Binary Fluid Valve Release for Rapid Controlled Deflation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid release mechanisms in gastric balloons and similar devices often lack the ability to rapidly deflate, and existing self-opening valves do not adequately control the flow rate of fluid release, posing challenges for efficient and safe device deflation.
Innovation Solution
A self-opening fluid control valve system with a binary operation that includes an energy storage device to rapidly transition from a closed to an open state, utilizing a restraining element that degrades to allow fluid flow, ensuring controlled and rapid deflation by integrating a degradable material to control the release mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a self-opening valve is used to enable non-invasive deflation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the flow rate control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is pre-loaded with potential energy during manufacturing and remains dormant until the restraining element degrades. This preliminary preparation enables the valve to transition rapidly from closed to open state without requiring external intervention at the moment of deflation, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining controlled flow rate through the energy storage device's regulated expansion
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system transitions from a static closed state to a dynamic open state through the time-dependent degradation of the restraining element. The system's flow rate is dynamically controlled by the degradation kinetics of the restraining element, which gradually allows the energy storage device to expand and regulate fluid flow, thereby achieving both ease of operation and controlled productivity
2Reliability
If a conventional valve is used to maintain sealing, then the reliability is improved, but the deflation speed is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is pre-charged with sufficient energy during manufacturing to enable rapid deflation when needed. This preliminary energy storage allows the system to maintain reliable sealing during the balloon's service life while providing the capability for rapid deflation when the restraining element degrades, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and speed
Solution Approach 2:
The valve operates in two distinct periodic phases: a long-duration sealed phase maintained by the restraining element, and a rapid deflation phase triggered by the degradation of the restraining element. This periodic operation allows the system to maintain reliable sealing for the required duration while enabling rapid deflation when the time comes, balancing reliability and speed requirements
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 enables rapid and controlled deflation of fluid-filled devices by ensuring a controlled flow rate, enhancing safety and efficiency in device deflation without the need for invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device disposed to force the valve to the open position
Implementation Method 2
a degradable material to control the release mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
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.