Intravaginal Device Radial Seal Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gynecological devices often have rigid rims that complicate insertion and removal, and may not effectively seal against the vaginal wall, leading to inefficiencies in fluid collection and substance release.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible and expandable intravaginal device with a cup-shaped structure and axially extending elements that apply an outward radial force to create a seal against the vaginal wall, without a continuous rigid rim at the open end, facilitating easier insertion and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a continuous rigid rim is used at the open end of the device, then structural strength is improved, but insertion and removal difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous rigid rim is divided into multiple discrete axially extending elements that are spaced apart from each other. These segmented elements maintain structural strength while allowing the device to be compressed and expanded, facilitating easier insertion and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static rigid rim structure to a dynamic structure where the axially extending elements can move relative to each other. The elements are predisposed to expand radially outward but can be compressed inward, enabling the device to adapt its shape for insertion and then expand to provide sealing force during use.
2Reliability
If a rigid rim structure is used, then sealing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is achieved through multiple discrete axially extending elements rather than a continuous rigid rim. Each element independently applies radial outward force to the vaginal wall to create seals at multiple locations, providing reliable sealing while simplifying the overall structure by eliminating the need for a continuous rigid component.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a flexible membrane spanning between the axially extending elements instead of a rigid rim structure. This flexible membrane works in conjunction with the elements to create sealing engagement with the vaginal wall, reducing structural complexity while maintaining sealing capability.
3Ease of operation
If the device is made collapsible, then ease of insertion is improved, but structural stability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with dynamic characteristics, being predisposed to expand from a compressed state to an expanded state. The axially extending elements are configured to automatically expand radially outward upon insertion, transitioning from a stable compressed configuration (for insertion) to a stable expanded configuration (for sealing and function), maintaining structural stability in both states.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-compressed into a compact form suitable for insertion before use. Once inserted into the vaginal cavity, it automatically expands to its functional configuration, with the axially extending elements radially outwardly predisposed to expand and create sealing engagement with the vaginal wall, ensuring structural stability is achieved automatically after insertion.
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 effectively seals against the vaginal wall, allowing for efficient fluid collection and substance release, while its collapsible design simplifies insertion and removal, enhancing user comfort and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The axially extending elements are radially outwardly predisposed to expand... the axially extending elements apply an outward radial force sufficient to stretch the vaginal wall and create a seal
Data Source
AI summary
An intravaginal device includes arms that pivot from a proximal base, and struts, each of which has a first end coupled to a shaft arranged to slide in a tube and a second end coupled to one of the arms. A string is coupled to the shaft and arranged for pulling in a proximal direction to deploy the arms so that the struts point radially outwards and tautly hold the arms in an expanded position. A payload component is coupled to a portion of the device, which is exposed to a vaginal wall and/or a fluid present in a vaginal canal of the wearer of the intravaginal device. The payload component has at least one sensor for sensing a biological feature associated with the wearer of the intravaginal device.