Multifunction Connector for Ventilation Masks with Rotating Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-invasive ventilation connectors are bulky, require multiple accessories, cause discomfort, and can lead to fluid flow reduction due to fixed nozzle configurations, increasing treatment complexity and risk of infection.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional connector with rotating joints, integrated accessories, and a compact design that allows for simultaneous administration of medications and ventilation, reducing the need for interruptions and minimizing infection risks, while being easy to clean and connect correctly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors and accessories are used to meet different ventilation needs, then the required interfaces for different patients can be provided, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector that integrates multiple functions (ventilation connection, oxygen supply, medication administration via MDI inlet, and expiratory outlet) into a single device. This allows one connector to serve multiple purposes for different patient needs, eliminating the requirement for separate connectors and accessories while maintaining interface compatibility across different ventilation systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors and accessories are used, then different patient needs can be met, but the time required to select and connect the correct components increases
Solution Approach 1:
By providing a single universal connector that includes all necessary interfaces (ventilation inlet, oxygen inlet, MDI inlet, expiratory outlet) in one device, the need to select and prepare multiple separate components is eliminated. Healthcare professionals can directly connect the universal connector to the ventilation system without time-consuming selection and assembly processes.
3Device complexity
If known connectors with fixed nozzles are used, then the structure is simple, but the flexible tubes bend and flowrate is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed nozzles with rotating joints that allow the flexible tubes to rotate freely. This dynamic configuration prevents tube bending and maintains optimal flowrate by enabling the tubes to adjust their position relative to the connector body, while the rotating mechanism remains integrated within the connector structure.
4Ease of operation
If known connectors with protruding parts are used, then the connection interfaces are accessible, but the connectors cause discomfort when placed on the patient's chest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the expiratory outlet from a conventional location to a lateral position on the connector body. This spatial reconfiguration allows the connector to be placed against the patient's chest with the expiratory outlet directed away from the patient's body, eliminating protruding parts that cause discomfort while maintaining connection accessibility through the lateral opening.
5Ease of operation
If the ventilation circuit is opened to administer drugs, then medication can be given to the patient, but the ventilation treatment is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ventilation circuit by adding a separate MDI inlet that is independent from the main ventilation airflow path. This allows medication administration through the MDI inlet without opening or interrupting the ventilation circuit, enabling simultaneous medication delivery and continuous ventilation treatment.
6Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors are used, then specific functions can be provided, but the risk of infection increases due to circuit opening
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector integrates all necessary functions (ventilation, oxygen supply, medication administration) into a single closed circuit device. This eliminates the need to open the ventilation circuit for medication administration, thereby maintaining the closed circuit integrity and reducing infection risk while providing all required functional capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunction connector for non-invasive ventilation face masks comprises a base body and a plurality of functional connection elements protruding from the body and comprising: an inlet connectable to a ventilation system and an outlet connectable to a ventilation mask; an oxygen inlet connectable to an oxygen supply pipe; a flow reading outlet connectable to a flow measuring device; an MDI inlet configured to receive and engage a metered-dose inhaler device; optionally, an expiratory outlet configured for expulsion of an air flow from the body and for connection to a filter.