Disposable Sip-and-Puff Module for Hygienic Pressure Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Breath-operated interface devices, such as 'sip-and-puff' devices, are prone to contamination due to direct user interaction, necessitating an economical solution for improved hygiene.
Innovation Solution
A breath-operated interface device comprising a disposable module with a breath tube and pressure differential switches that can be actuated by changes in pressure, coupled with a reusable base for detachable electrical connection, allowing for easy replacement and hygiene maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a breath-operated interface device is used for normal operation, then the device can be operated by individuals with limited motor control, but the device becomes contaminated through direct user interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two distinct segments: a reusable base unit and a disposable module. The disposable module contains all components that come into contact with the user (breath tube, mouthpiece, pressure differential switch), while the base contains non-contact components (electronic circuitry, signal coupler). This segmentation allows the contact portion to be easily replaced while retaining the expensive base unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a disposable module that is intended for single-use or limited-use before replacement. This module includes the breath tube, mouthpiece, and pressure differential switch - all components that become contaminated during use. By making this portion disposable, the system eliminates the need for complex sterilization processes while maintaining hygiene standards.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the entire breath-operated interface device is made disposable to prevent contamination, then hygiene is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device architecture separates components into disposable and reusable segments. Only the necessary contact portions (mouthpiece, breath tube, pressure switch) are made disposable, while the expensive base unit with electronic circuitry is retained. This selective disposability optimizes the balance between hygiene and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows discarding of only the contaminated disposable module while recovering and reusing the base unit. This partial discarding strategy reduces waste and cost compared to disposing of the entire device, while still achieving the hygiene goal of eliminating cross-contamination between users.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the disposable module includes all necessary components for breath operation, then hygiene is maintained through replacement, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disposable module merges multiple previously separate components (breath tube, mouthpiece, pressure differential switch, and associated wiring) into a single integrated unit. This merging simplifies the replacement process - users simply detach and replace the entire module rather than individually replacing multiple components. The base unit's signal coupler is designed to universally accept this integrated module.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with a universal signal coupler that can accept different disposable modules. This universality allows the expensive base to be used with multiple different module types, reducing overall system complexity and allowing standardization of the interface while maintaining hygiene through module replacement.
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 solution provides a hygienic and cost-effective breath-operated interface device that prevents contamination by using disposable modules with pressure differential switches, enabling reliable operation while maintaining the base for repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
A first pressure differential switch is in pneumatic communication with the breath tube. The first pressure differential switch is configured to be actuated by a change in pressure in the breath tube.
Data Source
AI summary
A breath-operated interface device having a disposable module and a base. The disposable module having a breath tube with an inlet. A first pressure differential switch is in pneumatic communication with the breath tube and configured to be actuated by a change in pressure in the breath tube. A first signal coupler of the disposable module is in electrical communication with the first pressure differential switch to receive a signal according to an actuation state of the first pressure differential switch. The device may also include a base with a second signal coupler, where the second signal coupler is configured to detachably electrically connect with the first signal coupler of the disposable module. The base also includes a station interconnect configured to interface with an external system, such as, for example, a nurse call system.