Medical Gas Supply Device Threaded Fitting Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current medical gas supply devices face challenges due to the lack of a globally recognized standard for threaded connections, leading to increased production and warehouse costs and limited flexibility, requiring multiple models and installation modifications for different connectors.

Innovation Solution

A medical gas supply device with a threaded fitting that can be quickly adapted by releasing external fastening means, featuring two interchangeable threaded connectors complying with different standards, and a locking system using a pin and groove mechanism for easy replacement and production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single threaded connector type is used in the device, then the manufacturing cost is reduced and production is simplified, but the adaptability to different regional standards and user needs is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different threaded connection standardsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The threaded fitting is designed to incorporate multiple threaded connectors of different types (e.g., different thread pitches, diameters, or standards) within a single component. This allows the device to universally connect to various regional standards and user appliance types without requiring multiple separate device models, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining a single device structure.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple device models with different outlet fittings are produced to meet international market demands, then the adaptability to different standards is improved, but the production cost and warehouse costs substantially increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different threaded connection standardsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple threaded connector options are merged into a single threaded fitting component. Instead of producing separate device models for different markets, the invention combines multiple connector types (e.g., different thread specifications) within one fitting that can be configured or selected based on the required standard, thereby reducing production variety and associated costs while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the threaded fitting is fixed and cannot be modified, then the device structure is simplified and more reliable, but the flexibility for end users to connect different appliance categories is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for connecting different appliance categoriesVSAvoidease of modification by end users
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The threaded fitting is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be modified or reconfigured by end users based on their specific needs. This may include features such as removable sections, interchangeable connector elements, or adjustable configurations that enable users to adapt the fitting for different appliance types without requiring complex tools or procedures, thereby improving both flexibility and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2732840B1Device for controlled supply of a medical gas
Publication Date: 2015.05.27 FLOW METER
  • EP2732840B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2732840B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2732840B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Device (1) for controlled supply of a medical gas, comprising a main body (2) which has, defined therein, at least one flow supply path extending between an inlet and an outlet (4); and a threaded fitting (40) for connection to a user appliance; said threaded fitting (40) communicating with the flow supply path and having at least one first threaded connector (41) defining the outlet (4) of said path. The device comprises means (5) for fastening the threaded fitting (40) to the main body (2), which can be released from outside the main body (2) so as to allow removal of said threaded fitting (40).