3D-Printed Oxygen Splitter Challenge

grabcad

This design takes into consideration the limitations presented by FDM printing methods. The final print will not require post-processing. Any imperfections from the FDM process will be broken in by putting the assembly together. No support material is required when parts are printed in an upright orientation as shown in the attached photo. The assumption is that no gasket material will be available on site. Therefore, the model is designed to restrict oxygen escape through the use of two built-in contact bands. This being the area where pressure drop occurs, should in theory enable oxygen flow to take the path of least resistance which is via the throttle outlet towards the cannula feed line. Rather than using barbed fittings, oxygen tubing inserts into the inlet and outlet ports. When fully tightened, the throttle will allow the minimum amount of flow it is intended for. Each 1/5 turn CCW increases the flow by a predetermined volumetric step. For this design to be fully tuned and functional, it will be necessary to establish a standard operating pressure at the splitter inlet. Then the metering feature dimensions can be finalized to obtain the precise flowrate steps.