Faceted Elastomeric Nozzle for Sinus Irrigator Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sinus cavity rinsing devices face challenges in obtaining an effective seal and controlling fluid flow, making the rinsing process messy and uncomfortable, particularly for individuals with limited dexterity or flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A powered nasal cavity irrigator with a detachable handle and reservoir, featuring a pump mechanism, power source, and switch, along with a faceted nozzle made of soft elastomeric material for improved sealing and a diaphragm pump for controlled fluid flow, allowing for comfortable and efficient rinsing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a nozzle is used for sinus cavity rinsing, then fluid delivery to the nasal passage is achieved, but the seal between nozzle and nasal passage is inadequate causing fluid leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is constructed from soft elastomeric material that forms a flexible seal against the nasal passage. This flexible material conforms to the contours of the nasal passage, creating an effective seal that prevents fluid leakage during rinsing.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle features an asymmetric faceted structure with multiple facets rather than a simple circular opening. This asymmetric geometry allows the nozzle to conform to the non-circular cross-section of the nasal passage, improving seal effectiveness and preventing fluid leakage.
2Ease of operation
If gravity flow from a large volume vessel is used, then fluid flow is achieved, but control over flow volume and timing is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical control system (hand-squeezing a bottle or pouring from a vessel) is replaced with an electrically powered pump mechanism. The pump is controlled by a switch that allows precise control over when fluid flows and at what rate, eliminating the difficulty of controlling flow volume and timing with gravity-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump mechanism automatically draws fluid from the reservoir and delivers it through the nozzle when activated. The system self-regulates the fluid delivery process without requiring manual manipulation of the vessel or bottle, providing consistent and controllable flow.
3Ease of operation
If pressurized flow from a squeeze bottle is used, then fluid flow is achieved, but hand strength and dexterity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical squeezing action requiring hand strength is replaced with an electrically powered pump mechanism. The pump generates the necessary pressure to deliver fluid through the nozzle without requiring the user to apply manual force, making the device accessible to individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity.
4Ease of operation
If bending over a sink at an odd angle is required, then fluid drainage is achieved, but user comfort is reduced for those with limited flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The device design allows the user to maintain a more upright, neutral posture during rinsing. The powered pump and controlled fluid delivery system eliminate the need to bend over at odd angles, reducing physical strain on the user's back and joints while still achieving effective sinus cavity rinsing.
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 powered irrigator provides a secure and comfortable sealing mechanism and precise control over fluid flow, enhancing the effectiveness and comfort of sinus rinsing, suitable for users with varying dexterity and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The handle portion includes a pump mechanism, a power source, and a switch for turning the power source on and off to actuate the pump mechanism. Fluid flows from the reservoir portion through the handle portion and out a nozzle disposed at the handle portion upon actuating the pump mechanism.
Implementation Method 2
a faceted nozzle made of soft elastomeric material for improved sealing
Data Source
AI summary
A powered irrigator for use in rinsing nasal cavities has a main body including a handle and a fluid reservoir detachably coupled to one another, an outlet nozzle extending from a top end of the handle, a pump mechanism operably coupled to a power source, and a switch operably coupled to the power source for turning the pump mechanism on and off. When the switch turns on the pump mechanism, fluid flows from the fluid reservoir into a first fluid coupling between the reservoir and the pump mechanism and into a second fluid coupling between the pump mechanism to the outlet nozzle. The top of the handle can be angled relative to a longitudinal axis of the main body. The nozzle is removable from the top end and has a self-sealing structure to provide an enhanced fit within a user's nostril.