Swivel Cannula Connector With Sensor Port for Untangled Oxygen Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nasal cannulas used for oxygen delivery can cause discomfort due to tangling and twisting, and existing connectors are cumbersome, potentially leading to inaccurate airflow measurement and unsafe detachment in emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A conduit connector with a self-aligning mechanism and quick-connect feature that allows the nasal cannula to rotate relative to the gas delivery hose, featuring a sensor port positioned near the patient's nostrils for accurate airflow measurement and easy attachment/detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the nasal cannula is used for extended periods, then oxygen delivery is maintained, but the tubing becomes tangled or twisted causing patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates a swivel joint that allows dynamic rotation between the nasal cannula and gas delivery hose, preventing tangling and twisting while maintaining continuous oxygen delivery during extended use
2Device complexity
If the sensor probe is placed further from the prongs, then the connector design is simplified, but the airflow measurement accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor probe is integrated within the connector assembly structure, allowing it to be positioned close to the prongs while maintaining a compact overall design. The sensor port is formed within the connector body, enabling the sensor to sample airflow at the source without requiring a separate, bulky positioning mechanism
3Reliability
If a secure connection is used to ensure reliable oxygen delivery, then safety is improved, but the attachment and detachment process becomes time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separable components with independent locking mechanisms. Each component can be quickly engaged or disengaged from its corresponding part, allowing rapid attachment and detachment while maintaining secure connections during use through the locking features
4Ease of manufacture
If the nasal cannula is rigid to maintain structural integrity, then manufacturing is easier, but it cannot rotate to prevent tangling
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates a swivel joint that allows dynamic rotation between the nasal cannula and gas delivery hose, preventing tangling while maintaining continuous oxygen delivery during extended use
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a connector or connector assembly for attaching a nasal cannula with a gas delivery hose includes a sensor port for a sensor probe positioned near an end of a nasal cannula, which can allow the sensor probe to be placed closer to the patient's nostrils than previous connector parts allowed. The connector can be configured to advantageously allow the nasal cannula to rotate relative to the gas delivery hose, thereby allowing a patient or healthcare provider to untangle or otherwise straighten the hose or the cannula. The connector assembly can be configured to automatically align locking protrusions on a first component with locking recesses on a second component, where insertion of the second component within the first component causes the second component to rotate relative to the first component, thereby aligning the locking protrusions with associated locking recesses.