Reusable Cannula Face Mask With Swivel Shield for Oxygen Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oxygen delivery systems with cannulas face issues such as oxygen leakage, restricted flow, and inconsistent fit when combined with masks, leading to discomfort and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A reusable face mask system with embedded receptacles for nasal O2 cannulas, allowing adjustable fit and filtration without restricting oxygen flow, featuring a swivable shield, cannula support, and a ventilation director to deflect exhalations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a tight-fitting mask (N95) is worn to prevent inhalation of airborne contaminants, then filtration efficiency is improved, but oxygen flow through the cannula is restricted or inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is divided into separate functional zones: a filtration zone with pleated filter material covering the mouth and nose, and an open zone at the nasal area where the cannula passes through. This segmentation allows different regions to serve different purposes - filtration where needed and open flow where the cannula requires oxygen delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask employs different structural properties in different locations: tightly fitted pleated filtration material around the mouth and cheeks for contaminant blocking, while the nasal area features an open configuration with cannula receptacle to maintain oxygen flow. The head straps provide secure anchoring while the filter material is positioned to avoid compressing the cannula tubing.
2Productivity
If a loose-fitting mask is worn to accommodate the O2 cannula, then oxygen flow is maintained, but filtration of small airborne particulates is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mask separates the filtration function (pleated material covering mouth and nose) from the cannula passage area (open nasal zone with receptacle). This allows the mask to maintain loose fit around the cannula for oxygen flow while concentrating filtration material in areas that do not interfere with cannula positioning.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a mask is worn over the O2 cannula to protect from airborne contamination, then filtration is improved, but the fit and comfort of the cannula is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula is positioned and secured in the mask before the mask is worn on the face. The mask includes pre-formed receptacles and channels that are designed to receive and hold the cannula in the correct position, eliminating the need for adjustment after donning the mask.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask features adjustable head straps that can be tightened or loosened to accommodate different users and cannula configurations. The flexible construction allows the mask to adapt to various face shapes while maintaining secure cannula positioning and comfortable wear.
4Reliability
If disposable masks are used to ensure single use and hygiene, then contamination risk is reduced, but the user must reinsert and readjust the cannula each time, which is time-consuming and results in inconsistent fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is designed for reuse with washable construction, allowing it to be removed, cleaned, and reused multiple times. The cannula remains in place during mask removal and can be quickly repositioned in the same receptacles, eliminating the need for complete reinsertion and reducing adjustment time between uses.
Data Source
AI summary
A reusable mask system includes a cannula support assemblage for cannulas with a swivel shield insertable between layers of a mask.