Spool Valve Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Fluid Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflatable penile prostheses have complex fluid transfer systems and deflate mechanisms that can be cumbersome and require multiple components implanted both inside and outside the corpora cavernosa, leading to potential complications and reduced ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A spool valve assembly is used to direct fluid into and evacuate fluid from inflatable penile cylinders, integrated with a multifunctional fluid reservoir and deflate mechanism, allowing for a simpler and more efficient fluid transfer system that can be implanted in various configurations, including two-piece and three-piece designs, with flexible tubing providing communication between components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluid transfer systems and deflate mechanisms are used in inflatable penile prostheses, then the device can perform inflation and deflation functions, but the system becomes complex and cumbersome requiring multiple components implanted both inside and outside the corpora cavernosa
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid transfer system and deflate mechanism into a single integrated pump assembly that is implanted within the corpora cavernosa. The pump housing contains both the inflation port and deflation mechanism, with the inflatable bladder positioned inside the same housing. This merging of previously separate components (fluid transfer pump, deflate mechanism, and reservoir) into one unitary assembly reduces the number of implantation sites and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump assembly serves multiple functions within a single device: it acts as both the fluid transfer pump for inflation and houses the deflation mechanism. The housing itself provides structural support and containment for the bladder, while also serving as the implantation unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reservoirs and external pump components, thereby reducing system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are implanted both inside and outside the corpora cavernosa, then the device can provide comprehensive functionality, but the ease of use and implantation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating the fluid transfer pump, deflate mechanism, and fluid reservoir into a single pump assembly that is entirely implanted within the corpora cavernosa, the procedure is simplified. The surgeon implants one integrated unit rather than multiple separate components, reducing surgical time and potential complications associated with multiple implantation sites.
3Device complexity
If a simpler fluid transfer system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and efficiency of fluid transfer may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable bladder is designed to automatically return to its deflated state after inflation by collapsing under its own weight and elastic recovery, eliminating the need for an active deflation pump or complex valve mechanisms. This self-deflating feature simplifies the system while maintaining reliable fluid transfer, as the bladder's inherent elasticity provides the deflation force without requiring additional powered components.
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
This configuration simplifies the implantation and operation of inflatable penile prostheses, reducing complexity and potential complications while enhancing user control and efficiency in achieving and maintaining erections.
Implementation Method 1
a spool valve assembly in fluid communication with the fluid transfer bulb and at least one inflatable penile cylinder
Implementation Method 2
The cylinder deflate mechanism evacuates fluid from the penile cylinders to the reservoir and includes the deflate actuator, return valve and spool valve assembly
Implementation Method 3
Flexible tubing provides fluid communication between the inflatable penile cylinders, the fluid transfer system and the cylinder deflate mechanism incorporated in the multifunctional reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
According to various embodiments, an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) includes a rigidly constructed spool valve assembly that is used to direct fluid into and evacuate fluid out of the inflatable penile cylinders. The fluid transfer system transfers fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable penile cylinders and includes the fluid transfer bulb, inlet valve, exhaust valve and spool valve assembly. The cylinder deflate mechanism evacuates fluid from the penile cylinders to the reservoir and includes the deflate actuator, return valve and spool valve assembly.