Absorbent Polymer Composite Frame for Fluid Collection Bag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical fluid collection bags face challenges in comfort and functionality, particularly in being worn on the body without compromising daily activities due to weight and volume increase over time, and existing solutions are either uncomfortable, bulky, or lack fluid volume monitoring capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, non-directional fluid collecting apparatus composed of a frame made of absorbent polymer composite unit cells and a flexible bag with a conduit for fluid flow, allowing the apparatus to be worn comfortably and monitoring fluid accumulation through visible holes that indicate saturation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the medical fluid collection bag is tightly tied on the patient's body to prevent movement, then the bag remains stable and does not wobble, but the pressure from the bandage increases with bag expansion causing discomfort and potentially blocking fluid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The bandage incorporates elastic elements that allow dynamic adjustment of tension. As the bag expands with fluid collection, the elastic bandage automatically adjusts to maintain optimal tension without excessive pressure, preventing both bag movement and patient discomfort simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The bandage material properties are specifically selected to change tension characteristics in response to bag volume changes. The elastic modulus and stretch ratio are engineered to provide sufficient holding force when the bag is small while automatically reducing pressure as the bag expands
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the medical fluid collection bag is loosely tied on the patient's body to reduce pressure, then patient comfort is improved, but the bag will wobble or move due to fluid weight
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic bandage provides dynamic tension adjustment that adapts to bag volume changes throughout the collection period, maintaining bag stability without excessive pressure at any stage of fluid accumulation
Solution Approach 2:
The bandage uses composite elastic materials that combine flexibility with sufficient tensile strength, allowing the bandage to conform to body contours and secure the bag firmly without creating uncomfortable pressure points
3Reliability
If the fluid collection bag is made of hard material for NPWT connection, then the bag can be connected to suction pump, but the bag becomes bulky and heavy like a tank that is difficult to wear and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The bag uses flexible thin-film materials that provide sufficient structural integrity for NPWT pump connection while maintaining a lightweight, conformable structure that is comfortable to wear and easy to transport, eliminating the need for bulky rigid tanks
4Quantity of substance
If the fluid collection bag volume increases to provide large storage capability, then more fluid can be collected, but the bag becomes heavier and more difficult to wear comfortably
Solution Approach 1:
The bag employs advanced flexible film materials with high strength-to-weight ratio, enabling large fluid storage capacity while keeping the bag itself lightweight and comfortable for extended wear during fluid collection
Solution Approach 2:
The bag uses composite material construction that provides large volume capacity while minimizing weight, allowing sufficient fluid storage for multi-day use without compromising patient comfort or mobility
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 apparatus maintains a consistent volume, allows comfortable wear and movement, and enables easy monitoring of fluid accumulation without significant weight or bulk, providing a leakage-proof, large storage capacity, and is suitable for various body positions.
Implementation Method 1
a frame, composed of a plurality of unit cells, each being made of an absorbent polymer composite
Implementation Method 2
a frame, composed of a plurality of unit cells, each being made of an absorbent polymer composite
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for fluid collection is disclosed, which comprises: a frame, composed of a plurality of unit cells, each being made of an absorbent polymer composite; and a bag, for receiving the frame while being connected to a conduit provided for enabling a fluid to flow in and out the bag therethrough.