External Urine Collection Using Vacuum Canister and One-Way Valves
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an effective external urine collection device to manage urinary incontinence and prevent infections, particularly in bedridden or unconscious patients, as conventional methods like transurethral catheters increase the risk of bacterial infections and require frequent replacements.
Innovation Solution
A urine collection system using negative pressure to draw urine into a canister, with a valving sub-system to prevent leakage and backflow, and a collection bag with markings for fluid measurement, controlled by a suction unit with a vacuum pump and controller to manage fluid levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transurethral catheter is used for urine collection, then urine can be collected continuously, but the risk of bacterial infections increases and frequent replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the collection process into two separate components: an external collection device that collects urine outside the body and a transurethral catheter that remains in place. This segmentation allows the catheter to stay stationary (reducing infection risk) while the external device handles the collection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary external collection device that acts as a mediator between the patient's bladder and the collection container. This external device serves as a buffer, eliminating the need for the catheter to be repeatedly removed and replaced, thereby reducing infection risk.
2Reliability
If transurethral catheter is used for urine collection, then urine can be collected, but frequent replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the long-term indwelling catheter from the replaceable collection device. The catheter can remain in place for extended periods while the external collection bag is replaced as needed, thus extending the effective duration of the collection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The external collection device serves as an intermediary that can be easily replaced without affecting the catheter. This mediator approach allows frequent replacement of the collection bag while the catheter remains stable, reducing overall replacement frequency.
3Productivity
If negative pressure is applied to draw urine into canister, then urine collection is effective, but leakage and backflow may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by using a check valve that prevents backflow before it can occur. The valve is designed to automatically close when negative pressure is applied, counteracting the potential for leakage and backflow before they happen.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback through pressure-sensitive valves that respond to changes in negative pressure. When the vacuum pump creates negative pressure, the valves detect this change and adjust accordingly to prevent leakage, creating a self-regulating system.
4Productivity
If vacuum pump is used to provide negative pressure, then urine collection is effective, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service through passive check valves that automatically open and close based on pressure differential without requiring external control. This eliminates the need for complex electronic controls while maintaining effective urine collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic principles with vacuum-powered valves that operate automatically based on pressure changes. This pneumatic approach simplifies the system by eliminating motors, sensors, and electronic controls that would otherwise be needed to manage the vacuum and prevent backflow.
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 system effectively collects and manages urine, reducing the risk of infections and providing accurate fluid measurement, suitable for bedridden or unconscious patients.
Implementation Method 1
The suction unit may include a vacuum pump removably or permanently coupled to the collection unit and configured to provide a negative pressure to the collection canister
Implementation Method 2
The methods and apparatuses may use negative pressure to draw urine or liquid into a first canister or reservoir
Implementation Method 3
the collection bag may be coupled to the collection canister through a one-way valve configured to allow fluid flow from the collection canister to the collection bag and prohibit flow from the collection bag to the collection canister
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid (e.g., urine) management methods and apparatuses are described herein. The fluid management apparatuses may include a vacuum pump, a collection canister, and a collection bag. Negative pressure may be provided to the collection canister by the vacuum pump. The negative pressure may draw fluid into, as well as hold the fluid in, the collection canister. A controller may release the negative pressure from the collection canister to enable the fluid to flow from the collection canister into the collection bag.