Removable Ostomy Pouch Vent Assembly for Odor-Filtered Gas Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ostomy pouch systems fail to provide a removable and reusable vent system that effectively releases gas while allowing for additional accessories and filter options, leading to discomfort due to gas buildup.
Innovation Solution
A vent system comprising a valve assembly with a plunger component, spring component, and sealing components, affixed to a flange on the ostomy pouch, allowing for removable and reusable operation, and optionally incorporating a filter for odor control and moisture management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a charcoal filter is used to allow gas to escape, then gas venting is improved, but the filter gets blocked with moisture from inside the pouch
Solution Approach 1:
The vent system is divided into separate components: a removable vent assembly that can be detached from the pouch, allowing the filter portion to be separated for cleaning or replacement. This segmentation prevents moisture buildup that would block the filter, as the filter can be removed and cleaned independently of the pouch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The vent system transitions from a static, permanently attached filter to a dynamic, removable vent assembly. The vent assembly can be attached, removed, and reattached as needed, allowing users to clean or replace the filter component based on moisture accumulation, thereby maintaining reliable gas venting functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a gaseous vent is secured to the pouch at manufacture or inserted prior to use, then gas venting is provided, but there is no means for the vent to be removed for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The vent system is segmented into a removable vent assembly and the pouch body. The vent assembly includes a filter component that can be detached from the pouch through a flange connection, enabling easy removal for cleaning or replacement without damaging the pouch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The vent assembly is designed as a universal, multi-functional component that can be removed for cleaning, replaced if needed, and potentially used with different pouch types. The standardized flange connection allows the same vent assembly to serve multiple purposes and be interchangeable across different ostomy pouch systems.
3Ease of repair
If the vent system is removable and reusable, then cleaning and interchangeability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vent system is divided into modular segments: a flange component that attaches to the pouch and a vent assembly that can be removed and reattached. This segmentation enables easy cleaning and interchangeability while keeping each individual component relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange and vent assembly are designed to combine into a unified connection system that provides both secure attachment and easy removal. The merging of these components creates a standardized interface that simplifies the overall system while enabling the desired removability and cleaning capabilities.
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 system effectively relieves gas pressure, preventing pouch inflation, and allows for easy cleaning and interchangeability with other medical devices, enhancing user comfort and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a spring component, and a plunger component... responsive to a force exerted on a first end of the plunger component
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A system for use in venting a gas from an interior of an ostomy collection pouch is described. The system is removable and/or reusable in other medical devices. A flange is configured to affix the system to a hole in a wall of the ostomy collection pouch. The flange may have a straight or a curved configuration. In examples, the flange has a 90 degree configuration. Further, the system includes a manual or a passive filter to remove odor from the gas.