Multi-Layer Odor Barrier Catheter Tube Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Catheter tubes for fecal drainage systems lack integral odor barrier properties due to the stiffness of odor barrier materials, which are not suitable for such applications, leading to exposure of unpleasant odors for patients and caregivers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered catheter tube design featuring a thin odor barrier layer, typically made of polyamide with a modifier, combined with a low-friction inner layer and optional semi-rigid mesh for durability, and paired with an odor barrier collection bag to minimize odor transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an odor barrier layer is added to the catheter tube, then odor transmission is prevented, but the tube wall thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a thin film odor barrier layer (3-10 mils thick) made of polyamide or other barrier materials to the catheter tube structure. This thin film approach provides effective odor and gas barrier properties while maintaining flexibility and minimizing thickness increase, directly resolving the contradiction between odor prevention and wall thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter tube is constructed as a composite structure combining multiple materials: an inner lubricious layer (silicone, polyurethane), a middle structural layer (polyester, polyamide), and an outer odor barrier layer (polyamide, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer). This composite material approach integrates odor barrier functionality with mechanical strength and flexibility requirements, achieving odor prevention without excessive thickness.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a multi-layer structure is implemented, then odor barrier properties are achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter tube is segmented into distinct functional layers: an inner lubricious layer for fecal matter flow, a middle structural layer for mechanical strength, and an outer odor barrier layer for gas prevention. Each layer is optimized for its specific function, and the segmentation allows independent selection and optimization of materials for each layer, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving complex functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The middle structural layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: providing mechanical strength, acting as a tie layer between the inner and outer layers, and contributing to overall tube flexibility. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized layers, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining odor barrier effectiveness.
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 multi-layered catheter tube effectively reduces odor exposure by maintaining a low coefficient of friction and durability while preventing gas transmission, enhancing patient and caregiver comfort and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
at least one layer is constructed of materials resistant to transmission of fecal and flatus gasses
Implementation Method 2
A third layer forming the innermost layer or inner skin of the catheter tube may also be employed. The third or innermost layer preferably has a low kinetic coefficient of friction, preferably less than 0.5
Implementation Method 3
at least one of the layers of the flat laminate sheet that is then rolled into a cylinder can be a semi-rigid mesh or scrim material
Data Source
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
A multi-layer odor barrier catheter tube (10) for a fecal drainage catheter. The external surface (14) has a low coefficient of friction, as does the internal surface (20). The layers of the catheter tube may be co-extruded, or formed as a heat-laminated film rolled into a cylindrical shape and heat-welded. A flexible scrim (42) may be included intermediate the first (12) and third layers (18). One or more tie layers may be included between at least one of the first and second layers (16), or the second and third layers. A combination of a multi-layer odor barrier catheter tube with an odor barrier collection bag (44) is also described.