Patent ID: 7297132
Filing Date: 2007-11-20
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A shape memory shutter device for controlling the rectum of a disabled person, comprising a section of conduit to be connected to the rectum of the disabled person, shutter means which control the passage through said conduit section and shape memory actuator means for actuating said shutter means, wherein said shutter means comprise a plurality of elastically deformable walls in form of petals positioned circumferentially around said conduit section and able to move between a rest closed position and a deformed open position, wherein said shape memory actuator means comprise a plurality of shape memory wires associated to the petals and means for supplying an electrical current to said wires so as to cause heating thereof, with a resulting passage of said shape memory wires from a rest condition to an activated shortened condition which causes said petals to move to their deformed open condition, wherein within a space delimited by the petals is positioned a shape memory valve, wherein said shape memory valve comprises a pouch with an expandable discharge orifice, and wherein the shape memory actuator means are associated to the walls of the inner pouch and are able to cause the opening of the orifice when actuated, the opening of the petals being caused mechanically by the opening of the inner pouch.