring the urinary flow rate in men, comprising: • a sterile, adjustable vial for placement on the penis; • an electric propeller inside the vial to measure the jet velocity; • Sensors for measuring urine pressure in the bottle; • a device for measuring the beam width; • a system for measuring the duration and volume of urination; • Sensors for determining the color, density and pH value of urine; • an integrated sterile vial for collecting urine samples. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the electric propeller generates data on the strength and speed of the urine stream. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure sensors are arranged on the inner surface of the vial or by means of a pressure-sensitive membrane. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, which enables storage and statistical analysis of the collected data. [5] Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an integrated display for displaying relevant measured values ​​in real time. [6] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an interchangeable, flexible rubber condom-like cover is used for placement on the penis, which is adaptable to different sizes. [7] Device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a tilt indicator system which ensures a horizontal alignment of the device. [8] Device according to one of the preceding claims, suitable for use in patients with limited mobility or who are bedridden. [9] Device according to any of the preceding claims comprising an adjustable vacuum system for stimulating urination. [10] Device according to claim 9, wherein the intensity of the vacuum system is adjustable. [11] Device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising sensors or indicators for detecting bacterial infections and inflammation in the urine. [12] Device according to one of the preceding claims, which enables measurement of penis circumference and other physiological parameters for assessing sexual potency. [13] Device according to claim 12, which derives an indicative statement about the user's erectile function from the recorded data. [14] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet line of an existing urinary catheter is inserted into a specially designed opening of the device to measure parameters such as flow, pressure and urine volume. [15] Device according to claim 14, comprising a connection device which ensures a tight and secure connection between the catheter and the measuring device. [16] Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an integrated storage unit in the form of an SD card on which measurement data can be stored. [17] Device according to one of the preceding claims, which provides a wireless Bluetooth connection for transmitting the measurement data to a separate mobile terminal. [18] Device according to claim 17, wherein the measurement data are received, stored and evaluated by a specially developed mobile application. [19] Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the stored or transmitted measurement data contain standardized and calibrated parameter values ​​to enable reliable medical analysis.

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