Adjustable Convex Ostomy Barrier for Localized Sealing Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional convex ostomy barriers have fixed convexity that may not efficiently accommodate the varying topography of stomas and peristomal surfaces, leading to suboptimal sealing and discomfort for ostomates.
Innovation Solution
A convex ostomy barrier with an inflatable bladder compartmentalized into multiple bladders, allowing for localized adjustment of convexity characteristics such as depth, compressibility, slope, and flexibility, through inflation or deflation of individual bladders to customize the fit to the user's peristomal topography.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed convexity depth is used in conventional ostomy barriers, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the adaptability to different peristomal topographies is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the convexity depth adjustable rather than fixed. The ostomy barrier includes an inflatable bladder that can be inflated to different degrees to change the convexity depth dynamically, allowing adaptation to various peristomal topographies. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the device to change its configuration based on user needs while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the convexity depth parameter to be varied through inflation of the bladder. The barrier can transition from a flat configuration to a convex configuration with adjustable depth, enabling adaptation to different stoma protrusions and peristomal surfaces. This resolves the contradiction between simple manufacturing and adaptability by introducing a single adjustable parameter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a uniform convexity is applied across the entire skin barrier, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ability to accommodate localized topographic variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the bladder into multiple independent compartments or segments. Each segment can be inflated or deflated independently to create localized convexities at specific positions on the skin barrier. This allows accommodation of localized topographic variations such as creases or folds at specific areas around the stoma, while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different regions of the skin barrier to have different convexity characteristics. Through selective inflation of bladder segments, the barrier can provide enhanced convexity at specific locations where needed (e.g., at creases or folds) while maintaining flat or different convexity characteristics in other areas. This resolves the contradiction between simple manufacturing and localized adaptability.
3Reliability
If the convexity is made adjustable to match individual user needs, then the adhesive seal performance is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the user to adjust the convexity themselves through inflation of the bladder. The barrier includes an inflation mechanism that allows the user to inflate the bladder to the desired degree to create the appropriate convexity for their specific peristomal topography. This self-adjustment capability improves adhesive seal performance while maintaining ease of operation, as the user can perform the adjustment themselves without requiring professional assistance.
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 adjustable convexity provides a more secure and comfortable seal by optimizing the convexity characteristics to match individual user needs, enhancing the adhesive seal and reducing skin irritation.
Implementation Method 1
the inflatable bladder may be configured to adjust at least one characteristic of the convexity by inflating or deflating one or more of the plurality of bladders
Data Source
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AI summary
A convex ostomy barrier assembly for attaching an ostomy appliance to a peristomal skin surrounding a stoma includes a skin barrier, an inlet opening defined in the skin barrier for receiving the stoma, and a convexity adjusting device. The convexity adjusting device includes a convex insert and an inflatable bladder, wherein the convex insert is configured to provide a convexity to the skin barrier and the inflatable bladder is configured to adjust at least one characteristic of the convexity.