Shape Memory Urethral Clamp for Low-Complication Continence Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical interventions for male urinary incontinence suffer from complications such as erosion, urethral atrophy, and infection, leading to mechanical failures and the need for frequent reintervention, while non-surgical treatments are inadequate.

Innovation Solution

A urethral continence device using a shape memory alloy clamp actuated by a power source, which closes at ambient temperature to prevent urine leakage and opens with heat application for urination, featuring a biocompatible sleeve and optional wireless activation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If surgical intervention is used to treat male urinary incontinence, then continence control is improved, but complications such as erosion, urethral atrophy, and infection increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinence controlVSAvoiderosion, urethral atrophy, and infection

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical surgical interventions with a shape memory alloy-based device that uses thermal activation instead of complex mechanical structures. The shape memory effect allows the device to change its mechanical properties through temperature control, reducing the need for invasive mechanical surgery that causes tissue erosion and atrophy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the operating parameter from mechanical force to temperature control. By using shape memory alloy that responds to temperature changes, the device can adjust its clamping force dynamically without requiring mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing tissue damage and infection risk associated with traditional surgical implants.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If traditional surgical devices are used, then continence management is achieved, but mechanical failures occur requiring frequent reintervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinence managementVSAvoiddevice durability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates traditional mechanical components such as screws, joints, and moving parts by using shape memory alloy's inherent ability to change shape and force output through temperature control. This solid-state actuation mechanism has no moving parts to fail, significantly extending device durability and eliminating the need for reintervention due to mechanical failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape memory alloy device can autonomously adjust its clamping force in response to temperature changes without requiring external mechanical adjustment or replacement. The material's self actuating capability through thermal stimulation provides long-term reliable operation without mechanical wear or failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a shape memory alloy clamp is used to control the urethra, then continence control is improved, but the clamp may constrict blood flow to the urethra

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinence controlVSAvoidblood flow constriction

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic control system where the shape memory alloy clamp's force output can be adjusted in real-time through temperature control. This allows the device to apply sufficient force for continence control while reducing force when blood flow monitoring indicates potential constriction issues, creating a balanced and adaptive system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention incorporates a feedback mechanism that monitors physiological parameters such as blood flow and tissue health. This feedback information is used to adjust the activation temperature and duration of the shape memory alloy, ensuring that continence control is maintained while preventing harmful constriction of blood flow to the urethra.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

Provides a reliable, minimally invasive solution with reduced complications, requiring only a single incision and no mechanical parts prone to failure, enhancing urethral continence management.

Implementation Method 1

The clamp is formed from a shape memory material. The clamp is in a closed position at ambient temperature and opens when the temperature of the clamp is increased.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

A power source is used to actuate the clamp. The power source is configured to deliver a current of 4.95 Amps to the clamp. The clamp is configured to open when the current of 4.95 Amps is applied to the clamp.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS20260041538A1Shape memory alloy urethral continence device

Publication Date: 2026.02.12 JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

AI summary

A clamp formed from a shape memory metal promotes and manages urethral continence. A method for insertion of the clamp is also included, herein. The clamp can be surrounded by a sleeve. A power source is used to actuate the clamp. The clamp is positioned around the urethra, and in its resting state the clamp is closed to prevent the flow of urine. When the user wants to release the flow of urine, power is applied to the clamp to heat the shape memory material. Heating the shape memory material, allows the clamp to open and release the flow of urine. When the user wants to stop the flow of urine, the power source is turned off and the clamp returns to its closed position.