Passive Artificial Sphincter Using Tension Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial sphincters are invasive due to their complex components and require patient input for control, which can be difficult for some patients, especially in applications like urinary or fecal incontinence.
Innovation Solution
A passive artificial sphincter design comprising a tension member within a biocompatible outer sleeve, using a tension spring or multiple short tension members to apply a constrictive force without patient input, with connectors to form an artificial sphincter ring around a lumen, allowing for natural expansion in response to internal pressure to facilitate material flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an active artificial sphincter with reservoir and pump is used, then effective occlusion control is achieved, but device complexity and invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the reservoir and pump components from the artificial sphincter system, retaining only the essential cuff component that provides occlusion. This extraction of non-essential components directly reduces device complexity and invasiveness while preserving the core occlusion function through alternative passive mechanical means
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components (cuff, reservoir, pump, tubing) into a single integrated passive mechanical structure. The spring-loaded cuff combines the occlusion function with automatic pressure regulation and release mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate reservoir and pump components
2Reliability
If an active artificial sphincter requiring patient input is used, then occlusion control is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates for some patients
Solution Approach 1:
The passive artificial sphincter operates autonomously without requiring patient activation or control input. The spring-loaded mechanism automatically maintains occlusion pressure and releases when internal pressure exceeds the spring force, making the device self-regulating and eliminating the need for patient interaction with pumps or controls
3Device complexity
If a passive artificial sphincter with tension spring is used, then device complexity is reduced, but constriction force control may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the elastic properties of spring material to generate and regulate constriction force. By selecting appropriate spring constants and pre-compression forces, the device achieves effective occlusion pressure without requiring complex active control systems, pumps, or reservoirs to maintain force
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 passive artificial sphincter reduces invasiveness and complexity of implantation, allows for natural patient control, and provides effective occlusion and release of lumens without requiring patient input, enhancing the inconspicuousness and reliability of the device.
Implementation Method 1
The tension member has a tension spring that has a longitudinal axis. The tension spring resists expansion along the longitudinal axis.
Implementation Method 2
The artificial sphincter ring is expanded in response to internal pressure within the lumen.
Data Source
AI summary
A passive artificial sphincter includes a tension member, an outer sleeve, and a connecter. The tension member has first and second ends. The outer sleeve contains the tension member and is formed of a biocompatible material. The connecter is configured to couple the first and second ends together to form an artificial sphincter ring. The artificial sphincter ring is configured for implantation around the lumen to provide passive constriction of the lumen.In a method, an artificial sphincter comprising a tension member contained within an outer sleeve is positioned around a lumen of a patient. The lumen is constricted responsive to the tension in the tension member. The passage of material through the lumen and past the artificial sphincter ring is resisted responsive to the constriction of the lumen.