Drainage Container Suspension Device with Integrated Weighing Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainage containers with fluid collection bags pose challenges in visually determining the filling quantity, making it difficult for nursing staff to assess the success of drainage and prevent overfilling.
Innovation Solution
A suspension device with integrated weighing elements that measure the filling quantity by relative displacement between fastening parts, allowing for precise weight determination of the fluid in the container, and includes features like overload protection, strain relief, and a display for easy reading, with optional acoustic and visual warnings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If a fluid collection bag is used instead of a rigid container with filling indicator, then the drainage container can be reused multiple times, but the filling quantity becomes difficult or impossible to determine visually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual/mechanical filling indicator system with an electronic weighing sensor system. The weighing sensor measures the weight of the fluid collection bag and contents, converting a mechanical/visual measurement problem into an electronic measurement solution that works with flexible bags.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a weighing sensor as an intermediary measurement device between the fluid collection bag and the user. Instead of directly observing the filling level, the system uses the weighing sensor to indirectly measure the filling quantity through weight measurement, providing accurate data even for flexible bags without visual indicators.
2Measurement precision
If a weighing sensor is integrated into the suspension device, then filling quantity can be measured accurately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the weighing sensor functionality with the existing suspension device structure. The weighing sensor is integrated into the suspension device's fastening part, combining the suspension function and weight measurement function into a single unified device, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite adding measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical suspension for the drainage container and simultaneously serves as a weighing platform for measuring fluid accumulation. This multi-functionality approach allows the same device to handle both support and measurement tasks without requiring separate dedicated components.
3Ease of manufacture
If visual inspection by nursing staff is used to check filling level, then no additional equipment is needed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage system performs self-monitoring through the integrated weighing sensor that automatically measures and displays the filling quantity. The system serves itself by providing continuous, accurate feedback on fluid accumulation without requiring manual inspection, thereby improving productivity while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the weighing sensor continuously monitors the filling quantity and provides real-time information to the user. This automatic feedback system eliminates the need for manual visual inspection, providing continuous monitoring that improves efficiency and reduces human error in tracking fluid accumulation.
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
Enables accurate and cost-effective measurement of fluid filling levels in reusable suspension devices, preventing overfilling and allowing for efficient fluid collection management, even when containers are used for limited times.
Implementation Method 1
a weighing part with a weighing element, wherein the weighing part is connected or can be connected to the first fastening part and to the second fastening part so as to measure, with the weighing element, a relative displacement between the first fastening part and the second fastening part
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension device for a drainage container has, on a first side, a first fastening unit for mounting and fastening the drainage container on the suspension device. On a second side, a second fastening unit is present for mounting and fastening the suspension device on a rail. The first fastening unit is arranged in a first fastening part, and the second fastening unit is arranged in a second fastening part. The suspension device further comprises a weighing part with a weighing element, wherein the weighing part is connected or can be connected to the first fastening part and to the second fastening part so as to measure, with the weighing element, a relative displacement, such that a filling quantity of the aspirated body fluid in the drainage container can be determined.