Urethral Compression Strap for Urinary Incontinence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for male urinary incontinence, such as absorbent aids and catheters, are often invasive, expensive, and environmentally unfriendly, and do not completely resolve the issue of involuntary urine release, leading to hygiene and social discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive device comprising a hypoallergenic strap wrapped around the penis with a projection that adjusts to close the urethra, preventing involuntary urine release, and can be easily opened for urination, made from reusable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If absorbent aids and catheters are used to treat urinary incontinence, then urine leakage is managed, but the treatments are invasive, expensive, and create environmental waste requiring continuous disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical absorption mechanism of traditional aids with a purely mechanical compression system. The elastic strap applies circumferential pressure to compress the urethra and bladder neck, using mechanical force rather than absorbent materials to control incontinence. This substitution eliminates the need for disposable products and reduces environmental waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows adjustment of compression pressure through interchangeable straps of different elasticities and thicknesses, and through adjustable fastening mechanisms. This parameter adjustment enables customization of the compression force to match individual patient needs and activity levels, optimizing effectiveness while minimizing discomfort.
2Reliability
If a compression device is applied around the penis to close the urethra, then urine leakage is prevented, but the device may add visible bulk and restrict movement
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses thin, flexible elastic straps that conform to the contours of the penis and surrounding anatomy. The material is chosen to be thin enough to minimize visible bulk under clothing while maintaining sufficient elastic tension for effective urethral compression. The flexibility allows natural movement and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material provides dynamic adaptation to movement and changes in penile volume throughout the day. The strap automatically adjusts its compression force as the penis moves or changes size, maintaining effectiveness without requiring manual readjustment. This dynamic behavior enhances comfort and movement freedom.
3Reliability
If the strap is made tight enough to effectively close the urethra, then incontinence is controlled, but the device may cause discomfort or injury to the penile skin
Solution Approach 1:
The device offers multiple strap options with varying elasticity moduli and thicknesses, allowing selection of appropriate compression levels for different patients and situations. The adjustable fastening system enables precise control of compression force, starting at lower levels and increasing only as needed, thereby minimizing skin stress while maintaining incontinence control.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap design incorporates features that distribute compression force across a broader area rather than concentrating it at single points. The elastic material and wrapping configuration spread the pressure along the length of the penis, reducing peak stress on any one location and minimizing the risk of skin injury while maintaining overall urethral closure.
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 device effectively prevents urine leakage during daily activities, maintains hygiene, and has minimal environmental impact, as it is reusable and does not add visible bulk, allowing for normal movement and social interaction without the need for continuous disposal.
Implementation Method 1
a strap (A), preferably made of nylon material, comprising a flexible and elongated body (A1)
Implementation Method 2
The user tightens the ring-shaped strap around the penis in such a way that the projection is positioned at the level of the urethral canal causing pressure such as to close the canal itself
Data Source
AI summary
A health device for male urinary incontinence includes a strap suited to be wrapped and closed as a ring around the penis and provided with at least one projection that is directed towards the inside of the ring formed by the closed strap, the projection being suited to be positioned at the level of the urethral canal.