Breath Analyzer Mouthpiece with Ejection and Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Breath analysis devices require sanitary handling of mouthpieces that come into contact with bodily fluids, as existing devices often necessitate direct contact for removal, posing unsanitary risks for users and administrators.
Innovation Solution
A mouthpiece with an integrated ejection mechanism, such as a lever and textured ejection surface, allows for safe removal without direct contact with contaminated areas, using biocompatible materials like polyethylene or metal, and can be easily integrated into existing breath analysis devices at minimal cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If direct contact is used to remove the mouthpiece from the breath analysis device, then the removal process is simple, but it poses unsanitary risks due to contact with bodily fluids and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an ejection mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the user and the contaminated mouthpiece. This mechanism includes an ejection surface that allows the user to apply force through a tool or finger without directly contacting the contaminated portions of the mouthpiece, thereby eliminating the sanitary risk while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The mouthpiece is segmented into distinct functional zones: a contaminated zone that contacts the subject's mouth and a clean zone that includes the ejection mechanism. This segmentation allows the user to interact only with the clean zone during removal, preventing exposure to bodily fluids and debris in the contaminated zone
2Object-affected harmful factors
If an ejection mechanism is added to the mouthpiece to enable sanitary removal, then user safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides a sanitary removal interface, acts as an alignment guide during insertion, and can be integrated with the existing mouthpiece structure. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single structural addition
Solution Approach 2:
The ejection mechanism is merged with the existing mouthpiece structure rather than being a separate component. The ejection surface is formed as an integral part of the mouthpiece body, combining the ejection function with the existing structural elements and minimizing the increase in device complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If the ejection mechanism extends perpendicularly from the mouthpiece to aid alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but it may obstruct access to ports or impinge airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection mechanism is positioned at a specific location on the mouthpiece where it provides alignment functionality without interfering with port access or airflow. The local geometry is optimized so that the ejection surface extends in a direction that guides insertion while maintaining clear access to all functional ports and preserving unobstructed airflow through the mouthpiece
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
Enables sanitary ejection of the mouthpiece from breath analysis devices, reducing the risk of contamination and simplifying the handling process while maintaining airflow and access to ports, thus enhancing user safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A second portion of the eject mechanism may extend perpendicularly from the first portion of the eject mechanism. In other aspects, this second portion of the eject mechanism may be textured to provide traction.
Implementation Method 2
The mouthpiece may be adapted to attach to the testing device by frictional attachment, or in another detachable manner.
Data Source
AI summary
A mouthpiece with an eject mechanism is disclosed. The mouthpiece includes an eject mechanism adapted to conform to a testing device, such as a breath analysis device. The eject mechanism allows for hygienic removal of a used mouthpiece from the testing device. A guiding surface allows for alignment of the mouthpiece with the testing device.