Multi-function Oxygen Mask with Integrated Gas Delivery Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current oxygen masks lack multi-functionality, requiring multiple masks for various medical treatments, increasing inventory costs and patient discomfort, and underperforming at high oxygen concentrations with low volumetric flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function oxygen mask design featuring a mask body with a gas delivery adapter that includes ports for oxygen supply, meter-dose inhaler, and nebulizer, allowing for concurrent administration of multiple treatments without interrupting oxygen delivery, with a sealing edge that conforms to the patient's face for comfort and reduced claustrophobia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialty masks are used for different medical treatments, then each treatment can be delivered effectively, but inventory costs increase and patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple treatment functions into a single oxygen mask device. The mask body includes multiple ports and chambers that can accommodate different medical treatments simultaneously - oxygen delivery through the main body, nebulizer treatments through a dedicated port, MDI (metered-dose inhaler) through another port, and naso-gastric tube access through a fourth port. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate masks while maintaining all required treatment capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialty masks are kept at patient bedside, then all treatments are available, but patient psychological comfort deteriorates due to intimidation
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating all treatment functions into one mask, the patent eliminates the visual presence of multiple intimidating masks at the patient bedside. The single multi-functional mask appears less threatening while providing the same comprehensive treatment capabilities, thereby reducing patient anxiety and psychological distress.
3Reliability
If a specific specialty mask is located for emergency treatment, then the correct treatment can be provided, but response time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-functional mask contains all treatment capabilities within a single device, eliminating the need to search for or switch between different specialty masks during emergencies. Healthcare providers can immediately administer any required treatment (oxygen, nebulizer, MDI, or naso-gastric tube) without delay, as all functions are integrated and readily accessible in one mask.
4Ease of operation
If oxygen mask is removed for eating or drinking, then patient can communicate and eat, but oxygen concentration is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The mask body is segmented into multiple functional zones with dedicated ports for different activities. The design includes specific openings and ports that allow food and liquid passage while maintaining the oxygen seal, enabling patients to eat and drink without removing the mask. The segmented structure permits simultaneous oxygen delivery and oral intake.
5Device complexity
If standard oxygen mask is used, then oxygen delivery is simple, but high oxygen concentrations at low flow rates cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a venturi mechanism that creates localized high-velocity oxygen flow through a restricted aperture. This local quality enhancement allows the mask to generate high oxygen concentrations (up to 60% or higher) at low overall flow rates by utilizing venturi effect - where the restricted opening creates a suction effect that draws in additional oxygen, concentrating it without requiring high total flow.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-function oxygen mask is disclosed which generally comprises a mask body and a gas delivery adapter. The mask body forms an internal cavity configured to cover a nose and mouth of a patient. A nasal chamber is formed in the upper portion of the mask body, the nasal chamber includes an upper portion, a lower portion and a gas delivery adapter aperture adjacent the lower portion of the nasal chamber. An access aperture is formed through and adjacent to the lower portion of the mask body. The access aperture is configured to permit access to the mouth of a patient. The gas delivery adapter has a general tubular structure and includes a first end and opposing second end, the first end of the gas delivery adapter is coupled to the gas delivery adapter aperture. An oxygen supply port radially extends outward from the gas delivery adapter and adjacent to the first end of the gas delivery adapter. The oxygen supply port further includes an external inlet portion, an outlet portion positioned within a volumetric space of the gas delivery adapter and a diverter member adjacent to the outlet portion. The diverter member is configured to direct a flow towards the first end of the gas delivery adapter. A meter-dose inhaler port radially extends outward from the gas delivery adapter. Finally, the gas delivery adapter includes a meter-dose inhaler port and a nebulizer port.