Wide-Opening Urine Collection Device for Secure, Comfortable Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional urine collection devices, particularly for males, are difficult to retain in place and can cause discomfort, hygiene issues, and increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

Innovation Solution

A urine collection device with a fluid impermeable barrier and a fluid permeable body that includes an elongated portion and a wider second portion, featuring a larger opening for secure placement over various anatomies, and a wicking material to promote fluid flow into a reservoir for easy removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional urine collection device is used, then urine collection is achieved, but the device is difficult to retain in place and causes discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice retentionVSAvoiduser comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a retention portion with elongated protrusions for securing to the penis shaft, a receptacle portion for urine collection, and a wicking portion for fluid transport. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, improving both retention reliability and user comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the device have different material properties and structures tailored to their specific functions. The retention portion has rigid protrusions for secure attachment, while the receptacle is smooth and curved for comfort, and the wicking portion has capillary structures for fluid transport. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between retention strength and comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If a conventional urine collection device is used, then urine collection is achieved, but hygiene issues and urinary tract infections increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveurine collection effectivenessVSAvoidhygiene issues and infections

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device extracts and isolates the urine collection function into a separate, enclosed receptacle that is easily removable and disposable. This separates the urine collection area from the user's body, reducing contact between urine and the skin, thereby minimizing hygiene issues and infection risk while maintaining effective collection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed as a disposable item that is discarded after single use. This eliminates the need for cleaning and sterilization, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination and urinary tract infections. The low cost allows for easy replacement, ensuring continuous hygiene.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If a bed pan is used, then urine collection is achieved, but discomfort and spills occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveurine collection capabilityVSAvoiduser comfort and spill prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions from a horizontal collection approach (bed pan) to a vertical/axial approach by utilizing the penis shaft as a support structure. The elongated protrusions engage with the shaft, and the receptacle extends along the shaft's length, creating a stable vertical collection geometry that prevents spills and improves comfort during mobility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to be flexible and adaptable to different positions and activities. The receptacle can accommodate various angles and movements, and the retention portion can adjust to different shaft lengths and curvatures. This dynamic design allows the device to remain stable and comfortable during walking, running, or other activities, preventing spills.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 device provides secure and hygienic urine collection, reducing the risk of infections and discomfort, and is suitable for multiple genders and anatomical features, enhancing user comfort and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

The fluid permeable body is configured to wick fluid away from the opening into the at least one elongated portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapillary action: Capillary Action

Data Source

PatentUS12350190B2Urine collection devices having a relatively wide portion and an elongated portion and related methods

Publication Date: 2025.07.08 PUREWICK CORP

AI summary

Examples relate to devices, systems, and methods for fluid collection such as urine. The urine collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier and a fluid permeable body. The fluid impermeable barrier at least partially defines a chamber. The fluid impermeable barrier includes at least one elongated portion having a first width and distal to the aperture and a second portion having a second width greater than the first width. The second portion at least partially defines an opening in the fluid impermeable barrier, and the opening has a maximum lateral dimension greater than the first width of the elongated portion. The fluid permeable body is configured to wick fluid away from the opening into the at least one elongated portion.