Patient-Interface Conduit Connector With Supplementary Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit connector assemblies in respiratory therapy masks do not reliably open or close fully, leading to potential issues with gas flow when the respiratory gas supply is interrupted.
Innovation Solution
A conduit connector assembly with a valve body and valve flap configuration that provides multiple flow paths, including a supplementary gas flow path, to ensure reliable gas flow even when the main supply is interrupted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single flow path is used in the conduit connector assembly, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of gas flow is compromised when the primary supply is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit connector assembly is segmented into multiple independent flow paths: a primary flow path for normal respiratory gas delivery and a supplementary flow path for emergency breathing. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability by providing alternative gas flow routes when the primary path is interrupted, while keeping each individual path relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow path configuration parameter from a single path to multiple paths. By introducing a supplementary flow path that can be activated when the primary path fails, the system transforms from a single-mode operation to a multi-mode operation, thereby improving reliability without requiring complete system redesign.
2Reliability
If the valve flap is designed to fully open and close the primary flow path, then the gas flow control is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the valve may not open or close fully
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a supplementary flow path that acts as a backup or cushioning mechanism. When the primary valve flap fails to open or close fully, the supplementary flow path provides an alternative route for gas flow, ensuring that breathing is not compromised. This beforehand cushioning approach prepares for potential valve failures in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The supplementary flow path serves as an intermediary mechanism between the user's breathing needs and the potentially unreliable primary valve. When the primary valve cannot fully control gas flow, the supplementary path mediates by providing an alternative gas flow route, ensuring continuous breathing support.
3Reliability
If headgear is tightened to reduce leakage, then the seal performance is improved, but the comfort deteriorates due to elevated pressure on the user's nose
Solution Approach 1:
The gas flow system is segmented into primary and supplementary paths, allowing the seal to be optimized for the primary path while the supplementary path provides a safety backup. This segmentation enables the headgear to be tightened sufficiently for good seal performance without excessive discomfort, as the supplementary path provides additional safety margin.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures continuous breathing by allowing supplementary gas flow when the primary supply is disrupted, enhancing user safety and comfort during respiratory therapy.
Implementation Method 1
a hollow valve body configured to be mounted on or in the conduit and comprising at least a first valve port configured to be closed or opened by a valve flap
Implementation Method 2
The valve device further comprises a pressure-responsive valve element for regulating gas flow into the inlet of the respiratory mask
Data Source
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AI summary
A conduit connector assembly is provided for a respiratory therapy apparatus and configured to connect a patient interface to a gas delivery conduit. The assembly comprises: a conduit comprising a first flow port configured to be connected to the patient interface, and a second flow port configured to be connected to the gas delivery conduit, and a supplementary flow port; and a first valve port configured to be closed or opened by a valve flap. The conduit and the valve flap selectively provide an inspiratory flow path from the second flow port of the conduit to the first flow port of the conduit; and an expiratory flow path from the first flow port of the conduit to the supplementary flow port via the first valve port. A supplementary gas flow path is provided between the first and/or second flow ports and the supplementary flow port via a supplementary valve port.