Wearable Bladder Compression Device for OAB Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for treating Overactive Bladder (OAB) are often invasive, non-compliant, and do not effectively train the bladder to hold larger volumes of urine, leading to poor patient compliance and symptom management.

Innovation Solution

A wearable bladder control system comprising a compression device integrated into a garment, using shape memory actuators and a portable power supply to apply compressive forces to the abdominal wall, which can be controlled manually or automatically via a remote device, to train the detrusor muscle and increase bladder capacity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If behavioral modifications and medications are used for OAB therapy, then symptom management is achieved, but patient compliance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesymptom management effectivenessVSAvoidpatient compliance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bladder training device enables patients to independently perform bladder training exercises at home without requiring continuous medical supervision or adherence to complex medication regimens. The device provides automated feedback and guidance, allowing patients to take control of their own therapy and improve compliance through self-directed treatment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Strength

If pelvic floor muscle training is recommended, then pelvic muscle strength is improved, but bladder training effectiveness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepelvic muscle strengthVSAvoidbladder training effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device applies localized compression forces specifically to the bladder region rather than general pelvic floor muscles. By targeting the detrusor muscle directly through controlled compression of the lower abdominal area, the device provides precise bladder training while avoiding the limitations of general pelvic floor exercises.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Volume of stationary object

If invasive surgical procedures are performed, then bladder capacity is increased, but treatment complexity and risk deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebladder capacityVSAvoidtreatment invasiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device replaces invasive surgical mechanical modifications with non-invasive controlled compression therapy. Instead of physically altering the bladder structure through surgery, the device uses programmable compression forces to train the detrusor muscle and increase functional bladder capacity through physiological adaptation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Reliability

If oral therapies are prescribed, then symptom relief is achieved, but treatment duration and compliance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesymptom reliefVSAvoidtreatment duration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The device employs periodic compression cycles with varying intensity and duration to stimulate detrusor muscle adaptation. The programmable nature allows for structured training protocols that can be adjusted over time, providing sustained symptom relief through repeated controlled stimulation rather than continuous medication use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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

The system provides a non-invasive, user-friendly solution that enhances bladder capacity by applying controlled compressive forces, improving patient compliance and symptom management for OAB.

Implementation Method 1

The actuator can comprise a shape memory actuator. The shape memory actuator can be configured to translate the device housing in relation to the device base in response to a temperature change.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory actuator: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

The bladder control apparatus can further comprise a heating element. The heating element can be configured to apply heat to the shape memory actuator to change a shape of the shape memory actuator.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Data Source

PatentUS20220370181A1Systems and methods for monitoring and regulating bladder function and mechanics

Publication Date: 2022.11.24 VESI CORP

AI summary

Devices, methods, and systems for controlling a bladder of a subject are disclosed. For example, an apparatus for controlling the bladder can comprise a garment or accessory configured to be worn at least partially around a lower truncal region of a subject and a compression device coupled to the garment or accessory. The compression device can be configured to pressurize an abdominal wall of the subject when the garment or accessory is worn by the subject. The compression device can comprise a device housing having a contact surface, a device base, and an actuator. The actuator can translate the device housing in relation to the device base in a medial or lateral direction relative to the subject such that the contact surface of the device housing applies compressive forces to the abdominal wall of the subject when translated.