Vaginal Speculum with Integrated Marker Applicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vaginal speculum arrangements lack standardized delivery of diagnostic markers, leading to inconsistent application and obstructed viewing, which can result in false diagnostic results due to variable marker doses and obstructed monitoring of optical effects.
Innovation Solution
A vaginal speculum with an integrated applicator for uniform delivery of a standardized dose of a liquid diagnostic marker, featuring an injection probe with a marker container and a mechanism for stable injection, allowing for unobstructed visualization and insertion of treatment tools, and compatibility with imaging and illumination systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a general purpose hand held atomizer is used to apply marker, then the marker can be delivered remotely, but the quantity applied is random and not standardized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a speculum as an intermediary device that integrates both the application and visualization functions. The speculum holds the marker container and positions it precisely within the vaginal canal, ensuring standardized delivery while maintaining the ability to visualize the tissue through the open blades. This intermediary structure resolves the contradiction by providing both remote delivery capability and precise quantity control.
2Manufacturing precision
If injection means are employed to apply marker, then standardized quantity can be delivered, but the rear opening of the speculum is obstructed preventing monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the injection mechanism into a separate, minimally invasive component that does not obstruct the speculum blades. The marker container and application mechanism are designed to be compact and positioned such that they deliver the standardized marker quantity without blocking the rear opening. This segmentation allows both functions—standardized delivery and unobstructed visualization—to coexist.
3Ease of operation
If cotton brush is used to wash tissue with acetic acid solution, then tissue can be treated, but the quantity of marker is not controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cotton brush system with a controlled liquid delivery system integrated into the speculum. Instead of using a brush that cannot control quantity, the invention employs a marker container with a controlled release mechanism that delivers a precise, standardized amount of acetic acid solution directly to the tissue. This substitution maintains ease of operation while achieving precise quantity control.
4Reliability
If multiple injections are performed repetitively, then better contrast can be achieved, but the procedure time increases and diagnostic information may be missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the preliminary action principle by delivering the complete, standardized marker quantity in a single controlled application. The marker container is pre-filled with the exact amount needed, and the delivery mechanism is designed to release it all at once in a controlled manner. This eliminates the need for repetitive injections, achieving the desired contrast quality while significantly reducing procedure time and preventing loss of diagnostic information.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a vaginal speculum embodying an applicator for the uniform delivery of a standardized dose of a liquid diagnostic marker onto the woman's lower genital tract. The applicator can comprises of a marker container and a mechanism for transferring a desirable quantity of its content to an injection probe for dispensing the marker onto the tissue surface. The cross section of the injection probe is substantially smaller than the rear opening of the speculum, so that the monitoring of the optical effects provoked to the tissue by the marker and the insertion of treatment tools is not obstructed.