Ostomy Wafer Leak Detection via Sensor Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ostomy systems lack effective leak detection and monitoring capabilities, which can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and increased risk of infection.
Innovation Solution
An ostomy wafer with a sensor layer containing leak sensors and temperature sensors, coupled with a hardware processor that detects leakage and inflammation by analyzing signals from the sensors, and an ostomy bag with integrated sensors and a hardware processor that monitors effluent volume, leak, and other parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If leak sensors are integrated into the ostomy wafer, then leak detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wafer is divided into multiple functional zones with leak sensors positioned at specific locations (e.g., peripheral region, quadrants) to detect leaks in different areas. This segmentation allows the system to detect leak location while keeping individual sensor units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
A processor unit acts as an intermediary between the leak sensors and the control unit. The processor receives signals from multiple leak sensors, processes the data, and determines leak location, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are integrated into the ostomy bag, then monitoring precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor layer in the ostomy bag is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting leak, measuring effluent volume, monitoring temperature, and detecting skin conditions. This multi-functionality allows a single integrated sensor system to provide comprehensive monitoring without requiring separate devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor types are nested within the same wafer and bag structure. The sensor layer includes leak sensors, temperature sensors, and other monitoring sensors that are integrated into the wafer assembly, allowing compact arrangement of multiple monitoring functions in a unified structure.
3Ease of operation
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then user comfort is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs sensor readings and data processing at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The processor activates sensor readings at predetermined time intervals to monitor for leaks and skin conditions, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes alert notifications that automatically inform the user when leaks or skin conditions are detected, eliminating the need for constant user checking. This self-monitoring and self-alerting mechanism improves user comfort by providing timely information without requiring active user engagement.
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 solution provides real-time monitoring and alert systems for leaks and inflammation, improving user comfort, reducing skin irritation, and enabling early intervention to prevent infections.
Implementation Method 1
the leak sensors being in an open-circuit configuration, wherein contact with moisture or liquid can be configured to complete a leak detection circuit
Implementation Method 2
the ostomy wafer can further include an accelerometer. the hardware processor can be further configured to determine a location and/or direction of a leak based on at least one signal from at least one of the leak sensors and data from the accelerometer
Data Source
AI summary
A maintenance bag of an ostomy system can include fewer sensors than a diagnostic or analytic ostomy bag that is typically used for newer users. The maintenance bag can include sensors and electronics to detect fill level of the bag. The maintenance bag can also include a bag sealing mechanism that can detect drainage events and help the user to track inventory of the bags. A wafer that can be used with an ostomy bag can include leak sensors configured to detect leak of effluent via a single opening in the hydrocolloid layer that interfaces with skin of a user. The wafer can also include temperature sensors configured to detect inflammation. The wafer can further include a convex interface for better fit with certain users.