Silicone Conception Dome With Collapsible Ribs for Cervical Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conception devices face challenges such as semen damage from latex materials, inconsistent results for women with short or tilted cervixes, and inability to freeze and transport semen, while also limiting normal physical activity and providing inconsistent results due to the design of the dome bunching on the side of the cervix.
Innovation Solution
A conception device with a dome and annular rim made of a silicone-based material, featuring a collapsible sidewall and integral dome rib, which includes spiral or ring ribs for stability and is designed to maintain semen concentration near the cervical os, allowing for secure positioning and removal without limiting physical activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latex device is used to prevent pregnancy, then contraceptive effectiveness is improved, but semen damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from latex to silicone-based material, which eliminates the harmful chemical interaction with semen while maintaining the mechanical functionality of the contraceptive device. This material substitution resolves the contradiction by preserving contraceptive effectiveness without causing semen damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses silicone-based composite materials that combine the necessary mechanical properties for contraceptive function with biocompatibility that does not harm semen. The composite material structure allows the device to maintain its shape and securing capability while being non-damaging to sperm cells.
2Quantity of substance
If the dome is designed to contain semen, then semen concentration near cervix is improved, but the dome bunches on the side of the cervix when vagina goes from actual to potential space
Solution Approach 1:
The dome is segmented into multiple lobes or compartments that can independently adjust to the cervical shape. This segmentation allows the dome to conform to the cervix without bunching, maintaining stable position while still containing and concentrating semen effectively near the cervical os.
Solution Approach 2:
The dome is designed with dynamic flexibility that allows it to adapt its shape as the vagina transitions between actual and potential spaces. The material and structure enable the dome to move and reshape without bunching, maintaining both semen concentration and positional stability throughout the menstrual cycle.
3Reliability
If the device is secured over the cervix to concentrate semen, then fertilization chances are improved, but normal physical activity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a flexible thin-film construction that conforms to the cervical anatomy and moves with the body during normal physical activity. This flexibility allows the device to remain securely positioned for effective semen concentration while not restricting the user's range of motion or comfort during daily activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements that adapt to bodily movements and changes in the vaginal-cervical complex during physical activity. The flexible, movable components maintain securing effectiveness throughout various positions and activities, resolving the contradiction between fertilization reliability and physical freedom.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a conception device is provided for women with short or tilted cervixes, then adaptability is improved, but consistent results are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The device features local variations in its structure and material properties that can be customized or adapted to different cervical geometries. The dome can be shaped or sized specifically for short or tilted cervixes, while the securing mechanism is designed to maintain consistent positioning and semen concentration regardless of cervical orientation, achieving both adaptability and reliable results.
Data Source
AI summary
A conception device includes a dome having a collapsible sidewall, an annular rim, an integral dome rib, and three or more gripping flanges along the inner surface of the rim. The gripping flanges may effectively position and secure the device over the cervix for the concentration of semen on the cervical os to effect fertilization independently or with the aid of biologically active agents. The device may additionally include a handle extending from the annular rim at an angle.