Absorbent Nasal Plug with Flexible Sheathing for Discharge Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for managing nasal discharge, such as those for cold symptoms or nosebleeds, are often complex, uncomfortable, and fail to effectively prevent discharge in a reclining position, particularly while sleeping.
Innovation Solution
A nasal plug made from absorbent material with a flexible sheathing shaft, designed to fit into the nasal passage, preventing nasal mucus flow and potentially coated with medicaments for symptom relief, allowing for comfortable use during sleep.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing devices for managing nasal discharge are used, then some level of discharge control is achieved, but the devices are complex and uncomfortable to use
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal plug is divided into distinct functional segments: a compressed absorbent core for fluid absorption, an expandable outer layer for sealing and comfort, and a shaft for insertion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall device simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The nasal plug is designed as a disposable single-use device, eliminating the need for cleaning, sterilization, or maintenance. This reduces complexity associated with device reusability while ensuring hygienic effectiveness for each use.
2Reliability
If existing devices for managing nasal discharge are used, then some discharge control is provided, but they fail to effectively prevent discharge in a reclining position
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal plug transitions from a compressed state during insertion to an expanded state upon contact with nasal fluids. This dynamic expansion allows the plug to adapt to the nasal passage geometry and maintain effectiveness in various positions, including reclining during sleep.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug's physical parameters change from a compact, insertable form to an expanded, volume-filling form once activated by nasal fluids. This parameter change enables the device to provide reliable discharge prevention while maintaining user comfort in different positions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple absorbent material is used for the nasal plug, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to provide both absorption and sealing function is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal plug combines multiple materials with complementary properties: a highly absorbent core material for fluid uptake and an expandable outer material for sealing. This composite structure achieves both absorption and sealing functions while remaining manufacturable through layering or co-extrusion processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device merges the absorption function and sealing function into a single integrated plug structure. The inner absorbent core and outer expandable layer work together as one unit, providing both functions simultaneously without requiring separate devices or complex assembly.
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
The nasal plug effectively prevents nasal discharge during sleep, allowing for uninterrupted breathing and improved rest, while being simple and comfortable to use, addressing the limitations of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a plug element made from an absorbent material
Data Source
AI summary
A nasal plug for preventing excessive fluid discharge from a nasal passage includes a plug element fabricated from an absorbent material. The plug element has a size and configuration adapted and constructed to fit into a human nasal passage. A shaft portion extends from the plug element. The shaft portion is formed as an extension of the plug element and is fabricated from the same material as the plug element. A flexible sheathing is provided on the shaft portion.