Multi-Layer Urine Capture Structure for Leak-Free Hygienic Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing urine collection devices for individuals with limited or impaired mobility, such as urinary catheters and bed pans, are uncomfortable, prone to leaks, and can lead to hygiene issues, particularly affecting elderly females who are bedbound.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered urine capture device comprising a reservoir layer and a fluid impermeable layer, with optional permeable and wicking layers, designed to collect and transport urine away from the body, using a suction force through a fluid conduit connected to a vacuum source, and equipped with sensors for monitoring urine characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If urinary catheters are used to collect urine, then urine collection is achieved, but comfort and hygiene deteriorate due to discomfort, pain, and infection risks
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the urine collection system into separate functional layers: a reservoir layer for urine storage, a wicking layer for fluid transport, and a barrier layer for hygiene protection. This segmentation eliminates the need for invasive catheters while maintaining reliable urine collection and improving comfort by keeping the anatomy dry.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layered structure acts as an intermediary between the anatomy and the urine collection reservoir. The wicking layer and barrier layer mediate the urine transport process, preventing direct contact between urine and the user's skin, thereby eliminating discomfort and infection risks associated with traditional catheters.
2Reliability
If bed pans are used for toileting, then urine collection is achieved, but hygiene and reliability deteriorate due to spills and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional bed pan surface to a three-dimensional multi-layered structure with vertical fluid transport pathways. The wicking layer extends upward from the reservoir, creating a capillary action-driven fluid transport system that prevents spills and maintains hygiene without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs capillary action in the wicking layer to automatically transport urine from the collection point to the reservoir without external assistance. This self-service mechanism eliminates spills and discomfort associated with bed pans, providing reliable urine collection that maintains hygiene independently.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multi-layered structure is implemented, then hygiene and comfort improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses thin-film layered structures that are flexible and conformable to the anatomy. Each layer (reservoir, wicking, barrier) is constructed from thin materials that maintain structural integrity while allowing the device to adapt to body contours, thereby improving hygiene and comfort without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
4Productivity
If suction force is applied through fluid conduit, then urine transport efficiency improves, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction system operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when urine accumulation reaches a certain level in the reservoir. This periodic operation maintains high urine transport efficiency while minimizing energy consumption and reducing the complexity of continuous suction system requirements.
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 collects and transports urine, reducing leakage and discomfort, maintaining hygiene, and allowing for continuous monitoring of urine properties, thereby preventing rashes and sores.
Implementation Method 1
a wicking layer in fluid communication with the reservoir layer and configured to wick urine away from the anatomy through capillary action
Implementation Method 2
a suction source configured to apply a negative pressure to the multi-layered urine capture device
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to a multi-layered urine capture device suitable for collecting and transporting urine away from the body. The urine capture device can be positioned adjacent a urethra of a female user. The urine capture device can include a plurality of layers, for example, one or more fluid permeable layers, one or more absorbent layers, one or more hydrophobic layers, one or more wicking layers, one or more fluid impermeable layers, and other suitable layers.