Aircraft Oxygen Mask Polyurethane Tube and Bag Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aircraft oxygen masks face challenges in assembly complexity due to multiple tube connections and interfaces, particularly with the introduction of flow indicators, which increase the number of connections and complicate the manufacturing process.

Innovation Solution

The use of polyurethane materials for both the breathing bag and tube eliminates the need for a pull-relief lanyard and reduces the number of tube connections by integrating a flow indicator directly into the connection piece, allowing for a single-part tube with simplified assembly and manufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a pull-relief lanyard is used to accommodate tensile forces in the breathing bag, then the tensile strength is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetensile strengthVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the pull-relief lanyard function directly into the breathing bag structure by creating a integrated loop configuration. The lanyard is formed as an integral part of the breathing bag, eliminating the need for separate attachment components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining tensile strength requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The breathing bag structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the oxygen storage and delivery function while also incorporating the pull-relief lanyard function through its integrated loop design. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated lanyard components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the tube is bonded to the breathing bag, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the chemical bonding process with a mechanical connection system. The tube is connected to the breathing bag through a mechanical interface that allows for reliable connection without requiring adhesive bonding, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and eliminating the need for additional bonding steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If a flow indicator is introduced into the tube, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow direction indicationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flow indicator is merged with the tube structure itself rather than being a separate component. The indication function is integrated into the tube design, eliminating additional interfaces and reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to indicate flow direction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tube connections are made, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection adaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tube connection design incorporates universal features that allow the same connection interface to serve multiple functions and accommodate different configuration requirements. This reduces the need for multiple specialized connection points while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10500423B2Passenger oxygen mask and breathing bag for an oxygen mask
Publication Date: 2019.12.10 BE AEROSPACE SYST GMBH
  • US10500423B2 patent drawing
  • US10500423B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a passenger oxygen mask for the emergency supply of oxygen in an aircraft, with a breathing bag which is provided on the entry side with a tube for the oxygen supply, wherein the tube and the breathing bag consist of polyurethane. The invention further relates to a breathing bag, with which a flow indicator is integrated into the connection piece.