Project number
25017
Organization
Spectrum Plastics Group
Offering
ENGR498-F2024-S2025
A Foley catheter is a common medical device that helps a patent empty their bladder. It is inserted into the patient’s urethra and secured with a balloon in the bladder. The undue removal of Foley urinary catheters by patients is a critical issue in pediatric care that can cause significant pain, medical complications and additional hospital costs. To minimize this risk of urethral trauma, the team designed a device that automatically deflates the retention balloon when sufficient force is applied.
This modified pediatric catheter utilizes a plug and tether safety release mechanism. Excess force on the tether pulls the plug beyond its resting position, causing sterile water to flow from the balloon to the bladder. This deflates the balloon, allowing the catheter to be removed easily. The team optimized the deflation lumen’s flow rate and egress mechanism’s response threshold using computational fluid dynamics simulations to predict fluid flow.
Iterative prototyping methods – including stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, and extrusion simulations – supported the design decisions. Optimization ensured reliable deflation while maintaining normal functionality. The team completed a production run with prototype tooling and conducted verification testing including tensile force and flow rate testing to confirm performance. This device will soon undergo FDA approval for use in health care.
This modified pediatric catheter utilizes a plug and tether safety release mechanism. Excess force on the tether pulls the plug beyond its resting position, causing sterile water to flow from the balloon to the bladder. This deflates the balloon, allowing the catheter to be removed easily. The team optimized the deflation lumen’s flow rate and egress mechanism’s response threshold using computational fluid dynamics simulations to predict fluid flow.
Iterative prototyping methods – including stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, and extrusion simulations – supported the design decisions. Optimization ensured reliable deflation while maintaining normal functionality. The team completed a production run with prototype tooling and conducted verification testing including tensile force and flow rate testing to confirm performance. This device will soon undergo FDA approval for use in health care.