Portable Fluid Collection Pad with Pumped Serpentine Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid collection devices, such as bed pans and urinary catheters, are uncomfortable, prone to spills, and can cause urinary tract infections, and are limited to use when a patient is confined to a bed in a supine position, failing to meet the needs of individuals with limited mobility or restricted travel conditions.
Innovation Solution
A portable fluid collection system comprising a fluid collection pad with a cushion, a fluid collection container, and a tube connected to a pump, allowing for discreet and mobile fluid collection, including a serpentine tube arrangement within the container to enhance fluid distribution and absorption, and a pump for efficient fluid transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bed pans are used for fluid collection, then fluid collection capability is provided, but comfort and hygiene are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional components: a wearable cushion portion that contacts the user, a flexible collection bag for fluid storage, and a pump system for fluid transfer. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the cushion for comfort and hygiene, the bag for collection efficiency, and the pump for active management.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump acts as an intermediary between the collection bag and disposal system, actively managing fluid transfer. This intermediary component enables the device to maintain comfort and hygiene by preventing fluid accumulation in the cushion area while ensuring reliable collection capability.
2Ease of operation
If urinary catheters are used for fluid collection, then fluid collection is achieved, but user comfort and health risks worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the collection function from the interface with the user. The catheter or collection device remains minimal and non-invasive, while the bulk of the system (bag and pump) is external. This segmentation eliminates the need for long-term catheterization, reducing discomfort and infection risk while maintaining collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system automatically manages fluid transfer from the collection bag, reducing the need for manual intervention and monitoring. This self-service capability improves user comfort by eliminating the need for frequent catheter care and reduces infection risk through automated, closed-system operation.
3Ease of operation
If conventional fluid collection devices are used, then fluid collection is provided, but mobility and portability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from static, bed-bound designs to a dynamic, wearable system. The flexible collection bag and portable pump allow the user to move freely between supine, seated, and ambulatory positions while maintaining fluid collection functionality. The system adapts to different positions and activities rather than requiring the user to adapt to the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform fluid collection across multiple positions and settings - whether the user is in bed, seated in a chair, or mobile. The wearable cushion and portable pump configuration enables the same device to serve multiple functions and positions, greatly enhancing adaptability and versatility.
4Productivity
If active fluid management is implemented, then fluid collection efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump utilizes pneumatic or hydraulic principles to move fluid from the collection bag. By leveraging these physical principles rather than complex mechanical systems, the device achieves efficient active fluid management with relatively simple components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
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 system provides discreet, comfortable, and mobile fluid collection, enabling users to collect fluid both at home and on the go, reducing discomfort and hygiene issues while maintaining privacy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The pump may be configured to draw fluid from the fluid collection device through the tube and into the fluid collection container
Implementation Method 2
a fluid collection container with an absorbent portion disposed therein. The second portion of the tube is perforated and is disposed in a serpentine arrangement throughout the fluid collection container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Embodiments relate to devices, systems, and methods for collecting fluid, such as bodily fluid. An example fluid collection system may include a fluid collection device for collecting fluid from a subject and a fluid collection pad. The fluid collection pad may include a cushion, a fluid collection container having an absorbent portion disposed therein. The fluid collection container may be disposed within the cushion and a tube having a first portion configured to couple to the fluid collection device and a second portion may be disposed within the fluid collection container. The second portion of the tube may be perforated.