Abstract
Human bodies depend on a steady flow of oxygen for the heart and lungs. When a person has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD), a device called an oxygen concentrator can be used to improve quality of life. An oxygen concentrator is an electrically powered device that takes in room air and converts it to an oxygen rich gas mixture suitable for breathing.
Although a few models are battery powered, oxygen concentrators are not easily portable because they are bulky and weigh between 25–50 lbs. In this study, components were identified for re design to reduce the overall weight of the device. For instance, the concentrator casing was identified as its heaviest component. Using finite element analysis, changes in wall thickness and dimensions can be investigated to reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity. By reducing the weight of the casing, the oxygen concentrator will be easier to transport.
Experimental design of a “Snap-on” and standalone single-bed oxygen concentrator for medical applications
