Vacuum-Assisted Irrigation Pump Using Flexible Envelope
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current irrigation systems in medical settings face limitations in pressurization methods, including height-dependent gravity feed, need for additional pumps, and manual adjustment of pressure, which can lead to inconsistent fluid delivery and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum-assisted irrigation pump using a flexible envelope with semi-rigid compressive members and a valve to create negative pressure, leveraging atmospheric pressure and hospital vacuum systems for pressurization, eliminating the need for additional power sources and reducing waste and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If gravity feed is used to pressurize irrigation fluid, then the system is simple and requires no additional power sources, but the pressure and flow rate are limited by height differential and may change based on reservoir height and fluid amount
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gravity-based mechanical pressurization system with a vacuum-driven system. Instead of relying on height differential to create pressure, the invention uses a vacuum source to create negative pressure that differentially pressurizes the irrigation fluid, providing consistent pressure independent of reservoir height or fluid volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the pressure parameter from positive gravity-dependent pressure to negative vacuum-driven pressure. By creating a vacuum environment, the system transforms how pressure is generated and maintained, allowing for consistent pressurization regardless of the traditional gravity feed limitations.
2Reliability
If an in-line pump is used to pressurize irrigation fluid, then stable and adjustable pressure is achieved, but all pressure is lost upon deactivation of the pump and the system requires continuous power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the active mechanical pump system with a passive vacuum-driven system. Instead of using a motor-driven pump that requires continuous power, the invention uses vacuum pressure to drive fluid flow, eliminating the need for continuous electrical power while maintaining pressure stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum-driven system is self-regulating and does not require active control or continuous power input. The vacuum pressure automatically maintains fluid pressurization and flow, with the system self-adjusting based on the vacuum level without requiring external power or active pump control.
3Stress or pressure
If mechanical compression with a hand pump is used to pressurize irrigation fluid, then higher pressure can be achieved, but the operator must continuously monitor and adjust the compression force as fluid volume decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum-driven system automatically maintains pressure on the irrigation fluid throughout the drainage process. The vacuum pressure continuously acts on the fluid reservoir, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and adjustment of compression force that would be required with hand pump systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum system provides continuous pressurization action throughout the entire fluid drainage process. Unlike manual compression that requires intermittent adjustment, the vacuum maintains constant negative pressure, ensuring continuous and consistent fluid pressurization without operator intervention.
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
Provides a portable, durable, and cost-effective solution for delivering a consistent pressurized fluid stream without additional power sources, utilizing readily available vacuum systems for efficient and versatile irrigation.
Implementation Method 1
A vacuum pump is in fluid communication with the interior of the flexible envelope to create a negative pressure within the envelope
Implementation Method 2
leveraging atmospheric pressure and hospital vacuum systems for pressurization
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of pressurized fluid delivery devices for use in medical procedures. In particular, a fluid delivery pump comprises at least one compressive member configured to apply a force to a fluid reservoir. The at least one compressive member is associated with a flexible envelope, such that the flexible envelope may move the compressive member. The flexible envelope may be substantially air-tight so that it may be pressurized. When a negative pressure is created inside the flexible envelope, the flexible envelope may change volume, applying a force to the at least one compressive member. The at least one compressive member may then apply a force to the fluid reservoir and the fluid is forced out of the reservoir.