Self-Insertion IUD Device with Visual Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Access to intrauterine device (IUD) insertion and removal services is limited in underserved communities due to lack of access to medical clinics or physicians.
Innovation Solution
Development of self-insertion and self-removal devices and kits that allow patients or their partners to perform IUD insertion and removal in remote locations, assisted by local healthcare promoters, nurse practitioners, friends, or relatives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional IUD insertion and removal services are provided only in medical clinics, then medical supervision and safety are ensured, but accessibility to contraception is limited in underserved communities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables patients to perform IUD insertion and removal themselves using self-insertion and self-removal devices. The self-insertion device includes a loading mechanism with arms that can be opened and closed by the user, while the self-removal device uses a grabber mechanism with petals that open and close to grasp the IUD. This self-service approach eliminates the need for clinic visits, dramatically improving accessibility while maintaining safety through proper device design and instructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces self-insertion and self-removal devices as intermediaries between the patient and the IUD. These devices mediate the insertion and removal processes, allowing patients to safely handle and deploy IUDs without direct medical intervention. The devices include features like visual tools (lights, cameras) and tactile feedback mechanisms that guide users through the process, ensuring safety while improving accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If self-insertion and self-removal devices are developed for remote use, then accessibility to contraception is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-insertion and self-removal devices are divided into distinct functional modules: a handle for user control, a shaft for insertion, arms or petals for grasping and manipulating the IUD, and visual tools for guidance. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining the capability for safe self-insertion and self-removal in remote locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical manipulation mechanisms with simpler visual guidance systems. Visual tools such as lights and cameras provide real-time feedback to users, eliminating the need for complex tactile feedback mechanisms or sophisticated mechanical guides. This substitution reduces device complexity while improving ease of operation for users in remote settings.
3Measurement precision
If visual tools such as lights and cameras are integrated into the devices, then insertion and removal accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The visual tools (lights and cameras) integrated into the self-insertion and self-removal devices serve multiple functions: they illuminate the insertion path, capture images for verification, and provide real-time feedback to users. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering significant improvements in insertion and removal accuracy while also enabling users to verify proper IUD placement without additional devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and kits for self-insertion and self-removal of an IUD device. Devices include a handle.