Collapsible Thin-Walled Valve for Safe Drainage Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainage systems face issues with fluid pooling and retrograde flow in drainage tubes, leading to complications such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) and hospital-acquired infections (HAI), as well as potential pressure-related complications due to applied pressures reaching the patient.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible tube within a tubular body lumen that can be collapsed to occlude fluid flow, controlled by an occlusion mechanism activated by air pressure or vacuum, with integrated pressure measurement and control systems to manage fluid flow and prevent excessive pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a drainage tube is used to drain fluid from a patient, then fluid drainage is achieved, but fluid pooling and retrograde flow occur leading to infections
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage tube changes its lumen configuration dynamically by transitioning between straight and looped states. This parameter change in tube geometry prevents fluid pooling and retrograde flow while maintaining drainage functionality, thereby reducing infection risk without compromising drainage reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage tube incorporates dynamic movement capability through its ability to form and release loops in response to fluid flow conditions. This dynamic behavior allows the tube to adapt to varying drainage rates and prevent harmful fluid accumulation, resolving the contradiction between maintaining drainage and preventing infections
2Productivity
If positive or negative pressure is applied to the drainage tube to move trapped fluid, then fluid flow is improved, but pressure reaches the patient causing complications
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion balloon acts as an intermediary element between the pressure source and the patient. When inflated, it creates a seal that allows pressure to be applied to move trapped fluid without transmitting that pressure to the patient, thereby improving fluid flow productivity while preventing pressure-related complications
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage tube system is segmented into distinct functional zones: a patient-safe drainage lumen and a separate occlusion balloon mechanism. This segmentation allows independent control of fluid movement and pressure application, enabling improved productivity through pressure assistance while protecting the patient from harmful pressure effects
3Object-affected harmful factors
If an occlusion mechanism is added to prevent pressure transmission, then patient safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion balloon is merged with the drainage tube structure, sharing the same wall material and integration points. This combining approach allows the occlusion function to be added without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the balloon utilizes the existing tube structure rather than requiring completely separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The occlusion mechanism utilizes a flexible balloon that can be inflated and deflated to control fluid flow. This flexible shell approach provides effective occlusion with minimal structural complexity, as the balloon's elasticity and compliance allow it to seal effectively without requiring rigid or complex mechanical components
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
Prevents fluid pooling and retrograde flow, reducing infection risks and patient complications while maintaining safe pressure conditions within the drainage system.
Implementation Method 1
collapsing the collapsible tube establishes an occlusion of the tubular body lumen preventing fluid flow through the tubular body lumen
Implementation Method 2
the air flow through the occlusion port defines an air jet exiting the occlusion port, producing a dynamic pressure defined by the velocity of the air jet impinging on the collapsible tube
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a drainage control system including, a tubular body with a tubular body lumen extending from a distal end to a proximal end and a collapsible tube disposed within the tubular body lumen, the collapsible tube including a collapsible tube lumen extending from a distal end to a proximal end of the collapsible tube. The collapsible tube can be attached to the tubular body, such that fluid flow through the tubular body lumen flows through the collapsible tube lumen. The tubular body can include a valve that is actuatable between a first configuration wherein fluid flow is allowed through the tubular body lumen and a second configuration wherein fluid flow is prevented through the tubular body lumen. An airflow source can be coupled to the valve such that pressure from the airflow source actuates the valve.