Catheter Assembly Valve and Segmented Handling Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intermittent catheter assemblies face challenges with handling and re-packaging due to slipperiness after wetting, and fluid collection bags are cumbersome and prone to leakage, making them difficult to use and dispose of discreetly.
Innovation Solution
A catheter assembly with a valve assembly that allows for controlled filling and draining of the fluid collection bag without opening, and a pouch configuration that contains the catheter, fluid reservoir, and sleeve for improved handling and hygiene.
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 efficiency deteriorates as wetting fluid cannot easily reach all parts of the catheter
Solution Approach 1:
The handling sleeve is divided into two distinct sections: a first section that extends along part of the catheter length and a second section at the distal end. This segmentation allows the distal end to be exposed for effective wetting while providing handling coverage for the proximal portion, resolving the contradiction between handling ease and wetting efficiency.
2Volume of moving object
If a fluid collection bag is made substantially 2D prior to use, then discreteness and portability are improved, but usability deteriorates as the user must support or hold the bag to ensure it fills during use
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid collection bag transitions from a substantially 2D collapsed state during storage and transport to a 3D expanded state during use. This dynamic transformation allows the bag to be compact and discrete when not in use, yet functional and self-supporting when filled with urine, resolving the contradiction between portability and usability.
3Ease of operation
If a drain is added to the fluid collection bag to allow emptying, then ease of disposal is improved, but reliability deteriorates as the drain can leak or be difficult to open causing inadvertent liquid release
Solution Approach 1:
A valve mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the fluid collection bag's emptying function. The valve provides controlled opening and closing capability, allowing the bag to be emptied intentionally into a toilet while preventing inadvertent leakage. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction between ease of disposal and leak prevention by providing reliable control over fluid release.
4Adaptability or versatility
If liquid is contained within a sachet, reservoir or bag within the packaging, then functionality is improved, but harmful factors increase as liquid may accidentally leak out onto the catheter assembly or packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system incorporates protective measures beforehand to prevent accidental leakage. The pouch design includes leak-proof barriers and secure containment structures that protect the catheter assembly and packaging from liquid damage in case of sachet or reservoir failure, resolving the contradiction between functionality and leakage risk.
Data Source
AI summary
A catheter assembly that has a catheter having a proximal end for insertion into the body and a distal end, a valve assembly, and a fluid collection bag arranged to receive fluid from the distal end of the catheter via the valve assembly. The valve assembly has a first configuration in which the valve assembly inhibits fluid flow in a direction from the fluid collection bag towards the catheter and permits fluid flow in a direction from the catheter towards the fluid collection bag; and a second configuration in which the valve assembly permits fluid flow in a direction from the fluid collection bag towards the catheter and inhibits fluid flow in a direction from the catheter towards the fluid collection bag. The catheter may be a male urinary catheter. Colour may be used to indicate the configuration of the valve assembly.