Enema Device Self-Centering Nozzle Insertion Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional enema devices cause discomfort during insertion and are difficult for patients to self-administer due to the need for precise placement and steady handling, often requiring assistance that may not be available.
Innovation Solution
An enema device with a hollow, elongated rigid body and a contoured nozzle receiving portion that allows for easy insertion and self-administration, featuring a discharge portion with a self-centering protrusion for comfort and a fluid-tight seal, enabling patients to administer enemas without assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conventional applicator nozzle is used for enema administration, then the device structure is simple, but it causes discomfort and irritation during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional segments: a comfort tip for gentle insertion, a nozzle for fluid delivery, and a discharge portion. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally - the comfort tip reduces irritation while the nozzle maintains structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the device have different properties tailored to their functions. The comfort tip has a softer, more compliant local quality to reduce discomfort during insertion, while the main body maintains rigid structural simplicity for ease of manufacture and handling
2Ease of operation
If a conventional applicator nozzle is used, then the device is simple to use, but it is difficult for patients to self-administer due to the need for precise placement and steady handling
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a self-centering protrusion that automatically centers the discharge opening within the anal opening during insertion. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for precise manual placement and steady handling, enabling patients to safely self-administer the enema without requiring another individual's assistance
Solution Approach 2:
The self-centering protrusion is designed to automatically perform the centering action as the device is inserted. This preliminary action of automatic centering occurs before the patient needs to maintain precise positioning, thereby simplifying the operation and enabling self-administration
Data Source
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AI summary
An enema device for use with a source of enema fluid having an elongated nozzle includes a hollow elongated rigid body having an interior extending between first and second ends and a feed portion formed at the first end defining a feed portion opening. A hollow nozzle receiving portion extends from the feed portion opening and is in fluid communication with the feed portion opening and the interior of the hollow elongated body. The hollow nozzle receiving portion is sized and configured to slidably receive the elongated nozzle, wherein when the elongated nozzle is slidably received within the hollow nozzle receiving portion, the elongated nozzle is in fluid communication with the interior of the hollow elongated body. The enema device further includes a discharge portion disposed at the second end of the elongated body. The discharge portion defines a discharge opening in communication with the interior of the hollow elongated body.