Intrauterine System Inserter with Automatic Loading Package
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intrauterine system inserters face challenges in accurately positioning T-shaped devices within the uterus due to difficulties in maintaining the correct orientation during insertion, leading to potential damage and improper positioning, which can result in the device being jammed or not fully expanded, and there is a need for a solution that simplifies the insertion process while ensuring asepticity and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A package and inserter system that automatically loads the intrauterine system into the insertion tube, utilizing a locking throttle mechanism to exert a controlled force for correct positioning, preventing premature release and ensuring the device is correctly aligned within the inserter, allowing for easy handling and reduced steps for the physician.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the intrauterine system is pulled into the insertion tube by means of the removal string, then the device can be introduced into the uterus, but it is difficult to make the IUS stop in the correct position and the sharp edges of the insertion tube may interfere with the introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The package includes a form that exerts force on the inserter to automatically pull the intrauterine system into the insertion tube at the correct position before the physician even begins the insertion procedure. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for the physician to manually position the device, thereby achieving both ease of operation and precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The form acts as an intermediary mechanism between the package and the inserter. It transfers force to the inserter in a controlled manner, automatically positioning the intrauterine system within the insertion tube without requiring the physician to directly manipulate the device, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and positioning accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If the device is not drawn deep enough into the insertion tube, then the frame ends project outwardly making introduction more difficult, but if pulled too far then the edges of the insertion tube can damage the loop or the body
Solution Approach 1:
The form exerts a predetermined force that automatically draws the intrauterine system into the insertion tube to the exact correct depth before insertion. This preliminary action ensures the device is positioned optimally - not too shallow to cause difficulty and not too deep to cause damage - eliminating the need for the physician to judge the correct depth manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The package design incorporates a feedback mechanism where the form exerts force on the inserter until the intrauterine system reaches the correct position within the insertion tube. This automatic feedback-controlled positioning ensures the device is drawn in to the precise depth required, preventing both under-insertion and over-insertion damages.
3Ease of operation
If the intrauterine system is stored for an extended period in ready-for-insertion state, then it is convenient for use, but it might not properly retrieve its original shape due to memory effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the shape retrieval action automatically at the moment of use. The form exerts force on the inserter to pull the compressed intrauterine system into the insertion tube, at which point the device naturally retrieves its original T-shape. This eliminates the need for the device to maintain its shape during extended storage, as the shape retrieval happens automatically right before insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The intrauterine system automatically retrieves its original shape when pulled into the insertion tube by the form's force, without requiring any manual manipulation or activation by the physician. The device's shape memory effect is self-activated by the mechanical action of being drawn into the tube, making the system both convenient for storage and reliable for shape retention at the time of use.
4Ease of operation
If the slider is moved initially to the wrong direction, then the IUS is prematurely released and is thus unusable, but moving it correctly ensures proper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The form exerts force on the inserter in the correct direction automatically when the package is opened and removed from the container. This preliminary correct action ensures the slider moves in the proper direction to position the IUS correctly without requiring the physician to know or remember the correct direction, thereby preventing premature release while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The form acts as an intermediary that guides the slider movement in the correct direction. By exerting force through the inserter mechanism, the form ensures the slider moves properly to position the IUS, preventing user error while keeping the operation simple and intuitive for the physician.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an arrangement comprising an intrauterine system, an inserter for the intrauterine system and a package for the inserter, wherein the inserter comprises a handle having a first end and a second end, an insertion tube having a first end and a second end, first handling means for withdrawing the intrauterine system inside the insertion tube and second handling means for expulsing the intrauterine system from the insertion tube; and the package comprises a container, a cover arranged to close the container and means for actioning the first handling means of the inserter.