Dual-Layer Hyperbaric Oxygen Enclosure for Rigid Pressure Cycling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing topical hyperbaric oxygen devices with single-layer inflatable bags tend to collapse when oxygen pressure is reduced, risking contact with the wound and inadequate treatment.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible hyperbaric oxygen device with a dual-layer enclosure made of fluid-impermeable material, featuring an inflatable cuff or strap seal to maintain rigidity during pressure cycling, preventing the bag from collapsing and ensuring consistent oxygen delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single-layer inflatable bag is used in a topical hyperbaric device, then the device is flexible and easy to apply, but the bag collapses when oxygen pressure is reduced during pulsated delivery

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The single-layer bag is divided into two separate sheets (inner sheet and outer sheet) that are sealed together at the ends, creating a dual-layer structure with a space between them. This segmentation allows the bag to maintain structural integrity while remaining flexible, as the two sheets work together to prevent collapse during pressure cycling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inner sheet is nested within the outer sheet, creating a concentric dual-layer structure. The space between the nested sheets provides structural support that prevents the bag from collapsing when oxygen pressure is reduced, while the overall structure remains flexible and conformable to the extremity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Device complexity

If a single-layer bag is used, then the device structure is simple, but the bag contacts the wound during pressure reduction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural complexityVSAvoidwound contact risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the single layer into two separate sheets sealed at the ends, the invention creates a space between the sheets that acts as a buffer. This prevents the bag from collapsing and contacting the wound during pressure reduction, while adding only minimal structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dual-layer structure with space between the sheets provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining a minimum distance between the bag and the wound. This prevents direct contact and potential harm before it can occur during pressure cycling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Stability of the object's composition

If a dual-layer enclosure is used, then the bag maintains rigidity during pressure cycling, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverigidity maintenanceVSAvoidenclosure structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dual-layer enclosure is created by sealing two sheets at their ends, forming a simple yet effective structure that maintains rigidity. The segmentation into two sheets provides structural stability without requiring complex frameworks or support mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses flexible sheets (such as plastic or foil materials) to create the dual-layer enclosure. These thin films maintain rigidity when pressurized while remaining flexible enough to conform to the extremity, avoiding the need for rigid structural components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 device maintains a rigid state during pulsed oxygen delivery, preventing contact with the wound and enhancing treatment efficacy while being comfortable and easy to use, with the added benefit of flexibility for various extremities.

Implementation Method 1

gas can be delivered between the sheets to inflate the enclosure to a substantially rigid condition and maintain the enclosure in the substantially rigid condition when oxygen pressure in the interior of the enclosure is cycled between first and second pressures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure differential: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS7540283B2Hyperbaric oxygen devices and delivery methods
Publication Date: 2009.06.02 AOTI INC
  • US7540283B2 patent drawing
  • US7540283B2 patent drawing
  • US7540283B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hyperbaric oxygen device and methods of applying hyperbaric oxygen are disclosed. The device comprises an enclosure including a collapsible bag defined by two sheets of fluid impervious material sealed together at both ends such that gas can be delivered between the sheets to inflate the enclosure to a rigid state and maintain the enclosure in the rigid state when oxygen pressure in the interior of the enclosure is cycled between ambient pressure and above ambient pressure.