Urine Collection System Self-Cleaning Pump Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional urine collection systems require users to manually empty and clean the collection container, which can lead to spills and unsanitary conditions.
Innovation Solution
A urine collection system that allows for cleaning and removal of urine from the collection container without removing it from the system, using a pump to create a vacuum for fluid transfer and a cleaning solution dispenser integrated into the lid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual emptying and cleaning of the collection container is required, then the system structure can be simple, but hygiene conditions deteriorate and spills occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-cleaning through automated mechanisms. The collection container is equipped with a cleaning solution dispenser that automatically dispenses cleaning solution into the container, and a suction mechanism that automatically removes the cleaning solution and waste without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach maintains hygiene conditions while minimizing the need for complex manual cleaning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A cleaning solution is introduced as an intermediary substance to facilitate the cleaning process. The cleaning solution is dispensed into the collection container, allows for automatic removal of waste, and is then evacuated through a suction mechanism. This intermediary approach enables effective cleaning while maintaining system simplicity and preventing spills.
2Ease of operation
If the collection container is removed for cleaning, then cleaning access is improved, but the risk of spills and unsanitary conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning solution acts as an intermediary that enables cleaning to occur while the container remains in place. The solution is dispensed through a port on the container lid, flows into the container, and is then suctioned out through the same or a separate port. This eliminates the need to remove the container for cleaning, thereby preventing spills and maintaining sanitary conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of removing and hand-washing the container is replaced with an automated fluid-based cleaning system. A pump-driven suction mechanism draws the cleaning solution and waste through conduits, eliminating the need for manual handling and reducing the risk of spills during the cleaning process.
3Reliability
If a pump system is added for automated cleaning, then hygiene is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is designed to perform multiple functions: it evacuates urine from the collection container, dispenses cleaning solution into the container, and removes the cleaning solution and waste. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional pump system, the overall device complexity is minimized while maintaining effective hygiene maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning and evacuation functions are merged into a single integrated system. The same pump and conduit infrastructure used for urine evacuation is utilized for cleaning solution dispensing and waste removal. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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
Facilitates sanitary cleaning and removal of urine without manual handling, reducing the risk of spills and maintaining hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
a pump in fluid communication with the canister interior region and configured to create a vacuum in the canister interior region effective to draw the urine from the urine collection device through the conduit into the canister
Implementation Method 2
dispensing the cleaning solution through the conduit and into the canister interior region... mixing the cleaning solution with the urine in the canister interior region
Implementation Method 3
activating the pump thereby creating a negative pressure in the canister interior region effective to draw the cleaning solution through the conduit and dispenser port into the canister interior region
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Examples relate to urine collection systems having a cleaning system, and related methods. A urine collection system includes a urine collection device, a canister having an interior region, a base including a pump, a lid, a cleaning solution container having a cleaning port, a first conduit, and a second conduit. The urine collection device is configured to be positioned at least proximate to a urethra of a user. The lid is secured or securable to the canister and includes a vacuum port, a urine port, and a dispenser port. The first conduit has an outlet detachably secured or securable to the dispenser port and/or the urine port, and an inlet detachably secured or securable to the urine collection device and/or the cleaning port. The second conduit is in fluid communication with the pump and has an inlet releaseably securable to the vacuum port.