Adaptive Floating Flange Ostomy Appliance Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Two-piece ostomy appliance designs face difficulties in separating and joining pouch and barrier rings, especially for users with limited dexterity or those who are overweight, due to the close proximity of the barrier ring to the peristomal area, leading to discomfort and insecurity, as well as a visible bulge under clothing when the pouch is full.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive ostomy appliance featuring a collection pouch, first and second coupling rings, a thermoplastic web, and a floating-flange securing medium, where the second coupling ring is mounted to the faceplate by a thermoplastic web, allowing the flange to be in either a floating or flush position, with a securing mechanism that reduces the distance between the pouch and the user's skin for enhanced security and discretion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a floating flange is used to increase accessibility to the barrier ring, then ease of operation is improved, but the pouch may pull away and become more visible under clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed to be dynamically adjustable between a floating position (for ease of operation) and a flush position (for discretion). The user can transition the flange between these states based on their needs, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements and aesthetic preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange position parameter can be changed by the user through a simple mechanism that allows transition between floating and flush configurations. This parameter change enables the user to optimize both accessibility during operation and visibility during wear.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a fixed flange is used to reduce visibility and provide security, then ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in accessing the barrier ring
Solution Approach 1:
The flange transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamically adjustable one, allowing the user to switch between flush (for security and discretion) and floating (for accessibility) positions as needed, thereby resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange position is made changeable through a user-actuated mechanism that allows transition between fixed and floating states, enabling the user to optimize the balance between security/discretion and accessibility based on the specific task at hand.
3Reliability
If the barrier ring is positioned close to the peristomal area to maintain a secure fit, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in grasping the ring
Solution Approach 1:
The flange acts as an intermediary element that extends the user's reach. By positioning the flange away from the peristomal area, it provides a convenient grasp point that allows the user to access and manipulate the barrier ring without compromising the secure fit of the barrier against the skin.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange extends the interaction interface into a different spatial dimension, moving the grasp point away from the peristomal area. This dimensional extension allows users to access the barrier ring more easily while maintaining the close fit of the barrier against the body.
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 adaptive floating flange design improves ease of use and security by allowing users to easily grasp and secure the coupling rings without disrupting the adhesive seal, providing a more secure and discreet ostomy appliance that reduces discomfort and visibility, especially when full.
Implementation Method 1
The thermoplastic web resiliently and flexibly secures the second coupling ring assembly to the front surface of the faceplate
Implementation Method 2
The flexible faceplate is adapted on a rear surface to be adhesively secured to the peristomal surface of a wearer's body
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive ostomy appliance includes a collection pouch, a first coupling ring attached to the collection pouch, and a faceplate having a second coupling ring assembly connected to it by a thermoplastic web. The coupling rings couple the faceplate to the pouch. A securing member releaseably, operably couples the second coupling ring with the front surface of the faceplate.