CPAP Tether with Sensor-Activated Alarm for Secure Mask Hose Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is hindered by frequent disconnections between the CPAP mask and hose due to a friction fit, leading to safety concerns as the air pressure is disrupted, with existing solutions like adhesives and frequent cleaning being temporary and costly, and hose replacement being inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A CPAP tether system comprising a first ring coupled to the mask and a second ring coupled to the hose, connected by a tubular connector, which remains attached for ease of cleaning and alerts the user of disconnections through a sensor-activated alarm system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a friction fit connection is used between the mask and hose, then the connection can be easily disconnected for cleaning, but the connection becomes loose and disconnects during use
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into three segments: the mask interface, the tether with adjustable length, and the hose interface. This segmentation allows the tether to provide continuous tension to maintain connection stability while still permitting easy disconnection for cleaning by simply releasing the friction fit at either end.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether acts as an intermediary element between the mask and hose. It provides continuous mechanical tension to prevent disconnection during use, while allowing easy separation when needed for cleaning. The tether's friction-fit connectors serve as mediators that enable both secure attachment and simple release.
2Reliability
If adhesives are applied to increase connection strength, then the connection stability improves, but the cleaning process becomes more difficult and the adhesive wears over time
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using permanent adhesives that degrade and require replacement, the patent employs a disposable or easily replaceable tether with friction-fit connectors. The tether can be quickly removed and replaced without cleaning adhesives from the mask or hose interfaces, making maintenance simple and cost-effective.
3Reliability
If the hose is frequently disconnected and reconnected for cleaning, then hygiene is maintained, but time is lost and connection stability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tether is pre-attached to the mask with a secure friction fit before the user begins cleaning the hose. This preliminary attachment ensures that even if the hose connection is temporarily lost during cleaning, the tether maintains the connection stability, eliminating the need for frequent reconnection and saving time.
4Reliability
If the CPAP hose is replaced when disconnection issues occur, then connection reliability improves, but cost increases and waste is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the tether component from the hose and mask, allowing the tether to be replaced independently if it wears out, while the hose and mask can continue to be used. This segmentation prevents the need to replace the entire hose assembly, reducing material waste and cost.
5Reliability
If a secure mechanical connection is used to prevent disconnection, then connection stability improves, but cleaning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The friction-fit connectors provide dynamic connection characteristics: they maintain secure attachment under normal use conditions through continuous tension from the tether, but allow easy separation when needed for cleaning. The connection transitions between held and released states based on applied force, optimizing both stability and accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a first ring and a second ring. The first ring may have a first diameter and a first cutout portion. The second ring may have a second diameter and a second cutout portion, and may further comprise a pair of protrusions extending upwardly from a surface of the ring. A tubular connector may couple the first ring and the second ring. In some embodiments, a sensor may be coupled to the tubular connector. The sensor may include an alarm and a breakaway connector.