Intravaginal Foetal Acoustic Stimulation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foetal stimulation devices are limited by a tissue barrier between the sound emission point and the foetus, reducing their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible, ovoid-shaped capsule with a playback system, speaker, and wireless communication for emitting acoustic stimulation signals directly adjacent to the foetus, using a removable and hygienic design with sound pressure limiting features, and an extraction cord for secure placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If acoustic stimulation signals are emitted through external application against the abdominal wall, then the device is easy to apply and remove, but the effectiveness is limited by the tissue barrier between the sound emission point and the foetus' ear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intravaginal probe as an intermediary device that places the acoustic stimulation source much closer to the foetus through the vagina, bypassing the abdominal wall tissue barrier. This mediator enables direct transmission of acoustic signals to the foetus without having to penetrate the abdominal wall, thus improving effectiveness while maintaining relative ease of application and removal.
2Reliability
If the device is designed for intravaginal insertion adjacent to the foetus, then the acoustic stimulation effectiveness is improved by minimizing tissue interference, but the device requires biocompatible materials and hygienic design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by selecting biocompatible materials (such as medical-grade plastics or silicones) that are safe for intravaginal contact. This parameter change ensures both the effectiveness of acoustic delivery and the safety requirements for internal use, resolving the contradiction between performance and manufacturability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the capsule is designed as a single piece, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but it is more difficult to clean and maintain hygiene
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the capsule into multiple separable parts (such as a removable head section or detachable components) that can be easily cleaned and sterilized independently. This segmentation allows for thorough hygiene maintenance while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple, as each component can be produced using standard molding techniques and then assembled.
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
Enhances the delivery of acoustic stimulation signals directly to the foetus, improving prenatal stimulation efficacy and comfort by minimizing tissue interference and ensuring safe sound pressure levels.
Implementation Method 1
a playback system for a predetermined acoustic stimulation signal, complete with control software and a speaker
Implementation Method 2
a means of wireless communication with the exterior using a remate control to give instructions to the playback system via an RF wireless signal
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
An acoustic foetal stimulation device comprising a capsule (2) enclosing the means of emitting (10) acoustic stimulation signals, manufactured in a biocompatible (hygienic) maternal and with a size and shape suitable for removable insertion in the vagina, in a position adjacent to the foetus, and an extraction cord (20) for removing the device (1). The means of emitting (10) the acoustic signals comprises a playback system (12, 13) for a predetermined acoustic stimulation signal, complete with control software and a speaker (11), and a means of wireless communication with the exterior using a remote control to give instructions to the playback system via an RF wireless signal.