Modular Oxygen Mask Cartridge With Spring Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional emergency breathing mask deployment systems require manual repacking by aircraft technicians, which is time-consuming and costly, and do not provide a deployment mechanism other than gravity, especially in aircraft with sidewall or seat-mounted configurations.
Innovation Solution
A pre-packaged, modular oxygen mask system with a cartridge design that includes a supplemental ejection device, such as a spring-biased piston or pneumatic actuation, allowing for quick installation and deployment without manual handling of components, and can be mounted in various orientations using quick connect fittings and mechanical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional manual repacking methods are used, then masks can be deployed, but the process is time-consuming and costly requiring technician intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the mask assembly into modular components (mask, tube, reservoir bag, strap) that are pre-organized in a cartridge. This segmentation allows the entire assembly to be deployed as a single unit without requiring technicians to manually handle and repack individual components, eliminating time-consuming manual operations while maintaining deployment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask components are pre-assembled and pre-positioned within the cartridge during manufacturing. The cartridge is designed with pre-formed compartments and guide structures that hold components in their correct deployment positions. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming manual repacking operations, as the system is already prepared for immediate deployment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If gravity-only deployment is used, then simple mechanism is provided, but masks cannot be deployed in sidewall or seat-mounted configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed with a universal deployment mechanism that can function in any orientation (ceiling, sidewall, or seat-mounted). The spring-loaded piston and guide structure work regardless of gravitational direction, allowing the same device to be mounted anywhere in the aircraft. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability without requiring separate deployment mechanisms for different orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a spring-loaded piston mechanism that provides active ejection force to deploy masks in any orientation. The spring mechanism compensates for gravitational effects in different orientations, ensuring reliable deployment whether mounted in the ceiling, sidewall, or seat. This pneumatic/mechanical approach adds versatility while keeping the mechanism relatively simple and self-contained.
3Reliability
If masks are manually handled and repacked, then components can be replaced, but labor costs increase and readiness time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask, tube, reservoir bag, and strap are merged into a single pre-assembled cartridge unit. This combination allows the entire assembly to be replaced as one unit during maintenance, eliminating the need for technicians to manually handle and repack individual components. The merged design maintains reliability by ensuring all components are pre-configured correctly, while simplifying service operations to a single cartridge replacement action.
4Manufacturing precision
If components are carefully folded and coiled for repacking, then masks deploy properly without tangling, but the repacking process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mask components are nested within the cartridge structure with the tube coiled in a predetermined pattern, the reservoir bag positioned in a specific compartment, and the strap arranged in a guide channel. This nested arrangement ensures proper deployment without tangling while eliminating the need for time-consuming manual folding and coiling operations. The cartridge structure itself provides the nesting geometry, maintaining manufacturing precision without sacrificing productivity.
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
Eliminates the need for manual repacking of oxygen masks, providing a reliable and efficient deployment mechanism that can operate in any aircraft orientation, reducing labor costs and ensuring timely readiness during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid actuated piston assembly may be provided to disengage the latch. Once the latch is released, the spring will advance the piston into the mask assembly which will in turn push against the cover to open the end of the cartridge.
Implementation Method 2
A solenoid actuated piston assembly may be provided to disengage the latch.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for deploying oxygen masks that includes a pre-packaged modular system that does not require manual repacking of oxygen masks by aircraft technicians. The cartridge is for use with a manifold having a passageway in fluid communication with a source of breathable gas. The cartridge includes an end wall, a sidewall extending from the end wall and terminating at a distal end adjacent to an opening. A flexible member defines a chamber inside the cartridge. The chamber is in fluid communication with the passageway when the cartridge is coupled to the manifold. The flexible member has an outlet. A mask assembly is disposed inside the cartridge. The mask assembly has a hose coupled to the outlet of the flexible member. A cover is removably attached to the distal end of the at least one side wall.