Disposable Inflatable Membrane Isolation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional isolation systems are not disposable, require complex rigid structures, have a large form factor, are not compatible with medical grade oxygen, and rely on costly negative pressure systems, making them unsuitable for portable and efficient use.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, portable, disposable membrane made of medical grade polymer that inflates from a small form factor for storage to an expanded state for use, with integrated ports for oxygen ingress and exhaust gas egress, using positive pressure for isolation without rigid structural supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional isolation apparatuses use rigid structures to maintain form, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible inflatable membrane structure instead of rigid support frameworks. The membrane itself, when inflated, provides the necessary structural form and stability through internal positive pressure, eliminating the need for complex rigid support structures while maintaining isolation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses positive pressure (pneumatics) to maintain the inflated state of the membrane structure. This pneumatic support system replaces rigid mechanical structures, allowing the membrane to assume and maintain its isolating form through internal pressure rather than external rigid supports.
2Reliability
If conventional isolation apparatuses use negative pressure systems for isolation, then isolation effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using negative pressure systems that require complex ventilation equipment, the patent inverts the approach by using positive pressure. The membrane is inflated with oxygen or air to create positive pressure, which simplifies the system while maintaining isolation effectiveness through a different pressure differential mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable inflatable membrane structure that eliminates the need for expensive, complex negative pressure ventilation systems. The membrane and its components are designed as single-use, reducing overall system cost and complexity while maintaining adequate isolation performance for the intended application.
3Reliability
If conventional isolation apparatuses are designed for continuous use, then reliability is improved, but portability and storage efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a disposable inflatable membrane system that prioritizes portability and storage efficiency over continuous reuse. The lightweight, compact deflated structure can be easily stored and transported, while the disposable nature eliminates the need for cleaning and maintenance infrastructure, making it ideal for mobile and temporary isolation applications.
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 low-cost, portable, and self-supporting isolation system that is compatible with medical grade oxygen, reduces the risk of contamination, and allows for easy patient monitoring and transport while minimizing exposure to infectious diseases.
Implementation Method 1
a positive pressure-based isolation system
Implementation Method 2
the membrane expands from a contracted state having a small form-factor for storage to an expanded state for use
Implementation Method 3
the outlet port intrinsically functioning as a passive pressure regulator
Implementation Method 4
an outlet port for egress of exhaust gases via an associated exhaust filter assembly
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an isolation system, comprising a flexible, portable, disposable membrane with no rigid structures. The membrane inflates from a contracted state having a small form-factor for storage to an inflated state for use. The membrane has an opening on one side defining a chamber within, with the opening having a sealing member that when closed, seals off the chamber. The membrane includes a first port for ingress of gas into the chamber a second port for egress of exhaust gas via an associated exhaust filter assembly, with the second port intrinsically functioning as a passive pressure regulator.