Variable Constriction Mechanisms for Gastrointestinal Simulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices fail to realistically simulate the function of the human stomach and intestine, which is crucial for predicting drug absorption and digestion processes, and for endoscopic training, leading to inadequate clinical competence and inaccurate prediction of drug efficacy.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus featuring a flexible vessel with variable constriction mechanisms mimicking the peristaltic movements of the stomach and intestine, using iris mechanisms and electric motors to simulate the dynamic and mechanical properties of human gastrointestinal tissues, allowing for precise control of vessel wall contractions and movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional endoscopic simulators are used for training, then training can be conducted without patient involvement, but they fail to realistically simulate the movement of the human stomach and intestine
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator divides the stomach and intestine movement simulation into multiple independent constriction mechanisms (first and second constriction mechanisms) that can be controlled separately. Each mechanism handles specific peristaltic movements at different locations, allowing complex physiological patterns to be broken down into manageable, controllable segments that independently contribute to realistic simulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic constriction mechanisms that can change their constriction strength and position over time to mimic the natural peristaltic movements of the gastrointestinal tract. The mechanisms are designed to create time-varying pressure patterns that replicate the wave-like contractions of real stomach and intestine walls, transforming a static simulation into a dynamic, physiologically accurate model.
2Reliability
If simple simulation devices are used, then device complexity is reduced, but they cannot realistically simulate the peristaltic movements and mechanical properties of gastrointestinal tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator incorporates sensors that detect the position and movement of test objects within the vessel, feeding this information back to the control system. The control system uses this feedback to adjust the constriction mechanisms in real-time, creating a closed-loop system that adapts its simulation parameters based on actual conditions, thereby improving the accuracy of digestion process simulation while managing complexity through intelligent control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes multiple adjustable parameters including constriction strength, constriction speed, frequency of contractions, and positioning of constriction mechanisms to realistically simulate various gastrointestinal conditions. By independently controlling these parameters, the system can replicate different physiological states and pathological conditions, achieving high simulation accuracy through parameter variation rather than structural complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple constriction mechanisms are added to improve simulation realism, then the prediction of drug efficacy becomes more accurate, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The constriction mechanisms are designed with multi-functionality, serving multiple purposes: they simulate peristaltic movements, create mechanical stress on test objects, control the movement of simulants through the vessel, and can be programmed to replicate various gastrointestinal conditions. This universal design allows the same mechanisms to contribute to multiple aspects of simulation accuracy without requiring separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulator is designed to handle multiple test objects sequentially, where the system can complete one digestion simulation, then reset and prepare for the next test. The constriction mechanisms are programmed to return to initial positions and the vessel can be quickly reconfigured between tests, allowing efficient utilization of the complex apparatus through rapid cycling between test conditions, thereby justifying the investment in multiple mechanisms through high throughput capability.
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 highly realistic simulation of drug and food digestion processes, improving the prediction of drug efficacy and providing a realistic training environment for endoscopic procedures, reducing the need for supervised clinical training.
Implementation Method 1
an inner diameter of each of the constriction mechanisms (20) is variable such that the vessel (10; 100) can be locally and annularly constricted
Implementation Method 2
a peristaltic pump comprising a series of inflatable members that allow sequentially restricting a fluid passage in order to provide a pumping action
Implementation Method 3
a flexible tube with an outer surface carrying a plurality of longitudinally spaced apparat electro-active polymer actuators
Data Source
Figure 1(a)
Figure 1(b)
Figure 1(c)
AI summary
Provided is an apparatus for simulating the function of a human stomach and/or intestine. The apparatus comprises a flexible vessel (10; 100), and a plurality of constriction mechanisms (20), wherein each of the constriction mechanisms (20) is disposed annularly around the outer circumference of the vessel (10; 100), and an inner diameter of each of the constriction mechanisms (20) is variable such that the vessel (10; 100) can be locally and annularly constricted.