Portable Urinary Flow Measurement Device with Capacitive Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing urinary flow measurement devices require static placement and delayed feedback, making it difficult for users to take measurements at home.
Innovation Solution
A portable flow measurement device with a void chamber, measurement chamber, and capacitive sensors that provides real-time feedback, allowing users to measure urinary flow while hanging at a predetermined angle and using a diverter to prevent turbulence, with a known outflow rate and electronic sensors for precise volume calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a portable flow measurement device is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may worsen due to lack of static placement
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static placement requirement to a portable, dynamically usable form factor. The measurement chamber and void chamber are designed to function accurately whether the device is held horizontally or at angles, enabling home use while maintaining measurement integrity through dynamic adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Capacitive sensors replace traditional mechanical level detection methods. These sensors can accurately measure fluid levels in the measurement chamber regardless of the device's orientation or position, maintaining measurement precision while enabling portable, dynamic use without requiring static placement on a surface.
2Loss of time
If real-time feedback is provided, then loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates capacitive sensors that continuously monitor fluid levels in the measurement chamber and provide real-time feedback on flow rate and volume. This immediate feedback is processed and displayed to the user during the measurement process, eliminating delays associated with manual reading or post-processing, while the integrated design keeps the overall system manageable.
3Measurement precision
If a diverter is added to prevent turbulence, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A diverter component is introduced as an intermediary element between the void chamber and measurement chamber. This diverter guides fluid flow smoothly from the void chamber into the measurement chamber, preventing turbulence and splashing that would compromise measurement accuracy. The diverter acts as a flow mediator that ensures laminar flow conditions without requiring complex additional systems.
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
Enables real-time measurement of urinary flow rates and volumes, providing immediate feedback and facilitating home use without the need for static placement, enhancing user convenience and clinical accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one capacitive sensor configured to measure a level of fluid in the measurement chamber
Implementation Method 2
A fluid path is defined through the upper opening, into the void chamber, through the at least one through opening, into the measurement chamber
Implementation Method 3
an exit orifice defined in the measurement container and configured to allow fluid to drain from the measurement chamber at a known outflow rate based on fluid level
Data Source
AI summary
A flow measurement device for assessing free surface fluid flow that includes a void container defining a void chamber and including an upper opening configured to receive the free surface fluid flow, a measurement container defining a measurement chamber in fluid communication with the void chamber via at least one through opening, an exit orifice defined in the measurement container and configured to allow fluid to drain from the measurement chamber at a known outflow rate based on fluid level, and at least one capacitive sensor configured to measure a level of fluid in the measurement chamber. A fluid path is defined through the upper opening, into the void chamber, through the at least one through opening, into the measurement chamber, and through the exit orifice.