Respiratory Fluid Connector With Face Seal and Self-Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current respiratory pressure therapy devices for treating sleep disorders are limited by comfort, noise, ease of use, size, weight, manufacturability, cost, and reliability issues, particularly due to suboptimal connectors that can lead to unintended connections and reduced patient compliance.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connector system with a compliant face seal and latching mechanism that secures the connection between a respiratory pressure therapy device and a patient interface, preventing unintended connections and ensuring optimal compatibility between device components, thereby enhancing therapy delivery and compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard fluid connector is used for respiratory therapy devices, then compatibility with various components is improved, but the risk of unintended connections and reduced patient compliance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs asymmetric geometry where the first connector has a male configuration and the second connector has a female configuration, preventing unintended connections while ensuring proper component compatibility. The asymmetric design allows only the correct male-female pairing to connect, eliminating the risk of incorrect connections between similar components.
2Reliability
If a secure latching mechanism is implemented in the fluid connector, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the male and female connectors are brought together. The latch member on the first connector automatically interacts with the latch recess on the second connector, providing self-latching functionality that secures the connection without requiring additional manual operations or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If a compliant face seal is used in the connector, then sealing performance is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is constructed from elastomeric material that exhibits compliance and elasticity. This material property allows the seal to deform and conform to the sealing surface, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and misalignments. The elastomeric nature of the seal enables it to maintain effective sealing despite variations in manufacturing precision.
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
The fluid connector system provides improved comfort, reduced noise, increased ease of use, and enhanced patient compliance by ensuring secure and intended connections, addressing the shortcomings of existing connectors and therapy devices.
Implementation Method 1
a seal portion configured to seal against a sealing surface extending around a periphery of a second opening to form a face seal
Data Source
AI summary
A first part of a fluid connector system for delivery of pressurized breathing gas to a patient from a respiratory pressure therapy device. The first part has a connector portion with a first opening for a fluid flow, a sealing surface around a periphery of the first opening, and a retaining portion axially aligned with the sealing surface. The sealing surface is configured to axially receive a seal portion extending around a periphery of a second opening to form a face seal with a second part of the fluid connector system. The retaining portion is configured to be releasably engaged with a retaining portion of the second part of the fluid connector system.