Removable Connectivity Module for Adaptable Respiratory Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing respiratory therapies suffer from issues such as discomfort, non-compliance, high cost, complexity, and inefficiency, particularly in the design of patient interfaces, air circuits, humidifiers, and data management systems, which affect the effectiveness and ease of use for patients with respiratory disorders.
Innovation Solution
The development of a respiratory therapy apparatus with removable connectivity modules and components, including a modular design for patient interfaces, air circuits, and data management systems, aimed at improving comfort, compliance, and ease of use, while allowing for interchangeable connectivity options and enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If respiratory therapy systems use fixed integrated designs for patient interfaces and connectivity modules, then device reliability is maintained, but device complexity increases and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The respiratory therapy system is divided into separate modular components: a main therapy device and removable connectivity modules. Each connectivity module contains specific communication interfaces (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wired connections) that can be independently selected and attached based on patient needs, allowing the system to adapt to different requirements without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The main therapy device incorporates a universal connector interface that can accommodate multiple types of connectivity modules. This universal interface design allows a single base device to support various communication protocols and connectivity options through module attachment, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If respiratory therapy systems use removable connectivity modules, then adaptability improves and device complexity reduces, but reliability may worsen due to connection interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connectivity modules are designed to nest within or attach to the main therapy device housing. This nesting arrangement protects the connection interfaces from environmental factors and physical damage while maintaining easy accessibility for module replacement. The modular nested design ensures secure electrical connections while allowing straightforward module attachment and detachment.
3Ease of operation
If respiratory therapy systems use modular interchangeable components, then ease of operation improves and adaptability increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into standardized modular components with uniform connection interfaces. This segmentation allows different connectivity modules to be manufactured independently using standardized processes, then assembled into the final system. The standardization of interfaces simplifies both manufacturing and user operation, as modules can be produced on separate production lines and quickly assembled.
4Adaptability or versatility
If respiratory therapy systems use fixed patient interfaces, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different patient needs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed design to a dynamic configurable architecture. Patients can adjust their therapy setup by attaching or removing connectivity modules based on their specific needs and circumstances. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the same base device to adapt to varying patient requirements without increasing the fundamental device complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are apparatus, systems and devices for providing modular connectivity to a respiratory therapy device. Certain forms relate to an apparatus for supplying a flow of breathable gas at positive pressure for respiratory therapy comprising a pressure generator in a housing, at least one electrical connector to connect to a connectivity module, and a cavity for receiving the connectivity module. Different forms of connectivity module may be provided. This allows for flexibility of connectivity in a respiratory device while allowing for simple installation and removal of the connectivity module.