Collapsible Pusher for Furlow Insertion Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing penile prosthesis insertion devices, such as Furlow insertion devices, face challenges in efficiently and accurately inserting implants into the corpus cavernosum, particularly in accommodating variations in the inner diameter of the elongate member and ensuring smooth operation of the pusher mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A disposable insertion device with an elongate member and a pusher having a slot configuration that allows for both expanded and collapsed configurations, enabling the pusher to adapt to varying inner diameters and facilitating the insertion of a needle and implant, while the pusher's handle portion extends from the lumen for user control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the pusher is designed with a fixed structure, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to varying inner diameters deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher is designed with a collapsible structure that transitions from an expanded configuration during insertion to a collapsed configuration during retrieval. This dynamic transformation allows the pusher to adapt to varying inner diameters of the elongate member while maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled mechanical movement rather than variable geometry
2Ease of operation
If the pusher maintains an expanded configuration throughout the procedure, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher automatically transitions between expanded and collapsed configurations based on its position and function within the elongate member, eliminating the need for complex mechanical constraints to maintain a fixed expanded state. The dynamic design simplifies the overall device by using natural mechanical response rather than active control mechanisms
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pusher is designed to collapse, then the adaptability to inner diameter variations is improved, but the reliability of the insertion process deteriorates due to potential configuration errors
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible pusher incorporates features that ensure reliable configuration transitions, such as defined expansion and collapse pathways that prevent erroneous states. The mechanical design ensures the pusher assumes the correct configuration based on its position within the elongate member, maintaining insertion reliability while providing adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
According to a general aspect, an insertion device includes an elongate member defining a lumen extending from a first end of the elongate member to a second end of the elongate member, and a pusher having a first end portion. The first end portion of the pusher is configured to be disposed within the lumen defined by the elongate member and move from a first position within the lumen defined by the elongate member to a second position within the lumen defined by the elongate member. The first end portion of the pusher defines a slot.