Snap-Fit Patient Interface Connector for Secure Oxygen Tubing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional oxygen delivery masks often experience misconnection and loose connections with medical tubing, posing risks of disconnection during use, which can lead to insecure oxygen supply.
Innovation Solution
A patient interface connector system featuring a snap-fit connection between the patient interface and a conduit, utilizing resilient deformable components to ensure a non-releasable connection that cannot be undone by normal forces, providing a secure and safe connection without causing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a friction fit connection is used to connect the oxygen delivery mask to the oxygen supply, then the connection is simple to make, but the connection is loose and may disconnect during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a resiliently deformable portion that dynamically changes shape during connection and use. The deformable section flexes to allow insertion while maintaining a secure engaged state, transitioning from a static friction fit to a dynamic mechanical lock that prevents disconnection during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector changes its physical parameters (shape, volume) through the resiliently deformable portion. When inserted, the deformable section compresses or expands to engage with the patient interface, creating a mechanical interlock that fundamentally changes the connection mechanism from simple friction to a structured engagement system.
2Reliability
If a secure connection mechanism is used to prevent disconnection, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid body portion for structural support and connection to the oxygen supply, and a resiliently deformable portion for engagement with the patient interface. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently without unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design uses simple, easily manufacturable materials and structures. The resiliently deformable portion can be made from standard elastomeric materials that are inexpensive to produce, allowing for cost-effective implementation of a secure connection mechanism without requiring complex components.
3Reliability
If a non-releasable connection is used to prevent misconnection, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of reconnection and component safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The resiliently deformable portion provides a dynamic connection that is secure during normal use but can be easily released when needed. The same elasticity that provides connection security also enables simple disengagement by applying gentle pressure, allowing for safe reconnection without damaging components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows users to safely disconnect and reconnect the device themselves without requiring special tools or procedures. The resilient portion naturally returns to its original shape after engagement, providing visual and tactile feedback that confirms proper connection while allowing easy reconnection if needed.
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 snap-fit connection provides a secure and reliable oxygen supply, reducing the risk of misconnection and disconnection, while being safer and more cost-effective than traditional connections, allowing for easy reconnection without damaging components.
Implementation Method 1
The connector comprises a resiliently deformable portion which, in use, engages the patient interface
Data Source
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AI summary
A patient interface assembly comprising a patient interface, a connector for connecting the patient interface to a conduit, and a conduit joined to the connector in a non-releasable manner. The patient interface comprises a first connection formation and the connector comprises a second connection formation, the patient interface and the connector being connectable such that, in a connected configuration, the first connection formation and the second connection formation are engageable with each other, with a snap fit, to provide a non-releasable connection.