Handheld Urine Collection Pump with Permeable Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with limited or impaired mobility face challenges with typical urination processes, and existing fluid collection devices like bed pans and indwelling urinary catheters are prone to discomfort, hygiene issues, and complications such as urinary tract infections.
Innovation Solution
A handheld fluid collection device with a pump, a fluid permeable member, and a conduit, designed to be ergonomically shaped for intuitive single-hand operation, allowing for the collection and removal of urine without the need for constant proximity to a toilet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bed pans are used for fluid collection, then mobility restrictions are accommodated, but discomfort and hygiene issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the fluid collection system into separate functional components: a handheld body for positioning, a removable fluid permeable member for urethral interface, a conduit for fluid transport, and a pump for active removal. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing discomfort while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid permeable member acts as an intermediary between the urethra and the collection system, enabling fluid collection without direct contact between the user and the main device body. This intermediary approach improves hygiene and comfort while maintaining functionality.
2Reliability
If indwelling urinary catheters are used, then fluid collection is achieved, but urinary tract infections and discomfort occur
Solution Approach 1:
The pump creates negative pressure in advance to actively draw fluid through the permeable member and into the collection container. This preliminary active suction prevents fluid stagnation and reduces the risk of infection compared to passive collection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-catheterization through the handheld design with ergonomic grip features. Users can independently position the distal end near their urethra and activate the pump, eliminating the need for indwelling catheters and their associated infection risks.
3Ease of operation
If handheld design with pump is used, then portability and comfort are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single handheld body: positioning mechanism, fluid permeable member interface, conduit connection, and pump activation. This merging reduces the number of separate components the user must handle, simplifying operation despite the sophisticated internal systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld body serves multiple functions: it houses the pump mechanism, provides ergonomic grip for single-hand operation, positions the conduit inlet, and interfaces with the fluid permeable member. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate devices for each function.
4Productivity
If active pump drawing is used, then fluid removal efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously, activating to draw fluid through the permeable member and then pausing. This periodic operation maintains high fluid removal efficiency when needed while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous pumping.
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 device provides a more comfortable, hygienic, and portable solution for fluid collection, reducing the risk of complications and allowing users to remain in a stationary position while voiding urine.
Implementation Method 1
The pump is configured to draw fluid from the fluid permeable member and at least partially through the conduit
Implementation Method 2
The fluid permeable member is positioned to extend at least partially across the opening
Data Source
AI summary
Example fluid collection devices, systems, and methods of use are described. A fluid collection device includes a handheld body, a fluid permeable member, a conduit, and a pump. The handheld body has a proximal end region at least partially defining an aperture, a distal end region at least partially defining an opening, and an interior region. The fluid permeable member is positioned to extend at least partially across the opening. The conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid permeable member and extends at least partially through the aperture. The pump secured to the handheld body and/or positioned within the interior region of the handheld body. The pump is configured to draw fluid from the fluid permeable member and at least partially through the conduit.