Ams Research Corporation

John G Almli

Randy Lee Morningstar

Charles C Kuyava

Gregory J Henkel

Larry E Waldack

Kevin R Watts

A method of preventing inadvertent inflation of an implantable prosthetic includes biasing a valve assembly such that an outlet is substantially closed and using inadvertent pressure increases from the inlet to supplement the biasing of the valve assembly. It may further include the step of preventing fluid flow through the outlet by selectively varying fluid pressure within a bypass passageway having a first end which is in fluid communication with an inlet and a second end which is in fluid communication with a chamber. And, may also additionally include the step of displacing a flexible abutting wall disposed between the chamber and the valve assembly so that the abutting wall is caused to contact the valve assembly and urge the valve assembly into a closed position when the fluid pressure within the chamber exceeds a predetermined amount.

Diaphragm based spontaneous inflation inhibitor in a pump for an inflatable prosthesis

A pump assembly for a penile implant is provided having a mechanism which prevents spontaneous inflation of the cylinders implanted within the patient. The pump assembly has an actuating bar with ribs to enhance the spring force applied to a flow valve, a support structure to support and appropriately position the actuating bar, and a check valve made of metal with a segment covered with a plastic material. The preventative mechanism uses overpressure generated by the reservoir during unintentional compression to effectively seal the cylinders from unintended fluid flow. The prevention mechanism itself creates all necessary forces to prevent the undesired fluid flow to the cylinders. This is accomplished by incorporating appropriate mechanisms within the pump itself.

Pressure based spontaneous inflation inhibitor with penile pump improvements

A pump and valve assembly for an implantable prosthesis is provided with an internal actuating bar positioned such that when any portion of the housing is compressed, the check valves within are opened allowing for deflation of the cylinders. The pump and valve assembly also includes a textured surface over a portion of the housing to allow for quick identification of the component, as well as to make it easier for the patient to grasp it. The valve assembly further comprising an actuating bar which has ribs to enhance the spring force applied to a flow valve, a support structure to support and appropriately position the actuating bar, and a check valve made of metal with a segment covered with a plastic material.

Growing community of inventors

Chaska, MN, United States of America

John G Almli