Resilient Nozzle Element for Inhalation Therapy Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inhalation therapy devices with nozzle nebulizers face challenges in easy and damage-free cleaning due to the sensitive geometry of the nozzle, which can lead to modifications in the aerosol droplet spectrum and reduced effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The nozzle element is designed with a two-part structure, where the first part is made of a more resilient material, such as silicone rubber or thermoplastic elastomer, allowing for reversible deformation during cleaning to maintain the original geometry and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the nozzle is cleaned mechanically using brushes or cloths to remove tightly adhering particles, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the risk of damaging the sensitive geometry of the nozzle edges increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into a replaceable first part (with the critical edges and aperture) and a second part (the body). This segmentation allows the first part to be easily detached and replaced without affecting the main nozzle body, enabling thorough cleaning of the second part while protecting the sensitive first part from mechanical damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The first part of the nozzle, containing the sensitive edges and aperture, is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component. When this part becomes damaged or contaminated beyond cleaning, it can be replaced without replacing the entire nozzle, maintaining therapy effectiveness while avoiding the need for aggressive cleaning of the sensitive part.
2Ease of operation
If the nozzle is dismantled to allow cleaning of the aerosol generator, then accessibility for cleaning is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into a first part and a second part that can be easily separated from each other. This segmentation provides accessibility for cleaning the second part and the aerosol generator while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that does not require complex dismantling procedures.
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 design enables easy and reliable cleaning of the nozzle without damaging the sensitive geometry, ensuring a consistent aerosol droplet spectrum and maintaining the effectiveness of the inhalation therapy device.
Implementation Method 1
the first part of the nozzle element being made of a more resilient material than the second part of the nozzle element, and the first part of the nozzle element being attached to the second part of the nozzle element
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an inhalation therapy device with a nozzle nebuliser, in particular with a nozzle nebuliser having a nozzle element which is easy to clean and is thereby simple and reliable to handle so that the nozzle is not damaged and the geometry of the nozzle is not affected during cleaning. The aerosol generator comprises a nozzle element, said nozzle consisting of at least a first part and a second part, said first part of the nozzle element being made of a more resilient material than said second part of the nozzle element, and said first part of the nozzle element being attached to said second part of the nozzle element. Owing to the resilient material, the nozzle can deform during cleaning and can return to the original shape without altering its initial geometry.