Infant Chin Support with Adjustable Straps for Oxygen Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Newborns require a chin support to maintain a closed mouth position during oxygen therapy, as their lungs are not developed enough to keep air sacs patent, and existing solutions are not compact, adjustable, or comfortable for various head sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A chin support apparatus with thin, flexible support sections and straps that extend between the chin and ears, featuring adjustable straps with cupping configurations and adhesive or VELCRO for secure retention, made from soft, breathable materials to accommodate different head sizes and prevent sliding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a chin support device is provided for infants, then the mouth can be maintained in closed position, but the device may slide back and forth on the infant's chin or neck
Solution Approach 1:
The chin support device is divided into multiple functional segments: a chin cup portion that cradles the chin, cheek straps that extend laterally, and head straps that secure to the head. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while distributing the retention force across multiple contact points, preventing sliding while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the device have specialized local characteristics: the chin cup has a cupping configuration with adhesive or VELCRO material on its inner surface for secure chin retention, while the cheek straps have lateral extensions for broader distribution. This localized functional differentiation ensures stable retention without sliding.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the chin support device is made adjustable for various head sizes and shapes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable components including Velcro® closures and hook-and-loop fasteners that allow dynamic adjustment of strap lengths and tensions. This enables the device to be customized for different infant head sizes and shapes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that does not slide during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A chin support for an infant comprising thin, flexible support sections applicable to infant facial zones spaced below the ears, first flexible support straps extending sidewardly between the support sections between and over upper and lower chin zones, below mouth level, and second flexible support straps extending upwardly and rearwardly of ear zones and to upper head zones, for chin retention, with balanced force exertion, there being a crescent shape gap.