Multi-Port Respiratory Connector With Quick-Lock Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multiple tube connectors often require time-consuming threaded fasteners, which can become cross-threaded or improperly connected, leading to inconsistent gas-tight or liquid-tight seals and potential breakage due to plastic materials.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port connector with a receiver disk and barbed conduits forming a friction-interference fit, allowing for quick alignment and secure connection, using metallic materials like stainless steel for durability and a pivotable mechanism with lock tabs for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used to connect coupling parts, then a secure connection can be achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate coupling parts (first coupling part and second coupling part) that can be independently assembled and then quickly connected together without threaded fasteners, reducing connection time while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a dynamic quick-connect mechanism that allows for rapid engagement and disengagement of coupling parts through simple linear motion rather than time-consuming threading operations
2Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used to connect coupling parts, then a secure connection can be achieved, but the operation becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling parts feature asymmetric geometries with complementary shapes that guide proper alignment during connection, preventing cross-threading errors and ensuring correct tube pairing through self-aligning features
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning features and default positioning mechanisms that automatically ensure correct orientation and pairing of tubes during connection, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures
3Ease of manufacture
If plastic materials are used for multiple tube connectors, then ease of manufacture can be improved, but the device becomes prone to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs composite construction combining plastic components for the coupling parts with metallic elements (such as stainless steel tubes and fastening features) to achieve both ease of manufacture and high strength/durability resistance to breakage
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 solution enables rapid and secure interconnection of multiple tubes with a reliable gas-tight or liquid-tight seal, resisting high pull forces and minimizing the risk of breakage, while ensuring correct tube alignment and easy disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of barbed conduits including a retainer section with a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter so that each barbed conduit forms a friction-interference fit between the receiver disk and each retainer section
Data Source
AI summary
A respiratory therapy device includes a respiratory control unit, a respiratory circuit, and a multi-port connector. The respiratory control unit is configured to provide at least one respiratory therapy for a user. The respiratory circuit is coupled to the respiratory control unit to deliver the respiratory therapy to the user. The multi-port connector interconnects the respiratory circuit to the respiratory control unit.