Mobile Oxygen Storage Refilling Coupling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile oxygen supply solutions for emergency ventilators face challenges such as time-consuming bottle replacements, residual oxygen waste, and wear on connection technology due to frequent bottle exchanges, particularly in regions where oxygen cylinders may not be readily available.
Innovation Solution
A filling device and method that allows for in-place refilling of mobile oxygen storage tanks within a carrying device, integrated with the emergency vehicle, using a high-pressure capable coupling system with modifiers for volume flow and pressure adjustments to ensure efficient and safe oxygen replenishment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If oxygen cylinders are frequently replaced in carrying devices, then oxygen supply availability is maintained, but time is lost during bottle exchanges and connection technology suffers wear
Solution Approach 1:
The oxygen storage device is designed to refill itself automatically from the mobile oxygen supply when connected via the coupling means, eliminating the need for manual bottle replacement. The system monitors its own oxygen levels and performs self-service refilling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile oxygen supply is pre-positioned in the vehicle and the coupling means is pre-installed in the carrying device, so that refilling can occur immediately when needed without searching for or preparing replacement bottles.
2Reliability
If oxygen cylinders are frequently replaced, then oxygen supply availability is maintained, but connection technology experiences increased wear
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic self-service refilling system eliminates repeated manual connection and disconnection of bottles to the carrying device. The single permanent coupling means remains connected throughout multiple refilling cycles, avoiding wear from frequent attachment/detachment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means maintains a continuous connection between the mobile oxygen supply and the oxygen storage device, allowing multiple refilling operations without disconnecting. This continuous connection prevents wear that would result from repeated making and breaking of connections.
3Quantity of substance
If high-pressure oxygen storage is used, then oxygen density and transport efficiency are improved, but filling requires high-pressure capability and safety measures
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means is designed with multi-functionality to handle both mechanical connection and high-pressure gas transfer through a single integrated component. This universal design simplifies the overall system by combining multiple functions that would otherwise require separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means acts as an intermediary component that mediates the high-pressure connection between the mobile oxygen supply and the oxygen storage device. It includes integrated safety features that manage the high-pressure interface without requiring complex external safety systems.
4Reliability
If residual oxygen remains in cylinders, then mobile supply during operations is ensured, but oxygen waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous connection and automated refilling system allows for complete oxygen transfer from the mobile supply to the storage device. The system can refill until the storage device reaches its maximum capacity, minimizing residual oxygen waste while maintaining supply availability.
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
This solution reduces the need for frequent bottle changes, minimizes residual oxygen waste, and extends the service life of connection technology by enabling on-site refilling and maintaining operational safety during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure equalization valve for equalizing a pressure between the oxygen storage device and the filling device
Implementation Method 2
designed to be capable of withstanding a high pressure and to enable a transfer of the oxygen gas at the high pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a filling device for mobile oxygen storage devices, comprising at least one mobile oxygen supply for vehicles and at least one coupling means for establishing an operative connection between the filling device and an oxygen storage device for a carrying device, wherein the coupling means at least temporarily supports an operative connection for supplying oxygen to the oxygen storage device and mechanically supporting the carrying device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for filling at least one oxygen storage device of a carrying device by the filling device for mobile oxygen storage devices, comprising steps a.Establishing an operative connection between the at least one oxygen storage device of the carrying device and the at least one oxygen storage device of the mobile oxygen supply, such that oxygen gas can flow between the oxygen storage device of the filling device and the oxygen storage device of the carrying device through an oxygen gas supply line, wherein b. depending on the filling level of the at least one oxygen storage device of the carrying device and/or a pressure gradient situation between the oxygen storage devices, a first and/or a second bypass line to the oxygen gas supply line can optionally be connected in parallel.