Respiratory Gas Path Switching for Multi-Mode Patient Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing respiratory support systems require multiple patient interfaces and conduits for different modes of support, leading to complexity and inefficiency in clinical settings, particularly during transitions between modes such as anaesthetic induction and intubation.
Innovation Solution
A device with dual gas flow paths and a switching mechanism that allows seamless transition between modes of respiratory support, using sensors and a controller to determine interface application and adjust gas flow paths accordingly, reducing the need for multiple conduits and interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple patient interfaces and conduits are used for different modes of respiratory support, then the ability to provide various modes of support is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single patient interface that can operate in multiple modes (high flow non-rebreathing mode and anaesthetic rebreathing mode) by incorporating a switching mechanism that redirects gas flow paths. This universal interface eliminates the need for separate interfaces for different respiratory support modes, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic switching mechanism that can change the configuration of gas flow paths in real-time based on the required mode of respiratory support. The switch allows the system to dynamically transition between high flow mode (where expired gas is vented) and rebreathing mode (where expired gas is recirculated), providing adaptability without requiring multiple static interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple patient interfaces and conduits are used for different modes of respiratory support, then the ability to provide various modes of support is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple connections and disconnections
Solution Approach 1:
By providing a single patient interface that can perform multiple functions through internal switching, the system eliminates the need for clinicians to physically connect and disconnect different interfaces when switching between high flow and rebreathing modes. The switching mechanism is operable from the control system, allowing mode changes without manual intervention at the patient interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages the switching between different respiratory support modes through the configured switching mechanism, reducing the need for manual connection and disconnection actions by the clinician. The interface self-adapts to the required mode through the switching system.
3Device complexity
If a single patient interface is used for multiple modes of respiratory support, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide various modes of support may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The single patient interface incorporates a dynamic switching mechanism that can redirect gas flow paths to provide different modes of respiratory support. The switch enables the interface to function as a high flow non-rebreathing interface or as an anaesthetic rebreathing interface based on the selected mode, thereby maintaining versatility while reducing the number of physical interfaces required.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas flow system is segmented into different pathways that can be selectively activated. The switching mechanism divides the gas flow into separate routes: one for high flow delivery to the patient and another for recirculating expired gas in rebreathing mode. This segmentation allows a single interface to provide multiple functional modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for providing respiratory support to a patient comprises a first gas flow path; a second gas flow path and a first gases port configured to receive gases from either of the first gas flow path and the second gas flow path. The device comprises a switching mechanism operable to switch flow to the first gases port between the first gas flow path and the second gas flow path. Gases from the first gases port are provided to the patient for respiratory support.