Integrated Pump Control Unit for Anal Irrigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Anal irrigation systems for individuals with spinal cord injuries face challenges due to complex device configurations and high costs associated with disposable parts, particularly in providing effective peristaltic stimulation and liquid displacement.
Innovation Solution
A pump with an integrated control unit that simplifies operations by reducing the number of parts and incorporating all valves and controls, allowing easy air direction between a balloon, reservoir bag, and evacuation, featuring a handle for activation and an overpressure release valve to prevent bag bursting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate control unit and pump are used, then control functions are available, but device complexity and number of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is integrated directly into the pump housing, combining two previously separate components (pump and control unit) into a single unified device. This reduces the number of parts while maintaining all control functions, directly resolving the contradiction between operational capability and device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connections are used, then functional flexibility is maintained, but system reliability decreases and error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection points and control elements are integrated into the unified pump structure, reducing the number of external connections required. This integration minimizes connection failure points while preserving functional flexibility through the design of the integrated control interface
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used, then functional capabilities are available, but cost of disposable parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of control unit and pump reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation reduces manufacturing complexity and material costs, particularly for disposable portions of the system, while maintaining full control capabilities
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 integrated pump control unit reduces system complexity, enhances user accessibility, and lowers the cost of disposable parts by minimizing the number of components, while ensuring safe and effective anal irrigation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
Pumping means are provided for pumping gas into the reservoir to transfer the irrigation liquid from the reservoir to the probe
Implementation Method 2
The anal probe is typically retained in the rectum by retention means, most commonly a balloon, which is inflated against the wall of the rectum
Data Source
AI summary
A pump for use in anal irrigation includes a control unit integrated in the pump. The control unit includes a cylindrical housing element and a valve element fitted in the housing. The valve element and the housing element are adapted for rotating with respect to each other between a position allowing the pump to pump air into a balloon, a position allowing the pump to pump air into a reservoir bag and an evacuation position. The control unit is actuated by a handle attached to the rotatable valve element. The handle extends radially out from the rotatable valve element and the cylindrical housing.