T-Shaped Perineal Pad With Integrated Ice Pouch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current perineal therapy solutions for postpartum care involve the use of multiple pads and ice packs, leading to inadequate absorption, uneven coverage, and patient concern about excessive bleeding, due to the lack of a unified, effective device that combines cooling and absorbency.
Innovation Solution
A body-contoured, T-shaped pad assembly with an integrated ice pack and absorbent layers designed for comfort and mobility, featuring an impermeable outer cover, a wicking inner cover, and an ice pouch between the layers, which accepts ice chips for targeted cooling and high absorbency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If multiple pads and ice packs are used simultaneously, then cooling effect is improved, but absorption effectiveness deteriorates due to inadequate fluid retention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (absorbent pad and ice pack) into a single integrated perineal therapy device. The absorbent body is positioned between the first and second covers, with the ice pack contained within the second cover, creating a unified structure that simultaneously provides both cooling and absorption functions without the need for multiple separate items.
2Area of stationary object
If improvised pad constructions are used, then coverage attempt is improved, but uniformity and performance deteriorate due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal, standardized perineal therapy device that can be consistently manufactured and applied. The device includes a first cover with an opening for perineal access, an absorbent body positioned within, and a second cover containing an ice pack, creating a reproducible multi-functional unit that addresses both absorption and cooling needs uniformly across different patients and applications.
3Quantity of substance
If three different pads are worn simultaneously, then absorption capacity is improved, but device complexity and patient comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate pads into a single integrated device. The first cover provides external protection and structure, the absorbent body positioned between the covers handles fluid absorption, and the second cover with the ice pack provides cooling, all within one unified perineal therapy device that eliminates the need for wearing multiple separate pads.
4Temperature
If standard ice packs are used, then cooling function is improved, but integration with absorbency and coverage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the ice pack function with the absorbent and protective components into a single coordinated system. The ice pack is contained within the second cover, which is positioned to work in conjunction with the absorbent body between the covers and the first cover with perineal opening, creating a versatile integrated therapy device that adapts to provide both cooling and absorption simultaneously.
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 solution provides effective fluid retention, comfort, and dignity for patients by combining cooling and absorbency in a single, cost-effective pad assembly, reducing the need for frequent changes and ensuring sanitary conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an inner cover configured to wick a bodily fluid
Implementation Method 2
an ice pouch disposed between the perineal portion of the outer cover and the perineal portion of the inner cover, the ice pouch including an opening disposed proximate a ventral edge of the of the perineal pad assembly, the opening sized to accept ice chips
Implementation Method 3
an absorbent body formed from a highly absorbent material and disposed between the ice pouch and the inner cover
Data Source
AI summary
A body-contoured, T-shaped pad is designed to treat trauma to the perineal region of a new mother or other patient. The pad design may include specially designed T-shaped pad portions, an integrated ice pack, and relative positioning of the layers which combine to provide both cooling properties and proper absorption. For example, the pad includes an absorptive layer next to the skin, with an ice bag next to the absorptive layer which is designed to accept ice chips from commonly available ice machines found in hospital settings. The size and configuration of the pad assembly is designed for comfort, mobility, and compatibility with a patient's own undergarments. This design provides a cost-effective, single pad assembly which combines infection control with proper absorbency, provides high levels of patient comfort, and protects the dignity of the patient.