Breathing Conduit Connectors With Quick-Align Internal Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for breathing circuits often make it difficult and time-consuming to detach or replace components, which can disrupt gas therapy delivery and pose safety risks, especially in emergencies, due to complex connection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with 'quick-connect' or 'quick-release' capabilities, featuring internal and external alignment features such as tabs, ribs, and visual aids to facilitate rapid and correct alignment and connection, allowing for easy interchangeability of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex connection mechanisms are used in existing connectors, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but connection time and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional elements: external alignment features (protrusions/grooves) for rapid positioning, internal connection features (locking mechanisms) for secure attachment, and sealing features. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick connection while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
External alignment features are designed to automatically position and orient the connectors correctly before the actual connection is made. This preliminary alignment action eliminates the need for manual positioning and ensures proper orientation, reducing connection time while preventing misalignment errors.
2Reliability
If complex connection mechanisms are used in existing connectors, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning external features and self-latching internal mechanisms that automatically perform alignment and securing functions without requiring manual intervention or complex操作步骤. The user simply needs to insert the connector, and the system automatically completes the connection process, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design replaces complex multi-step mechanical manipulation with simpler insertion movements. Internal locking features and external alignment elements work together to automatically secure the connection, eliminating the need for manual tightening, threading, or complex fastening operations.
3Ease of operation
If alignment features are added to facilitate quick connection, then ease of operation and connection speed are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated features: external alignment protrusions serve both as positioning guides and as part of the overall connector geometry. Internal connection features are combined with the body structure, eliminating the need for separate components. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts while providing quick-alignment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment features and connection features are designed to serve multiple purposes: external protrusions provide both alignment guidance and structural identification, while internal features provide both connection security and flow path definition. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, managing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to connectors to be provided into fluid communication or engagement either directly with, or via a component to be associated with, a terminal end of a breathing conduit. In at least one embodiment, the connector comprises a body having a first end and a second end, and an internal lumen for the passage of gas between the ends. The first end engageable with a terminal end of a conduit or a component to be associated therewith. The second end engageable with another connector. An internal surface of the body at the second end comprises internal connection features for connection with another connector to be received internally therein. An external surface of the body comprises one or more external alignment feature(s) for aligning the connector or another connection into an aligned orientation for connection therebetween.