Vaginal Dilation Device with Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods fail to effectively prevent pelvic floor damage and vaginal lacerations during childbirth, with existing devices lacking in stability and accuracy for pre-stretching vaginal tissues before labor.
Innovation Solution
A vaginal dilation device with a handle, expandable arms, and force sensors that automatically adjust to apply a constant force, expanding from a closed configuration of less than 4 cm to approximately 8-10 cm to match the fetal head size, equipped with a quick-release mechanism and sensors for precise dilation control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If vaginal dilation is performed manually during labor, then the procedure is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the precision and control over dilation force are insufficient leading to tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates force sensors that continuously measure the dilation force applied to vaginal tissue and provide real-time feedback to a control system. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables precise control of dilation force, preventing both under-dilation and over-dilation that could cause tissue damage. The control system adjusts the dilation rate based on the measured force feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical dilation with an automated system that uses motors to control the dilation process. The mechanical system is augmented with sensors and control electronics to achieve precise force control, substituting the imprecise manual mechanical action with an automated electromechanical system.
2Productivity
If rapid dilation is performed to speed up delivery, then the delivery process is accelerated, but the risk of vaginal laceration and pelvic floor damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic dilation process where the dilation rate is continuously adjusted based on real-time tissue response measurements. The system starts with slower dilation rates and progressively increases the rate as tissue tolerance is demonstrated, optimizing both safety and efficiency. This dynamic adjustment prevents rapid dilation that could cause trauma while maintaining productive progress toward delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary dilation at controlled, lower forces before progressing to higher dilation forces. This staged approach prepares the tissue gradually, preventing sudden stress that could cause lacerations. The force sensors detect tissue readiness and guide the progression from preliminary to advanced dilation stages.
3Reliability
If force sensors and automated control are added to the dilation device, then the precision and safety of dilation improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating dilation system where the force sensors and control algorithm work together to automatically adjust dilation parameters without requiring constant external monitoring or intervention. The system serves itself by detecting tissue response and autonomously modifying the dilation process to maintain safety margins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the automated dilation device to perform multiple functions: dilation, force measurement, real-time monitoring, and adaptive control adjustment. By integrating these functions into a single unified system rather than separate components, the device achieves high reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A vaginal dilation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it is configured to dilate vaginal tissue during labor to prevent tissue damage. Another feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it can be manually controlled to dilate vaginal tissue, or can be automatically controlled to dilate vaginal tissue. In some embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to measure a force applied by the device to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to apply a constant force to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to expand at a constant rate. Methods associated with use of the vaginal dilation device are also provided.