Tracheostomy valves and related methods
a tracheostomy valve and valve body technology, applied in the field of tracheostomy valves, can solve the problems of diaphragm not being properly preloaded, valve not being sealed at rest, diaphragm overloaded, etc., and achieves the effect of reducing the risk of tracheostomy valve failur
Inactive Publication Date: 2012-01-19
PASSY MUIR
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- Summary
- Abstract
- Description
- Claims
- Application Information
AI Technical Summary
Benefits of technology
The solution achieves a reliable and repeatable diaphragm deformation, ensuring smooth airflow and an effective seal during inhalation and exhalation, while lowering manufacturing rejections and costs by simplifying the manufacturing process.
Problems solved by technology
If the rivet does not pull the diaphragm far enough toward the seating ring the diaphragm will not be properly preloaded and the valve will not be sealed at rest.
On the other hand, if the rivet pulls the diaphragm too far toward the seating ring the diaphragm will be overloaded and will require too much pressure to open.
In extreme cases the diaphragm may even wrinkle, which causes gaps to develop between the diaphragm and the seating ring.
The gaps, of course, compromise the sealing ability of the diaphragm.
52-58) Unfortunately, the heat-staking is rather imprecise, as the position of the heat-staked end 20c is affected by the temperature of the heat-staking apparatus and the length of time that heat is applied to the heat-staked end 20c. These variables are difficult to control with the precision necessary to properly place the rivet every time.
There is also a tendency for melted plastic to stick to the tip of the heat-staking apparatus, which further complicates control over the process.
Thus, a high percentage of the tracheostomy valve units are rejected during the manufacturing process, which in turn raises the cost of manufacturing the valve units.
Method used
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,” one will understand how the features of the preferred embodiments provide advantages, which include ease of manufacture, reliable and repeatable deformation of the diaphragm, smooth airflow through the valve unit during inhalation, and an uninterrupted seal preventing airflow through the valve unit at all times except during inhalation.
[0010]One embodiment of the present tracheostomy valves and related methods comprises a tracheostomy valve unit configured to cooperate with a tracheostomy tube insertable within a patient's trachea. The valve unit comprises a valve body having a first end, a second end and a fluid passageway extending therethrough. The first end is configured to be operably connected with the tracheostomy tube. A flexible diaphragm is positioned within the fluid passageway spaced from the first end of the valve body. The diaphragm has a first face and a second face opposite the first face. A rib is positioned within the fluid passageway. At least a portion of the ...
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The embodiments of the present tracheostomy valves include a flexible diaphragm abutting a rib shaped substantially as a flat plate. Opposite the rib, the diaphragm abuts a boss and forms an uninterrupted seal therewith. As the tracheostomized patient inhales, the diaphragm bends about the rib, interrupting the seal and allowing air to flow smoothly into the valve. The features of the various embodiments contribute to a positive seal at all times except during inhalation, and low resistance to airflow through the valve during inhalation.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 830,573, filed Jul. 30, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to valves and methods for use with tracheostomized patients.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]U.S. Pat. No. 4,759,356, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein, describes a tracheostomy valve unit. The valve unit is securable to one end of a tracheostomy tube assembly to regulate air flow through the tube. The valve unit remains closed when the tracheostomized patient exhales, and at all other times except when the patient inhales. When the patient inhales, the valve opens to allow air to flow through the tracheostomy tube to the patient's lungs.[0006]An outer end of the valve includes a support to which a flexible diaphragm is secured. The diaphragm selective...
Claims
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IPC IPC(8): A61M16/20
CPCA61M16/208A61M16/0468Y10T137/789A61M2206/11A61M2207/00
InventorBARE, REX O.SCHERER, ANDREW J.
OwnerPASSY MUIR