Ostomy Pouch Outlet Kink-Line Closure for Leak-Free Draining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainable ostomy pouches face difficulties in opening and closing the discharge opening effectively, leading to potential leaks and inadequate sealing.
Innovation Solution
A drainable pouch with closure members featuring kink lines that allow easy opening and secure closure, facilitated by flexible materials and a securing mechanism, providing tactile feedback for leak-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the discharge opening is sealed with closure means, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in opening and closing
Solution Approach 1:
The closure member incorporates a kink line that enables dynamic transformation between a straight configuration (for secure sealing) and a bent configuration (for easy opening). This dynamic feature allows the closure to transition between locked and unlocked states, resolving the contradiction between maintaining reliable seals and enabling easy operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The kink line changes the physical state of the closure member from straight to bent, altering its mechanical properties. When bent at the kink line, the closure member becomes easier to open while still maintaining sealing capability, thus resolving the contradiction between sealing reliability and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the outlet is made foldable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to complexity in maintaining proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet is divided into multiple foldable sections with defined fold lines, allowing controlled movement while maintaining alignment. The closure member is positioned at specific locations to ensure proper alignment during folding operations, resolving the contradiction between ease of folding and manufacturing precision.
3Ease of operation
If the closure member is made flexible, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength deteriorates due to potential deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The closure member has different mechanical properties at different locations: the kink line region is designed to be flexible for easy bending, while other regions maintain sufficient strength for sealing. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction between flexibility and structural strength.
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
Ensures easy and reliable opening and closing of the pouch outlet, reducing the risk of leaks and ensuring a secure seal.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one closure member may be configured to bend in the direction away from the surface of the outlet when opening the outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A drainable pouch includes a barrier side wall, a distal wall, an outlet, at least one closure member located on and attached to a surface of the outlet and having a kink line extending across the closure member and protruding in a direction away from the surface of the outlet. The barrier side wall and the distal side wall are joined along at least a portion of their peripheral edges to define a cavity and the outlet. The at least one closure member is configured to bend in the direction away from the surface of the outlet when opening the outlet.