Nebulizer Data Carrier Mesh Usage Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nebulizers require frequent cleaning of mesh components, leading to performance deterioration and premature replacement due to blockages, and interchangeable parts necessitate identification for proper drug delivery control.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a data carrier and data reader system in nebulizer components, such as the mesh assembly, mouthpiece, medication chamber, and plunger assembly, to identify and communicate information about the attached parts, enabling controlled operation and tracking of component usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mesh components are used in nebulizers, then aerosol generation is effective, but mesh holes become blocked requiring frequent cleaning and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects mesh blockage conditions and manages replacement timing without requiring user intervention for cleaning schedules. The mesh assembly self-identifies its status through the data carrier, enabling the nebulizer to autonomously track usage and prompt replacement only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The data carrier on the mesh assembly provides continuous feedback to the nebulizer about the mesh's operational status, usage count, and blockage conditions. This feedback mechanism enables the system to monitor mesh health and notify users of replacement needs based on actual condition rather than fixed schedules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable parts are used in nebulizers, then device adaptability is improved, but identification of attached parts becomes necessary for proper control
Solution Approach 1:
The data carrier acts as an intermediary between the interchangeable part and the nebulizer control system. It carries identification information that enables the nebulizer to recognize and adapt to the specific type of attached component, ensuring proper operation without complex mechanical identification mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical identification systems with electronic data carriers that store and transmit part identification information. This substitution enables more reliable and information-rich identification compared to traditional mechanical coding systems.
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
Reduces the burden of frequent cleaning and extends mesh lifespan by preventing overuse, ensures accurate drug delivery based on attached components, and provides timely replacement alerts, improving overall nebulizer efficiency and patient convenience.
Implementation Method 1
Piezo-mesh based nebulizers are commonly used to generate aerosols in such drug delivery apparatus, whereby a piezoelectric element vibrates a mesh to produce the fine aerosol spray.
Data Source
AI summary
A nebulizer (1) comprises one or more removable components (5,7,9,13), for example a mesh assembly (9), mouthpiece, plunger assembly (7) and medication chamber (13), each having an associated data carrier (5a, 7a, 9a). The data carrier (5a, 7a, 9a) can be used to store information indicating the type of removable component (5,7,9,13) that is fitted to the nebulizer (1). A removable component (5,7,9,13) may be from a set of such removable components. For example, a mouthpiece (5) fitted to the nebulizer (1) may be from a set of mouthpieces having different flow rates. The data carrier (5a, 7a, 9a) may also be used to control operation of the nebulizer (1). A data carrier (9a) attached to a mesh (9) may be used to prevent the nebulizer (1) from being used when the mesh (9) has been used a predetermined number of times.