Self-Opening Binary Valve for Rapid Gastric Balloon Deflation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gastric balloons require invasive endoscopic procedures for removal, which pose risks and are costly, and there is a need for a device that can rapidly deflate.
Innovation Solution
A self-opening release valve that rapidly opens to its full open state after initiation, utilizing a fluid path, a plug for sealing, an energy storage element to remove the plug, and a release material that degrades to allow fluid release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a self-opening release valve is used, then the need for invasive endoscopic procedures is reduced, but the speed of fluid release may be insufficient for rapid deflation
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage element (spring) is pre-loaded during device assembly to a compressed state, storing potential energy ready for immediate release. When the release mechanism is activated, this pre-stored energy instantly propels the plug from the sealed position to the fully open position, enabling rapid deflation without requiring invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical endoscopic removal system with a self-actuating valve mechanism that uses a pre-compressed spring to mechanically eject the plug. This substitution eliminates the need for endoscopic intervention while achieving rapid fluid release through the stored mechanical energy
2Reliability
If a plug sealing mechanism is used, then fluid containment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted as a separate plug component that can be independently positioned within the fluid path. The plug works in conjunction with a socket to create the seal, allowing the containment function to be achieved through a simple, removable element rather than a complex integrated valve system
Solution Approach 2:
The socket acts as an intermediary element that provides both the sealing surface and the activation mechanism. The release mechanism (such as a dissolvable element or mechanical actuator) interacts with the socket to either dissolve the seal or physically move the plug, simplifying the overall control system while maintaining reliable containment
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 valve enables rapid and controlled fluid release from gastric balloons, improving the timing and adequacy of deflation, which is beneficial for patient safety and reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage element disposed to remove the plug from the fluid path
Implementation Method 2
a release material disposed to hold the plug in a sealing configuration in the evacuation path until the strength of the release material degrades below that which is needed to resist the energy storage element
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid control valves including single-opening, binary fluid control valves that are initially closed and can be opened one time only to allow a fluid transfer between two spaces separated by a fluid impermeable barrier. Applications of valves of this type include inflatable devices, including but not limited to medical device balloons, in particular gastric balloons for weight loss.