Dual-Module Nebulizer With Partitioned Nozzle for Respiratory Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nebulization devices lack the ability to actively synchronize with ventilator respiratory rates, leading to asynchronous nebulization and respiration, and suffer from design flaws that make it difficult to detect weak gas flows and prevent electronic component damage from water accumulation.

Innovation Solution

A dual-module nebulization device with a gas flow detection structure, including a sensor in a partitioned nozzle, that can detect respiratory states and adjust nebulization frequency accordingly, and a waterproof design to prevent sensor damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the nebulizer sprays at a fixed rate without active detection, then the device structure is simple, but asynchronous phenomenon between nebulization and respiration occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoidsynchronization of nebulization and respiration
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a sensor detects the respiratory rate of the user in real-time, and the control unit adjusts the nebulization frequency accordingly. The sensor signals are transmitted to the control unit, which automatically regulates the nebulization module to match the user's breathing rhythm, ensuring synchronized nebulization and respiration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting respiratory parameters and regulating nebulization frequency without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously processes sensor data and modifies operating parameters to maintain optimal synchronization between nebulization and user respiration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the gas flow detection structure is added to detect respiratory rate, then the synchronization of nebulization and respiration is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization of nebulization and respirationVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gas flow detection structure serves multiple functions: it detects respiratory rate for synchronization control, monitors gas flow through the ventilator circuit, and provides feedback for automatic frequency adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable synchronization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the gas flow detection function with the existing nebulization device structure. The sensor and control unit are integrated into the nebulization apparatus, merging respiratory detection, nebulization control, and frequency adjustment into a single unified system, thus minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If the sensor is placed in the gas flow chamber, then the gas flow detection precision is improved, but the sensor is vulnerable to water damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas flow detection precisionVSAvoidwater damage to sensor
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a waterproof protective structure, likely involving flexible membranes or sealed housings, to protect the sensor from water exposure while allowing it to remain positioned in the gas flow chamber for accurate detection. This protective barrier enables the sensor to maintain high measurement precision without being vulnerable to water damage from accumulated nebulized liquid.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

A protective intermediate structure or material is introduced between the sensor and the water-containing environment. This intermediary element allows the sensor to detect gas flow accurately while preventing direct contact with water, thus resolving the conflict between detection precision and water vulnerability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Measurement precision

If the partition plate is added to divide the nozzle, then the gas flow detection precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas flow detection precisionVSAvoidnozzle manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The nozzle is segmented by a partition plate that divides it into separate chambers: a nebulization chamber and a gas flow detection chamber. This segmentation allows the sensor to be positioned in the detection chamber where gas flow patterns are more predictable and measurable, improving detection precision. The partition plate creates distinct functional zones within the nozzle structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The partition plate introduces a spatial dimension to the nozzle design, creating separate three-dimensional zones for nebulization and detection functions. This dimensional separation allows optimized gas flow paths for each function, improving measurement precision while the partition plate itself can be manufactured using standard machining or molding techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 ensures synchronized nebulization and respiration, preventing asynchronous phenomena and protecting electronic components from water damage, while being convenient and flexible for use.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor arranged in the slot for detecting gas flowing through the lower gas flow chamber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas flow detection:

Implementation Method 2

A bottom portion in the nozzle is provided with a partition plate that divides an interior of the nozzle into an upper nebulization chamber and a lower gas flow chamber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical separation:

Implementation Method 3

a nebulization sheet arranged on one side of the liquid medicine bottle and communicated with the nozzle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNebulization:

Data Source

PatentUS11752277B2Nebulization device having dual modules
Publication Date: 2023.09.12 HUA JIAN
  • US11752277B2 patent drawing
  • US11752277B2 patent drawing
  • US11752277B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A nebulization device having dual modules includes: a nebulization host machine; a three-way tube communicated with the nebulization host machine; and a controller connected to the nebulization host machine; the nebulization host machine further includes a side cover, a nozzle arranged on a lower side of the side cover, a liquid medicine bottle arranged on an upper side of the side cover and communicated with the nozzle, a nebulization sheet arranged on one side of the liquid medicine bottle and communicated with the nozzle, and a first plug-in interface arranged below the liquid medicine bottle; a bottom portion within an interior of the nozzle is provided with a partition plate that divides the interior of the nozzle into an upper nebulization chamber and a lower gas flow chamber.