Inflatable Connector Blocked Pipe Type Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic inflatable devices for massaging and exercising bedridden patients require manual adjustment of air pressure settings for different body areas, which is inconvenient and may result in unsuitable pressure application, potentially leading to blood clots and edema.
Innovation Solution
A system that automatically detects the type of inflatable device connected to an air supply device by using a connector with blocked and open air inlet pipes, allowing the pressure detection unit to determine the device type and regulate air pressure accordingly, ensuring proper pressure for effective massage and exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of air pressure settings is used for different body areas, then the device can be operated, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for frequent manual changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the inflatable device type through the connector configuration (blocked vs. open air inlet pipes) and autonomously selecting the appropriate air pressure setting, eliminating the need for manual intervention and frequent adjustments by the user
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using the pressure detection unit to monitor the connector configuration and automatically adjusting the air pressure supply based on the detected inflatable device type, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to different body areas
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed air pressure settings are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates because different body areas require different pressure levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by using the connector's physical configuration (specifically which air inlet pipes are blocked vs. open) to encode information about the inflatable device type, allowing the pressure detection unit to locally identify the connected device and select appropriate pressure settings without complex external inputs
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment of pressure settings with an automated detection and control system that uses pressure detection through the connector to electronically determine device type and automatically control the air supply pressure
3Reliability
If wrong air pressure values are applied, then the device can be used, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential blood clots and edema
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides beforehand cushioning by preemptively detecting the inflatable device type through the connector configuration and pre-selecting the appropriate air pressure setting before inflation begins, preventing harmful effects from incorrect pressure application
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure detection unit provides continuous feedback about the connector configuration to the control system, ensuring that the correct air pressure is maintained throughout operation based on the detected inflatable device type, thereby preventing harmful effects
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting and determining the type of an inflatable device being coupled with an air supply device is disclosed. The inflatable device includes an inflatable unit connected to a connector via an air delivery line. The air supply device includes a pressurized air supply unit and a pressure detection unit connected to a coupler. The connector is coupled with the coupler via several air inlet pipes. One of the air inlet pipes is a blocked pipe, a relative position of which on the connector varies with the type of the inflatable unit. The pressure detection unit determines the inflatable unit type by detecting the relative position of the blocked air inlet pipe, and the pressurized air supply unit supplies air of suitable pressure to the inflatable unit according to the type thereof, enabling the inflatable unit to properly massage a user's muscles to improve the blood circulation thereof.