Convex Ostomy Barrier with Core-Out Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ostomy barrier systems face challenges in effectively sealing against varying peristomal skin surfaces and stomas, particularly for patients with flush or recessed stomas, leading to discomfort and inefficiency in directing effluent into the pouch.
Innovation Solution
A convex ostomy barrier assembly featuring a skin barrier with an adhesive, an inlet opening, and a convex insert having a convex ring-like body with inner and outer flanges, a core-out portion for flexibility, and a skin barrier support structure, which includes ribs and core-out windows to provide improved sealing and support, allowing for secure attachment and efficient effluent management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flat ostomy barrier is used, then the device complexity is low, but the sealing effectiveness against varying peristomal surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies convexity to the ostomy barrier surface to match the curved anatomy of peristomal skin and stoma. The convex insert creates a domed shape that conforms to the body's natural contours, improving seal adherence and effluent direction while maintaining a relatively simple single-piece structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a convex insert only in the specific region where effluent discharge occurs, rather than making the entire barrier complex. This localized application of curvature provides sealing effectiveness where needed while keeping the overall device structure simple and manufacturable.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If external support or pressure is applied to flush or recessed stomas, then the seal duration is prolonged, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The convex insert creates a domed surface that applies gentle, distributed pressure to flush or recessed stomas. This curvature naturally directs effluent toward the pouch opening and maintains contact between the adhesive barrier and peristomal skin, extending seal duration without requiring additional support structures or complex mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a convex insert is added to improve sealing, then the sealing effectiveness is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The convex insert is implemented as a localized component within the overall barrier structure, allowing it to be manufactured separately and then integrated. This approach enables specialized convex geometry to be produced using standard molding techniques, then combined with the flat barrier portion through simple bonding or molding processes, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving improved sealing.
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 convex ostomy barrier enhances the adhesive seal, reduces discomfort, and improves the direction of effluent into the pouch by applying pressure around the peristomal area, thus prolonging the seal and enhancing user comfort and pouch functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive layer configured to form an adhesive seal between the ostomy barrier and a peristomal skin surface
Implementation Method 2
The convex insert may include... a skin barrier support structure for supporting the skin barrier
Data Source
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AI summary
A convex ostomy barrier includes a skin barrier, an inlet opening for receiving a stoma, and a convex insert. The convex insert includes an inner flange, an outer flange, and a middle portion arranged therebetween. The middle portion includes a pouch side surface for attaching a flange, a core-out portion configured to improve the flexibility of the convex insert, and a skin barrier support structure for supporting the skin barrier.