Urine Collection Device with Flexible Tube and Bayonet Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collection devices for urine do not effectively allow users to urinate while driving, as they are not designed for continuous use during vehicle operation, requiring frequent stops.
Innovation Solution
A flexible tube and bag system with a conically shaped pipe that allows urine to flow from the pipe to the bag, accompanied by a pump and flanges for secure and leak-proof urination, enabling users to urinate into the system without stopping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing collection devices are used, then users can collect urine, but users must stop driving frequently to empty the device
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate components: a reusable pump unit with control electronics and a detachable collection bag. This segmentation allows the bag to be quickly removed and replaced without handling the entire device, enabling rapid emptying during driver stops while maintaining continuous collection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The collection bag is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that can be quickly emptied or swapped during brief driver stops. This allows the system to recover and continue collection without requiring full device disassembly or complex emptying procedures, addressing the time loss issue
2Reliability
If a secure connection system is implemented, then leakage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: the pump unit serves as both the pumping mechanism and the connection interface. The bayonet-style connector integrates sealing, mechanical attachment, and electrical connection in one structure, achieving leak-proof performance without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex multi-step connection procedures to ensure leak-proof operation, the design inverts the approach by using a simple rotary bayonet connector that achieves secure, leak-proof connection through a single quarter-turn motion with inherent sealing and locking features
3Ease of operation
If a pump system is added, then urine flow is controlled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is designed to be manually operated by the driver through simple button presses or a foot pedal, eliminating the need for complex control interfaces. The pump automatically activates when urine is detected in the collection bag and operates until the bag is full, providing self-regulating flow control without requiring sophisticated electronics or user intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The pump mechanism uses pneumatic or hydraulic principles with a diaphragm or bellows design that can be actuated by simple mechanical input from the driver. This approach provides effective urine transfer control using basic mechanical components rather than complex electric motor systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation
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
Enables continuous urine collection during driving by providing a secure, leak-proof, and visible urine flow system, suitable for long-haul truckers and other drivers, reducing the need for frequent stops.
Implementation Method 1
The tube is configured to allow flow of urine from the pipe to the bag
Implementation Method 2
The tube is configured to allow flow of urine from the pipe to the bag
Data Source
AI summary
A urine collection device for enabling urination while driving includes a tube that is flexible, a bag, and a pipe. The bag is selectively couplable to a first endpoint of the tube. The pipe is selectively couplable by a first end to a second endpoint of the tube so that the pipe is in fluidic communication with the bag. A second end of the pipe is configured to insert a penis of a user to position the pipe around the penis, thus enabling the user to urinate into the pipe. The tube is configured to allow flow of urine from the pipe to the bag.