Direct Elbow-to-Mask Connection for CPAP Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CPAP therapy setups for obstructive sleep apnea face challenges with air-tightness and compatibility between elbows, frames, and face masks, leading to potential airflow leakage and inconvenient connection processes.
Innovation Solution
A ventilation elbow assembly that directly connects to a face mask, reducing the number of connection points and incorporating features like noise reduction, quick-release connectors, and anti-asphyxiation valves to enhance sealing and user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the elbow is connected to the face mask via a frame with multiple connection points, then the connection is more secure, but the complexity of the assembly increases and the sealing accuracy deteriorates due to multiple potential leakage points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the intermediate frame component from the assembly, directly connecting the elbow to the face mask. This extraction of the frame eliminates multiple connection points and potential leakage sources while simplifying the overall assembly structure, resolving the contradiction between connection security and assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the elbow and face mask into a direct connection assembly, eliminating the separate frame component. This merging reduces the number of parts and connection points from multiple (elbow-frame, frame-mask) to a single direct connection, improving sealing accuracy while reducing complexity
2Shape
If the elbow is connected to the face mask via a frame, then the airflow direction can be controlled, but the sealing accuracy deteriorates due to multiple connection points that may loosen
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the intermediate frame, the patent eliminates multiple connection points that could loosen over time. The direct elbow-to-mask connection ensures a single, reliable sealing interface while maintaining airflow direction control through the elbow's geometric design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the airflow path into distinct functional zones: the elbow handles airflow direction control, while the direct connection interface handles sealing. This functional segmentation allows each component to optimize its primary role without compromising overall performance
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional elbows are used without direct face mask connection, then the component compatibility is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex connection and adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the elbow with a universal direct-connection interface that accommodates various face mask types. This universal interface maintains component compatibility while significantly improving ease of operation by eliminating the need for complex frame assembly and multiple adjustment points
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting the frame component, the patent simplifies the connection process to a single direct attachment between elbow and face mask. This reduction from multiple assembly steps to a single connection action greatly improves ease of operation while the standardized interface maintains versatility across different mask types
Data Source
AI summary
A ventilation elbow assembly, which is directly connectable to a face mask. The elbow assembly includes an elbow, connector, ventilation port, noise reduction device, and quick-release connector. The elbow has a first interface, second interface, and annular channel. At the first interface, there is at least one stepped portion, which is configured to connect to the face mask and seal pressurized gas. A baffle is provided at the first interface, limiting frame movement relative to the face mask and elbow. The assembly also includes an anti-asphyxiation valve to prevent the patient from asphyxiation without continuous positive pressure in the elbow. With a connector, the elbow can first connect to the connector before the face mask, expanding the range of movement of the elbow assembly relative to the face mask. This is configured to increase the range of movement of the elbow assembly relative to the face mask.