IUD Inserter with Automatic String Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intrauterine device (IUD) insertion mechanisms require additional time and involve complex locking mechanisms and string handling, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A simplified inserter design featuring a handle with a longitudinal opening, a movable switch, and a flexible insertion tube that allows for easy positioning and secure installation of IUDs within the uterus, eliminating the need for manual string handling through a safety knob and string release mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms and string handling procedures are used, then the IUD can be securely locked and positioned, but the insertion process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the string handling function from the insertion mechanism by providing a pre-cut string that is already attached to the IUD. The string is held in a designated slot during insertion and automatically released when the insertion tube is withdrawn, eliminating the need for manual string cutting and handling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The string is pre-cut to the required length before insertion, and the insertion tube is pre-loaded with the IUD and string assembly. The string is positioned in advance in the designated slot, so that during insertion the string is automatically positioned and released without requiring additional manual operations.
2Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms with gears are used, then the string can be held securely, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the gear mechanism entirely from the design. Instead of using gears to hold and release the string, the invention uses a simple slot-based system where the string is held in place during insertion and automatically released when the insertion tube is withdrawn, dramatically simplifying the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The string release mechanism is self-acting - it automatically releases the string when the insertion tube is withdrawn, without requiring any additional manual operations or complex locking mechanisms. The system uses the withdrawal motion itself to trigger the string release.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual string cutting is required, then the string length can be adjusted, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The string is pre-cut to the required length before the insertion procedure. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual string cutting during the procedure, making the operation simpler and faster while still allowing for appropriate string length selection based on patient requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tube with the attached string is designed as a single-use disposable device. The string is pre-attached and pre-cut, and the entire assembly is discarded after one use, eliminating the need for complex reusable mechanisms and sterilization procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An inserter is provided which includes a handle having an upper cover and a bottom cover, the upper cover having a longitudinal opening, a proximal end and a distal end; a mounting member extending from an inner surface of the bottom cover of the handle, the mounting member having a through-hole; an inner tube having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the inner tube attached to the mounting member; an insertion tube movably coupled to the inner tube with a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the inner tube; a switch coupled to a proximal end of the insertion tube and arranged in the opening; and a string having a proximal end removably coupled near the proximal end of the opening, a distal end of the string coupled to a device to be inserted inside a human anatomy.