Catheter Assembly With Segmented Handling Sleeve and Stand-Up Bag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaged catheter assemblies face challenges such as slippery handling due to wetting fluids, difficulty in filling and draining fluid collection bags, and issues with storage and disposal, particularly for users with limited dexterity or mobility.
Innovation Solution
A catheter assembly with a valve assembly that allows controlled filling and draining of the fluid collection bag without opening, and a pouch design that includes a fluid reservoir and sleeve for efficient wetting of the catheter, along with a retaining element for the catheter and bag to facilitate storage and disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a continuous handling sleeve covers the entire length of the catheter, then handling ease is improved, but wetting fluid cannot easily reach all parts of the catheter
Solution Approach 1:
The handling sleeve is divided into two distinct parts: a first handling sleeve that extends along a first portion of the catheter, and a second handling sleeve that extends along a second portion of the catheter. This segmentation allows the wetting fluid to access the catheter surface more effectively while still providing adequate handling coverage.
2Volume of moving object
If a fluid collection bag is made substantially 2D prior to use, then discreteness is improved, but the user must support or hold the bag to ensure it fills during use
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid collection bag is designed to be dynamically configurable between a compressed storage configuration (substantially 2D) for discreteness and an expanded operational configuration for filling and use. The bag can be collapsed into a compact form for portability and then expanded when needed, eliminating the need for continuous user support during filling.
3Ease of operation
If a drain is added to the fluid collection bag, then ease of disposal is improved, but the drain can leak or be difficult to open resulting in uncontrolled release of liquid
Solution Approach 1:
A valve mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user and the fluid collection bag's drainage system. The valve provides controlled access to the bag's contents, allowing the user to open and close the drain as needed. This intermediary component prevents uncontrolled leakage while maintaining ease of disposal when the valve is properly opened.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If wetting fluid is released to activate the catheter surface, then comfort is improved, but the fluid collection bag may become wet making handling difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The wetting fluid is extracted from the main packaging environment and contained within a separate, dedicated reservoir that is specifically designed to release the fluid directly onto the catheter surface. This separation prevents the wetting fluid from contaminating the fluid collection bag or other components, maintaining handling ease while still providing the necessary lubrication for comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A catheter assembly that has a fluid collection bag and a catheter. The fluid collection bag has two panels, a peripheral bond between the two panels, and an inlet to receive fluid from the catheter. The two panels are configured to form a base of the fluid collection bag distal from the inlet; and the fluid collection bag is configured to stand up on the base. The fluid collection bag may have a front, rear and base panels. The base panel may form the base of the bag. The fluid collection bag may have two side panels. The front and rear panels may be joined to opposite sides of each side panel. The base panel may be joined to one side of each side panel. The catheter may be a male urinary catheter.