CPAP Sanitizing System with Ozone Distribution and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanitization systems for CPAP equipment are inconvenient, messy, and time-consuming, leading to inadequate sanitization due to user resistance. Additionally, there is a risk of exposure to sanitizing gases, and some components may not be adequately exposed to the sanitizing agent during sanitization cycles.
Innovation Solution
The development of sanitizing systems that distribute a sanitizing agent, such as ozone, specifically into subsets of CPAP equipment components, while preventing its distribution into other components. This includes safety features to prevent gas leakage and ensure safe operation, as well as improved sanitizing chambers, filters, sealing systems, and control methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning of each CPAP component is performed, then sanitization effectiveness is improved, but user convenience deteriorates and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sanitization system segments the CPAP device into multiple components (mask, headgear, cushion, etc.) and provides targeted sanitization for each component type through separate receptacles and delivery mechanisms, allowing comprehensive coverage without requiring manual cleaning of each part
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service sanitization where the CPAP device components are placed in the sanitization chamber and the system automatically delivers ozone gas through controlled pathways to sanitize each component without user intervention during the process
2Reliability
If manual cleaning of each CPAP component is performed, then sanitization effectiveness is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by delivering ozone gas in controlled cycles through different pathways to various components, with timing control ensuring each component receives adequate exposure without requiring extended manual cleaning periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple sanitization functions into a single integrated chamber that can simultaneously or sequentially treat multiple CPAP components, reducing the total time required compared to manual cleaning of each component separately
3Reliability
If sanitizing gas is distributed to all CPAP components, then comprehensive sanitization is achieved, but gas leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the gas distribution into separate controlled pathways for different components, with individual delivery mechanisms and sealing arrangements for each receptacle, reducing the risk of system-wide gas leakage while maintaining comprehensive coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediary sealing elements and controlled delivery mechanisms between the ozone source and various components, acting as intermediaries that contain and direct the gas flow to specific areas while preventing uncontrolled leakage
4Reliability
If sanitizing gas flow is increased to ensure thorough exposure, then sanitization effectiveness is improved, but gas leakage and user exposure risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by delivering ozone gas at controlled concentrations and flow rates to specific local areas where needed, rather than using high-volume uniform distribution, thereby achieving effective sanitization while minimizing overall gas exposure risk to users
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through sensors that monitor ozone gas levels and delivery, automatically adjusting gas flow to maintain effective sanitization concentrations while preventing excessive accumulation that could lead to user exposure hazards
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 proposed solution effectively sanitizes CPAP equipment by ensuring thorough exposure of critical components to the sanitizing agent, while minimizing user exposure to hazardous gases and improving the efficiency and safety of the sanitization process.
Implementation Method 1
a sanitizing gas supply system configured to generate or otherwise provide a sanitizing gas
Implementation Method 2
a seal configured to prevent passage of the sanitizing gas from the chamber to an environment outside the chamber
Implementation Method 3
which may facilitate conversion of ozone to oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies for sanitizing medical devices are described. In particular, sanitizing systems, components of sanitizing systems, and methods for sanitizing medical devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) equipment are described. In embodiments, the sanitizing systems include a sanitizing gas generator and a base including at least one exhaust port and a filter.