Single Control Interface for CPAP and Humidifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of pressure support systems, such as CPAP machines, are increased by numerous controls and separate user interfaces for the machine and its accessories, leading to user confusion and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A user interface with a single control knob that operates in two modes to adjust parameters of the pressure support device and its accessories, such as a humidifier, simplifying the control process and reducing the need for multiple controls and interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate user interfaces and controls are provided for the pressure support device and accessory, then each device can be adjusted independently, but the number of controls increases making the system complex and confusing for users
Solution Approach 1:
The single control knob is designed to perform multiple functions: it can adjust parameters of the pressure support device independently, adjust parameters of the accessory when connected, and switch between these two operational modes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate controls for each device while maintaining independent adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control functions of the pressure support device and accessory into a single unified control interface. The control knob integrates both control functions, and the display combines both parameter sets, reducing the total number of controls from multiple separate interfaces to one consolidated interface.
2Ease of operation
If multiple independent controls are provided for pressure support device and accessory, then detailed parameter adjustment is possible, but user confusion increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The single control knob serves as a universal control for both the pressure support device and accessory. Users interact with the same control mechanism for both devices, reducing confusion about which control belongs to which device and simplifying the learning curve for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary control mechanism (the single control knob) that mediates between the user and both devices. This intermediary interface abstracts the complexity of controlling multiple devices, presenting a unified simplified control point that handles both pressure support and accessory parameters.
3Ease of manufacture
If separate user interfaces are used for pressure support device and accessory, then each device has dedicated controls, but electrical components and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrical control circuits into a single integrated control circuit that handles both the pressure support device and accessory. This consolidation reduces the number of separate circuit boards, connectors, and control electronics required, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed as a universal interface that can operate in multiple modes: controlling the pressure support device independently, controlling the accessory independently, or coordinating both devices together. This multi-functional circuit eliminates the need for separate dedicated control electronics for each device.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure support device such as a CPAP machine, is provided, which includes a housing, and a controller enclosed by the housing. The controller operates the CPAP machine independently or in combination with an accessory such as, for example and without limitation, a humidifier. A user interface is operably coupled to the controller and includes a primary display, a secondary display and a single control. The single control is operable in a first mode of operation to adjust operating parameters of the CPAP machine, and in a second mode of operation to adjust operating parameters of the humidifier. The secondary display preferably comprises a dead front, which is operational (e.g., without limitation, visible) only in the second mode of operation. A method of operating a pressure support device is also disclosed.