Bi-directional Pump Fluid Collection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for disposing of collected urine and cleaning fluid collection devices require manual handling, exposing users or caregivers to potential contaminants and necessitating extensive cleaning procedures.
Innovation Solution
A fluid collection system incorporating a bi-directional pump that operates in two configurations: one for drawing urine from a collection assembly into a container, and another for draining the urine and cleaning the system using a detergent and water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual disposal and cleaning methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but user exposure to contaminants increases and cleaning burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-disposal and self-cleaning operations through the bi-directional pump that automatically drains urine from the container and circulates cleaning solution through the fluid collection assembly, eliminating the need for manual handling by the user or caregiver
Solution Approach 2:
A bi-directional pump serves as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the container and the external environment, enabling automated transfer of urine for disposal and circulation of cleaning solutions without direct human contact with contaminants
2Loss of time
If manual cleaning procedures are performed, then device complexity is reduced, but cleaning time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system operates continuously by circulating cleaning solution through the fluid collection assembly multiple times and maintaining pressure to ensure thorough cleaning, eliminating the need for extensive manual cleaning procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-cleaning operations where the bi-directional pump automatically circulates cleaning solution through the fluid collection assembly and drains waste, eliminating the need for manual cleaning procedures and reducing cleaning time
3Ease of operation
If automated pump system is implemented, then manual handling is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bi-directional pump serves multiple functions including draining urine from the container, circulating cleaning solution through the fluid collection assembly, and maintaining pressure during cleaning operations, thereby simplifying the overall system design despite the added automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the disposal function and cleaning function into a single integrated system using one bi-directional pump, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation
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 system reduces manual handling and exposure to contaminants by automating the urine disposal and cleaning processes, enhancing safety and reducing the burden of manual cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source configured to draw the fluid from the fluid collection assembly into the container
Implementation Method 2
the pump is configured to... discharge the urine from the container
Implementation Method 3
initiating the pump to cycle the detergent throughout the fluid collection system
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid collection system may include a fluid collection assembly configured to receive urine from a user, a container configured to sore the urine collected from the fluid collection assembly, a collection tube disposed between the fluid collection assembly and the container, and a bi-directional pump. The fluid collection system operates in a first configuration to draw urine from the fluid collection assembly into the container and a second configuration to drain the urine and clean the fluid collection system.