CPAP Lid Hinge and Latch Assembly for One-Handed Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
CPAP machines have a large footprint and require complex manipulation of lids or components due to cramped bedroom spaces, often leading to damage from excessive opening forces.
Innovation Solution
A lid mechanism with flush or recessed hinges, a single-hand latch, and a cam-guided hinge assembly that allows easy opening and closing, preventing damage from overextension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the lid is designed with traditional hinges, then the lid can be opened and closed, but the hinges protrude from the outer surface creating bulk and requiring more space
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is inverted by positioning the pivot point inside the lid body rather than on the outer surface. The post extends through the lid and is received by supports within the housing, with the clip engaging the post from the interior. This inversion allows the hinge to be substantially flush with or recessed into the outer surface, reducing the machine's footprint while maintaining full lid functionality.
2Reliability
If the lid is made secure to prevent damage from air pressure, then the lid remains closed during operation, but the lid becomes difficult to open requiring excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be disengaged before the lid is opened. The button member, when actuated, preliminarily releases the latch from its engaged position with the latch bore, allowing the lid to be opened without excessive force. This preliminary action of latch disengagement before opening prevents damage from overextension while maintaining security during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly incorporates a cam structure and guide structure that dynamically adjust during lid movement. When the lid is closed, the cam structure holds the post in a position that secures the lid. During opening, the cam structure allows the post to slide along the guide surface, transitioning from a secured state to an open state. This dynamic mechanism provides restraint against air pressure forces while enabling easy detachment when needed.
3Reliability
If the latch mechanism is positioned away from the hinge assembly, then the lid can be secured, but the user requires two hands to operate (one for latch, one for lifting lid)
Solution Approach 1:
The button member and latch mechanism are merged into a single integrated component. The button member includes both the actuating portion for manual operation and the latch portion that engages with the latch bore. This merging allows the user to both secure and release the lid using a single hand by simply pressing or releasing the button member, eliminating the need for separate two-handed operation.
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
The mechanism reduces the CPAP machine's footprint and enables easy, single-handed operation, protecting the device from damage by allowing controlled lid movement.
Implementation Method 1
the button member is spring biased away from the at least one hinge assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A breathing assistance apparatus has a lid and latch assembly configured for one- handed operation. The apparatus also includes a hinge assembly that separates when over- rotated but that reengages upon closing of the lid onto the main body of the apparatus.