Single-Sided Modular Oxygen Cannula with Universal Headgear Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current oxygen and air delivery systems are not portable, fashionable, or convenient for daily use, particularly for individuals who need higher quality air, as they often convey a negative image and restrict activity due to their design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A single-sided modular portable gas delivery system that integrates oxygen and air filtration with telecommunications and audio devices, allowing for comfortable and discreet oxygen delivery through adapters for earpieces, headsets, helmets, caps, visors, and eyeglasses, along with a wireless transceiver and adjustable fittings for secure and stylish use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional oxygen delivery systems (carts with tanks, standard masks) are used, then oxygen delivery function is achieved, but portability and social image are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the oxygen delivery apparatus into separate functional modules: a wearable gas delivery pack containing the oxygen tank and compression mechanism, and a separate cannula assembly for nasal insertion. This segmentation allows the heavy tank to be isolated from the user's face, improving comfort and aesthetics while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas delivery pack is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can attach to various headgear types including hats, helmets, and eyeglasses frames. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve multiple users and occasions, improving ease of operation while reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Ease of operation
If traditional oxygen masks are worn, then oxygen delivery is achieved, but social image and comfort are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The oxygen delivery function is extracted from the traditional mask design and integrated into a pack that attaches to external headgear. This removes the need for a face-covering mask, allowing users to maintain their appearance and social image while still receiving oxygen therapy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies oxygen delivery locally through a small cannula inserted into the nostril, rather than requiring a full-face mask. This localized approach provides sufficient oxygen delivery while leaving the rest of the face visible and unobtrusive, improving both comfort and social perception.
3Adaptability or versatility
If oxygen delivery system is made portable and stylish, then ease of operation and image are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable and movable components that can adapt to different headgear configurations. The bracket and connector assemblies can be positioned and secured in various locations on hats, helmets, and eyeglasses, providing dynamic adaptability without requiring multiple custom-designed devices.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal mounting bracket serves as an intermediary component between the gas delivery pack and various headgear types. This intermediary simplifies the overall system by providing a single interface that can connect to multiple different headgear configurations, reducing the complexity of designing separate attachment mechanisms for each application.
4Adaptability or versatility
If oxygen delivery is combined with telecommunications and audio devices, then versatility and user experience are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the oxygen delivery function with telecommunications and audio equipment by integrating mounting capabilities that accommodate both types of devices. The same universal bracket system can secure the gas delivery pack, headset, or earpiece, allowing multiple functions to coexist without requiring separate mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal mounting interface provides multi-functionality by being compatible with various device types including communication headsets and audio equipment. This allows users to combine oxygen delivery with their daily communication needs without adding significant complexity, as the same mounting system serves all purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer for a single-sided modular cannula portable gas delivery system to secure a mouthpiece or nosepiece, a gas delivery pack and a single-sided modular medical cannula tubing assembly. An over-the ear secured modular mounting sleeve having an elongated central semi-circular cavity for securing a nasal cannula. A pair of engaged discs allow the cavity to rotate. The pair of discs have a plurality of elevated ridges that lock the semi-circular cavity in angular relationship to the ear piece. The ear piece has a malleable metal insert that is located at least partially within the ear piece that allows the ear piece to be bent for comfort.