1. Visual and Safety Aspects of Oxygen Concentrator Machines
Vitoria Petrere1, Larry Adigun2, Dr. Valerie Speredelozzi3
Science & Engineering Fellows, Department of Mechanical, Industrial & Systems Engineering, University of Rhode Island
Perfecto
Model
Platinum Model
Main Solution
•Design a mold to test plastic thermoforming
•Design a plastic injection molding process to
mass produce
•Test prototypes at RIALA facilities
Cost
• Costs for a prototype for the cover of the knob
• Costs for a redesign for future units
• Cost for different types of knobs
• Cost for the stickers
Make a cover for the knob in order to prevent accidental tampering
from other residents and children.
Main Problem
• Rhode Island Assisted Living Association (RIALA) has come to
us with a concern about their Oxygen Concentrator Machines,
mainly regarding the safety of the flowmeter and knob
• Oxygen Concentrator Machines is a device which concentrates
the oxygen from a gas supply to supply an oxygen enriched gas
mixture.
Visual Solution
Tactile Solution
Bigger knob for easier use for the Elderly
D-shaft
• How did your company select colors for the flow meter and
the ball inside?
• What is the ball inside of the flow meter made of?
• Were there other choices for the knobs on the flow meter?
• When will next concentrator be redesigned?
• How much control do they have on flowmeter design?
Questions for Manufacturer?
Finding / Discussion Future work
Enclosure (Cover)
Results /Conclusion
We accomplished the main basis of our research project , which was to make an enclosure to fit over the knob of the
oxygen concentrator machine. We have yet to test our cover, but plan to on both models of Invacare machines. Our
research is still ongoing as there are more models and we look to contact the company to possibly make this a permanent
feature on their models presently or in the future.