Nasal Irrigator Segmentation Prevents Cross-Infection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nasal irrigators are prone to cross-infection when shared among multiple users, and the concentration of sodium chloride solutions used for nasal washing is difficult to control accurately, leading to either ineffective washing or nasal irritation.
Innovation Solution
A solution preparation device and an electric nasal irrigator system that allows for precise control of saline solution concentration, featuring a dual-chamber device with mixers and valves to prepare and adjust the solution concentration, and a nasal irrigator design that prevents cross-infection by using independent handheld packages for each user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a one-piece structure nasal irrigator is used to simplify the device structure, then device complexity is reduced, but cross-infection risk increases when shared by multiple users
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal irrigator is divided into multiple independent parts: a reusable main body and disposable handheld packages. Each handheld package contains individual nasal plugs and solution, creating separate usage units for different users while maintaining a simple overall device structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If fixed concentration nasal irrigating solution is used to simplify solution preparation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability decreases for different users and clinical symptoms
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides multiple handheld packages with different NaCl solution concentrations (e.g., 0.9%, 1.5%, 2.0%) to accommodate different users and clinical conditions. Users can select the appropriate concentration based on their specific needs, such as lower concentrations for infants and higher concentrations for adults with severe congestion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users prepare saline solution themselves to reduce cost and increase versatility, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inaccurate concentration control
Solution Approach 1:
The solution is pre-prepared and pre-packaged in factory-controlled conditions with precise concentration control. Each handheld package contains a sealed vial with accurately formulated NaCl solution, eliminating the need for users to perform their own solution preparation while ensuring concentration accuracy.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple concentrations of nasal washing solution are purchased to meet different usage needs, then adaptability is improved, but loss of substance increases due to waste of unused solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses disposable handheld packages, each containing a single-use volume of solution at a specific concentration. After one use, the package is discarded, eliminating the need to store multiple concentrations and preventing waste from unused solutions. The low cost of individual packages makes this economically viable.
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
The system enables accurate and safe nasal washing by allowing each user to customize the saline solution concentration, reducing the risk of cross-infection and ensuring effective nasal cleaning without irritation.
Implementation Method 1
a first mixer and a second mixer. The first mixer is provided at the top cover and extends into the first chamber when the top cover is connected to the casing, and the first mixer is electrically connected with the circuit board. The second mixer is provided at the top cover and extends into the second chamber
Implementation Method 2
The flow valve is provided in the mixing channel. The on-off valve is provided in the discharge channel
Implementation Method 3
a vacuum source for creating a relatively negative pressure in the collection container
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a solution preparation device and a nasal irrigator. The solution preparation device includes a casing, a flow valve, an on-off valve, a top cover, a first mixer, and a second mixer. A partition is provided in the casing and divides a receiving space into a first chamber and a second chamber. The partition is provided with a mixing channel communicated with the first and second chambers, and a part of the bottom plate corresponding to the second chamber is provided with a discharge channel. The flow valve is arranged in the mixing channel, and the on-off valve is arranged in the discharge channel. Each of the first and second mixers is provided at the top cover, and extends into a respective one of the first and second chambers when the top cover is connected to the casing.