Releasable Fluid Controller for Insemination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infertility treatments, such as medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF), are invasive, costly, and often accompanied by undesirable side effects, with a significant portion of infertility cases attributed to low sperm count or motility.
Innovation Solution
The development of insemination devices comprising a fluid controller and a fluid introduction device, where the fluid controller is configured for removable attachment to the fluid introduction device, includes a fluid retention structure to inhibit fluid flow from the vaginal canal and connectors for easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fluid retention structure is added to the insemination device, then fluid retention capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a fluid introduction device (syringe) and a fluid controller with retention structures. This segmentation allows the retention function to be added without redesigning the entire system, and the components can be manufactured independently and assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid controller acts as an intermediary component between the syringe and the vaginal canal. It includes retention structures such as flaps, bulbs, or plugs that actively prevent fluid backflow, while also providing a connection interface for the syringe. This intermediary structure adds retention capability without requiring modification of the basic syringe design.
2Ease of operation
If the fluid controller is designed for removable attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of fluid retention may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed so that the fluid controller can be nested onto the syringe barrel through a frustoconical interface. The connector includes an outer surface that fits over the syringe barrel, creating a nested arrangement that is both easy to attach and provides a secure, reliable connection that maintains fluid retention integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector and syringe interface utilize curved or frustoconical surfaces rather than flat interfaces. This curvature provides natural alignment and engagement, making attachment intuitive and secure. The curved surfaces distribute contact forces evenly, ensuring reliable fluid retention while allowing easy attachment and detachment.
3Reliability
If the fluid retention structure expands upon detachment, then fluid retention capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid retention structure is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The retention structures (flaps, bulbs, or plugs) are configured to expand or change shape in response to pressure differential when the syringe is detached. This dynamic response provides enhanced fluid retention without requiring complex mechanical actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure utilizes changes in physical parameters (shape, volume, or position) in response to the attachment/detachment state. When the syringe is detached, the retention structure expands or moves to a configuration that provides optimal fluid retention. This parameter change is passive and driven by pressure differential, avoiding the need for complex control mechanisms.
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
These devices effectively retain insemination fluid within the vaginal canal, reducing leakage and promoting conception, while providing a safe, easy, and affordable treatment option that can be used frequently.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid retention structure is configured such that attachment of the fluid controller to the fluid introduction device causes a reduction in at least one dimension associated with the fluid retention structure
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are fluid controllers configured for removable attachment to a fluid introduction device, wherein the fluid controller comprises a body configured to extend at least partially over the fluid introduction device; an orifice arranged relative to the body to facilitate transfer of a fluid from the fluid introduction device through the fluid controller; a fluid retention structure extending outwardly from at least a portion of the body, wherein the fluid retention structure is configured to engage with a wall of a vaginal canal and inhibit a flow of the fluid from the vaginal canal; and at least one connector configured to releasably attach the fluid controller to the fluid introduction device.