Flexible Wound Connector With Anti-Collapse Flow Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing negative pressure wound therapy systems suffer from discomfort due to pressure points and are ineffective in handling liquid exudate, leading to compromised adherence and reduced effectiveness over time.
Innovation Solution
A flexible connector with a deformable tubular cover and an anti-collapse element that allows fluid flow in all directions, reducing pressure points and enabling the removal of both gaseous and liquid substances, while minimizing component count for cost-effectiveness and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional three-layer plastic connector with textile spacer is used, then flexibility along the longitudinal axis is improved, but the connector becomes rigidly limited in the plane defined by the various layers and very wide
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into three functional layers: an inner collapsible layer for flexibility, an outer protective layer for structural integrity, and a sealing layer for fluid containment. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while working together to achieve both flexibility and compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible inner layer is nested within the outer protective layer, creating a compact structure when not in use. The inner layer can collapse radially while remaining contained within the outer layer, reducing the overall width and profile of the connector.
2Ease of operation
If the two plastic layers are bonded along the entirety of their perimeter to form a pocket-like structure, then good flexibility along a longitudinal axis is achieved, but the structure is rigidly limited in the plane defined by the various layers
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding between plastic layers is applied selectively at specific locations rather than along the entire perimeter. The sealing layer is bonded to the outer layer at discrete sealing points, allowing flexibility in unbonded regions while maintaining sealing integrity where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static bonded structure to a dynamic system where the inner collapsible layer can radially compress and expand. This dynamic capability allows the connector to adapt its shape and flexibility characteristics based on operational conditions.
3Ease of operation
If the flexible connector is used to suck air, then good flexibility is maintained, but liquid material concentrates in the absorbent layers causing swelling and decrease in sucking effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing layer is introduced as an intermediary between the collapsible inner layer and the outer protective layer. This sealing layer prevents liquid exudate from penetrating into the absorbent plaster layers, directing it instead through the connector to the suction device, thereby maintaining suction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is extracted from the absorbent plaster layers and transferred to the dedicated sealing layer in the connector. This extraction prevents the absorbent layers from becoming saturated with liquid, maintaining their effectiveness throughout the treatment period.
4Reliability
If a hydrophobic filter is placed between the flexible connection and the plaster to prevent liquid passage, then liquid material is blocked, but all liquid material concentrates in the absorbent layers causing swelling
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing layer acts as an intermediary that selectively manages fluid passage. It prevents liquid exudate from penetrating into the absorbent plaster layers while allowing the connector to maintain flexibility and adherence to the wound site throughout the treatment period.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing layer changes the fluid flow parameters by creating a hydrophobic barrier that redirects liquid exudate flow. This parameter change prevents liquid accumulation in the plaster layers while maintaining the mechanical integrity and adherence of the dressing system.
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 flexible connector maintains optimal adherence to the wound, accelerates healing by effectively removing exudate, and reduces infection risk through seamless fluid flow, enhancing patient comfort and treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible connector is configured to be coupled to a device for treating a wound and removing a fluid from said wound by means of the use of a negative pressure system
Implementation Method 2
an anti-collapse element positioned inside the tubular cover to prevent contact between the internal walls of the tubular cover when the negative pressure is applied
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible connector which can be coupled to a device for treating and removing a fluid from a wound using a negative pressure system is disclosed. The connector includes a deformable tubular cover having a first end connectable to a wound plaster and an opposite second end. The flexible connector can be coupled to a negative pressure source so that the fluid flows from the first end to the second end inside the tubular cover when the negative pressure is applied. An anti-collapse element placed inside the tubular cover prevents contact between the internal walls of the tubular cover when the negative pressure is applied and allows the passage of the fluid. The anti-collapse element includes a joining portion having a first extreme inside the tubular cover and a second extreme outside the tubular cover connectable to the negative pressure source.