Fluid Collection Device With Permeable Barrier And Automated Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid collection devices for individuals with limited or impaired mobility, such as bed pans and urinary catheters, face issues like discomfort, pressure ulcers, spills, hygiene concerns, and urinary tract infections, and require frequent sterilization or replacement due to the nature of bodily fluids.
Innovation Solution
The development of fluid collection devices that include a fluid impermeable barrier with a fluid permeable body to wick fluids away from the collection area, featuring a support and membrane configuration that reduces absorption and enhances comfort, along with automated manufacturing methods to ensure quality and reduce costs, including the use of motorized rollers and tube cutting apparatuses for precise tubing management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional urinary catheters or bed pans are used for fluid collection, then fluid collection function is achieved, but discomfort and hygiene issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a catheter portion for urine collection, a barrier portion with fluid-permeable and fluid-impermeable layers, and a collection bag. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall hygiene and comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier portion acts as an intermediary between the catheter and collection bag, featuring a fluid-permeable layer that allows fluid passage and a fluid-impermeable layer that prevents contamination, thereby resolving the hygiene issue while maintaining comfort
2Productivity
If fluid collection devices are used frequently, then fluid collection need is met, but sterilization and replacement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a disposable unit that can be manufactured cost-effectively using automated processes. Each device is sealed in sterile packaging, eliminating the need for repeated sterilization and reducing replacement costs through efficient manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions (catheter, barrier, collection bag) are merged into a single integrated device that can be manufactured as one unit or pre-assembled components, streamlining the manufacturing process and reducing overall production costs
3Manufacturing precision
If automated manufacturing processes are implemented, then manufacturing consistency and quality improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Components are pre-formed and pre-assembled to precise specifications before final integration. The catheter, barrier layers, and collection bag are prepared in advance with predetermined dimensions and configurations, enabling automated assembly while maintaining simplicity in the manufacturing process
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 solution provides a more comfortable, hygienic, and efficient fluid collection system that minimizes the risk of infections and reduces the need for frequent replacement, while improving manufacturing consistency and reducing costs through automation.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid permeable body positioned at least partially within the chamber to extend across at least a portion of the opening and configured to wick fluid away from the opening
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid collection device may include a fluid impermeable barrier and a fluid permeable body in some examples. The fluid permeable body and fluid impermeable barrier may be manufactured and/or assembled by a variety of techniques. In some examples, the fluid permeable body may be extruded and automatically cut to a desired length. In some examples, a tube of a support may be bonded to a strip of material to form the fluid permeable body. In some examples, a conduit may be automatically cut to length. In some examples, a conduit may be placed at a rear of a chamber of the fluid impermeable barrier. In some examples, the fluid impermeable barrier may include a channel to accept the conduit. In some examples, the fluid impermeable barrier may be formed by multiple injection molded components coupled together.