Elacarmus (Artificial Muscle Sphincter)
More than 13% in the USA, 16% in Argentina and Sweden, 10% in Spain and UK, and in many more countries, people are reported to be suffering from Gastro esophageal reflux disease. 30% in UK, France and Germany, 15% in Spain and Thailand, and 10% in the USA, India and Korea are some of the most significant prevalence counts of Urinary incontinence. Many researches have been done over the two topics. Their prevalence and symptoms have let them achieve remarkable importance in the world today. GERD is labeled as one of the most disturbing daily-based medical conditions in young adults and UI as the most embarrassing problem in middle-aged women. This paper reports the invention of treatment for GERD and UI by an artificial muscle sphincter, Elacarmus©.
Elacarmus© term is coined from ELectrically ACtuated ARtificial MUScle. It is a medical implant with a ring-shaped geometry primarily made of silicone dielectric elastomer that can be surgically implanted. It is cheaper, one time investment compared to chemotherapy and other surgical treatments available for GERD and UI. Beneficial to patient, surgeon, manufacturing company and investors/shareholders, it would generate a promising business model once it is taken into the market.
Various concepts were sketched, out of which one was taken forward in the process. Detailed design was given with the help of concept sketches, foam models, CAD models and prototype modeling. Models were tested and results tabulated. Difficulty in the project was faced while selecting the appropriate materials and calculating the optimum values for its operation.
By computing the measurement variables of thickness and length of wires and human neuron with polymer properties, the voltage potential that could successfully contract a particular radius of polymer was obtained. While testing in this project, 43.5% contraction was seen at 14V-15V.
Product cost is estimated to be around £10-£12. It is targeted for all age groups. Its most likely success shall be in young adults for GERD and middle-aged women in UI due to its high demand. From the market point of view, maximum profits and best quality can be achieved when it is readily available in American and European region and on request in the rest of the world. If it is successfully released and brought into practice, it can change millions of lives.