Wearable apparatus exhibiting anisotropic mechanical stiffness for supporting soft tissue

Abstract

An apparatus for placement against a body surface includes an outer layer with outer rigid members; an inner layer with inner rigid members; and a compliant layer bonded to one or more of the inner rigid members and one or more of the outer rigid members. The compliant layer maintains a separation between the inner layer and the outer layer, and the compliant layer comprises an incompressible material such that the compliant layer has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction. The compliant layer thereby accommodates in-plane movement of the plurality of outer and inner rigid members while resisting buckling of the apparatus in a thickness direction. An interface layer may be provided to facilitate temporary attachment of the apparatus to the body surface.

Description

WEARABLE APPARATUS FOR APPLICATION TO A BODY SURFACETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wearable apparatus, and in particular to a wearable apparatus that exhibits directionally different mechanical stiffnesses when placed against a body surface.BACKGROUND

[0002] During sleep, rest, or other periods of reduced activity, the position and mechanical behaviour of soft tissues in regions such as the neck, upper airway, chest, and abdomen can influence airflow, breathing mechanics, comfort, and overall rest experience. Changes in body posture, muscle tone, and external loading may affect the geometry and motion of internal anatomical structures and surrounding tissues, potentially leading to increased airflow resistance, vibration of soft tissue, or altered breathing dynamics.

[0003] Various approaches have been developed to influence airflow or tissue behaviour in the body, including devices that apply positive pressure to internal airways, as well as external structures that interact mechanically with the body surface. Such approaches can vary significantly in complexity, form factor, and user experience. While certain existing solutions are designed for clinical or therapeutic contexts, many users seek non-invasive, wearable solutions that can improve comfort, reduce perceived breathing effort, or enhance rest quality without reliance on bulky equipment, continuous airflow generation, powered components, or rigid enclosures.

[0004] Accordingly, there remains interest in wearable apparatuses that interact mechanically with the body surface to influence soft tissue behaviour in a distributed and controlled manner across regions such as the neck, thorax, or abdomen, while prioritizing comfort, wearability, ease of use, and suitability for repeated or extended periods of use during sleep, rest, or other low-activity conditions.SUMMARY

[0005] According to a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising: an outer layer comprising a plurality of outer rigid members; an inner layer comprising a plurality of inner rigid members; and a compliant layer bonded to the pluralityof inner rigid members and the plurality of outer rigid members, wherein the compliant layer maintains a separation between the inner layer and the outer layer. In one embodiment, the compliant layer is substantially incompressible and exhibits lower stiffness for in-plane deformation than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction such that the compliant layer accommodates in-plane movement of the plurality of outer and inner rigid members while resisting buckling of the apparatus in a thickness direction. In another embodiment, the compliant layer comprises an incompressible material such that the compliant layer has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the compliant layer to accommodate in-plane movement of the plurality of outer and inner rigid members while resisting buckling of the apparatus in the thickness direction.

[0006] In some embodiments, the plurality of inner rigid members and the plurality of outer rigid members may be arranged parallel to each other.

[0007] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may be a continuous sheet extending across substantially an entire area between the inner and outer layers.

[0008] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may comprise a plurality of compliant connectors separated from one another, one or more of the compliant connectors exhibiting lower stiffness for in-plane deformation than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of compliant connectors may have a span that is three to six times greater than a thickness of the compliant connector.

[0010] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of compliant connectors may be bonded to adjacent ones of the plurality of inner rigid members on one side of the compliant connector and to adjacent ones of the plurality of outer rigid members on another side of the compliant connector.

[0011] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise an interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the inner layer, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface.

[0012] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may comprise an elastomeric material.

[0013] In some embodiments, the plurality of inner rigid members may comprise an array of inner plates spaced apart from each other and the plurality of outer rigid members comprise an array of outer plates spaced apart from each other.

[0014] In some embodiments, the array of inner plates may be arranged in a staggered pattern relative to the array of outer plates.

[0015] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may be bonded to the plurality of inner members and the plurality of outer rigid members by adhesive, molding, or thermal bonding.

[0016] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may be formed by a material having a Poisson ratio of at least 0.45.

[0017] In some embodiments, the apparatus may be shaped as a band for placement around a neck.

[0018] According to a second aspect, there is provided an apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising: a composite member comprising: a spiral structure comprising a first spiral element and a second spiral element; and a compliant layer bonded to the first spiral element and the second spiral element, wherein the compliant layer maintains a separation between the first spiral element and the second spiral element. In one embodiment, the compliant layer is substantially incompressible and exhibits lower stiffness for in-plane deformation than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction such that the compliant layer accommodates in-plane movement of the first and second spiral elements while resisting buckling of the composite member in a thickness direction. In another embodiment, the compliant layer comprises an incompressible material such that the compliant layer has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the compliant layer to accommodate in-plane movement of the first and second spiral elements while resisting buckling of the composite member in a thickness direction.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first spiral element and the second spiral element may be wound in opposite directions about a central region of the composite member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the compliant layer may comprise an elastomeric material.

[0021] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise an interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the composite member, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface.

[0022] In some embodiments, the composite member may be dome-shaped, and the spiral structure and the compliant layer may together define a curved shape of the dome-shaped composite member when in an unloaded state.

[0023] According to a third aspect, there is provided an apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising: a corrugated member formed from a single sheet of material and comprising a plurality of ridges and valleys extending across the sheet and a plurality of openings formed through the sheet, the corrugated member being arced to define a domed shape in an unloaded state; and an interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the corrugated member, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface. In one embodiment, the corrugated member exhibits lower stiffness for in-plane deformation than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction such that the corrugated member accommodates in-plane movement of the ridges and valleys while resisting buckling of the corrugated member in a thickness direction. In another embodiment, the corrugated member has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the corrugated member to accommodate in-plane movement of the ridges and valleys while resisting buckling of the corrugated member in a thickness direction.

[0024] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus for placement around a body region, comprising: a plurality of interconnected sections forming a perimeter-adjustable structure, wherein each of the plurality of interconnected sections comprises: a first end defining a receiving structure comprising at least two outer rigid fingers separated by a receiving space; and a second end defining an inner rigid finger configured to be received within the receiving space of an adjacent section; wherein adjacent sections of the plurality of interconnected sections are mechanically coupled by one or more compliant connectors bonded between the inner rigid fingerof one section and the receiving structure of another section. In one embodiment, the one or more compliant connectors are substantially incompressible and exhibit lower stiffness for tangential deformation along a perimeter of the perimeter-adjustable structure than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction such that the one or more compliant connectors accommodate tangential movement of the plurality of interconnected sections while resisting buckling of the apparatus in a thickness direction. In another embodiment, the one or more compliant connectors comprise an incompressible material such that the one or more compliant connectors have lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the one or more compliant connectors to accommodate tangential movement of the plurality of interconnected sections while resisting buckling of the apparatus in a thickness direction.

[0025] In some embodiments, the one or more compliant connectors may be bonded to opposed faces of the inner rigid finger and inward-facing surfaces of the outer rigid fingers.

[0026] In some embodiments, the one or more compliant connectors may comprise an elastomeric material.

[0027] In some embodiments, the perimeter-adjustable structure may be configured to change in perimeter by shear deformation of the one or more compliant connectors.

[0028] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise one or more tensile elements coupled to the plurality of interconnected sections and configured to apply a tangential force to change the perimeter of the perimeter-adjustable structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, the one or more tensile elements may be driven by an actuator including at least one of: an electric motor, a linear electromagnetic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a shape-memory actuator.

[0030] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise an interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body region.

[0031] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided use of the apparatus described herein to provide mechanical support to soft tissue corresponding to a body part of an individual.

[0032] In some embodiments, the body part may be a neck of the individual and the use of the apparatus may maintain or increase a cross-sectional dimension of an airway of the individual.

[0033] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided providing mechanical support to soft tissue of an individual, the method comprising: configuring the apparatus described herein in a contracted state; adhering the apparatus around a body part of the individual that comprises the soft tissue while the apparatus is in the contracted state; and transitioning the apparatus from the contracted state to an expanded state while the apparatus is adhered around the body part.

[0034] In some embodiments, the body part may be the neck of the individual and wherein the transitioning of the apparatus from the contracted state to the expanded state treats a sleep-related disorder of the individual.

[0035] This summary does not necessarily describe the entire scope of all aspects. Other aspects, features and advantages will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0036] In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one or more example embodiments:

[0037] FIG. 1 A depicts a side view of a composite member of a wearable apparatus in an undistorted configuration, according to an example embodiment.

[0038] FIG. IB depicts a side view of the composite member of FIG. 1 A under loading in a thickness direction.

[0039] FIG. 1C depicts a side view of the composite member of FIG. 1 A under loading in an in-plane direction.

[0040] FIG. 2A depicts a cross-sectional view of a neck-surrounding wearable apparatus applied to soft tissue around a user’s neck, according to an example embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view of the wearable apparatus of FIG. 2 A in an expanded state.

[0042] FIG. 3A depicts a perspective view of a composite member comprising linearly aligned rigid members and compliant connectors, according to an example embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of a composite member comprising non-linearly aligned rigid members and compliant connectors, according to an example embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 4 depicts a side view of a composite member including a compliant layer implemented as a continuous sheet, according to an example embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 5A depicts a perspective view of a composite member including a compliant layer implemented as a continuous sheet and comprising linearly aligned rigid members, according to an example embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 5B depicts a perspective view of a composite member including a compliant layer implemented as a continuous sheet and comprising non-linearly aligned rigid members, according to an example embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 6 depicts a sequence for preparing, applying, and operating a wearable apparatus, according to an example embodiment.

[0048] FIGS. 7A-7C depict a sequence for placing and operating the wearable apparatus beneath a user’s mandible, according to an example embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 8A depicts a cross-sectional view of a dome-shaped composite member in an undistorted configuration, according to an example embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 8B depicts a cross-sectional view of the dome-shaped composite member of FIG. 8A in a flattened configuration.

[0051] FIG. 9A depicts a plan view of a spiral reinforcement structure, according to an example embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 9B depicts a side view of the spiral reinforcement structure of FIG. 9A.

[0053] FIG. 9C depicts a perspective view of a spiral element integrated with a compliant layer, according to an example embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 10A depicts a plan view of a spiral reinforcement structure including discrete elastomeric regions, according to an example embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 10B depicts a side view of the spiral reinforcement structure of FIG. 10 A.

[0056] FIG. 11 depicts a plan view of an anatomical placement of the wearable apparatus relative to a user’s mandible, according to an example embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 12 depicts a plan view of a corrugated member, according to an example embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 13A depicts a cross-sectional view of the corrugated member of FIG. 12 in a curved, as-fabricated configuration.

[0059] FIG. 13B depicts a cross-sectional view of the corrugated member of FIG. 12 in a flattened configuration.

[0060] FIG. 13C depicts an oblique cross-sectional view of the corrugated member of FIG.12 in the flattened configuration, taken along an oblique plane.

[0061] FIGS. 14A-14C depict a sequence of placement and operation of a wearable apparatus including the corrugated member of FIG. 12 adjacent to soft tissue beneath a user’s mandible.

[0062] FIG. 15A depicts two interconnected sections of a perimeter-adjustable structure, according to an example embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 15B depicts the interconnected sections of FIG. 15A under loading in a thickness direction.

[0064] FIG. 15C depicts the interconnected sections of FIG. 15A under loading in a tangential direction along a perimeter of the structure.

[0065] FIG. 16A depicts a perimeter-adjustable structure formed from multiple interconnected sections in a contracted configuration, according to an example embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 16B depicts the perimeter-adjustable structure of FIG. 16A in a recovered configuration.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] The human body includes multiple anatomical regions in which the mechanical behaviour of soft tissues can influence internal physiological function. For example, the upper airway comprises a series of interconnected anatomical regions extending from the oral and nasal cavities through the pharynx and toward the trachea. These regions are surrounded by soft tissue structures, including muscle, connective tissue, and fatty tissue, which collectively define the airway lumen. Unlike lower portions of the respiratory tract, the upper airway lacks rigid skeletal support and is therefore susceptible to changes in shape and cross-sectional area in response to variations in muscle tone and external or internal forces.

[0068] In addition to the upper airway, regions of the thorax and abdomen also include soft tissues that can influence respiratory mechanics. Movement of the chest wall and abdominal wall contributes to changes in lung volume during breathing, and external forces applied to these regions may affect the expansion or contraction of the respiratory system. The mechanical interaction between soft tissues, skeletal structures, and external loads can therefore influence breathing dynamics, comfort, and perceived respiratory effort.

[0069] From a biomechanical perspective, the geometry of internal anatomical structures may be influenced by pressure differentials acting on the surrounding soft tissues. While positive pressure applied within the airway can act to expand the airway lumen, externally applied negative pressure to tissues adjacent to the airway, thorax, or abdomen may similarly influence tissuedisplacement and internal geometry. Such negative pressure effects may act over a distributed area of soft tissue rather than being localized to a single anatomical feature.

[0070] The application of externally induced negative pressure to regions of the body surrounding internal anatomical structures can accordingly act as a potential mechanism for influencing tissue position, organ geometry, or respiratory mechanics. The effectiveness of such an approach may be influenced by one or more factors, such as the magnitude or distribution of applied forces, the mechanical properties of surrounding tissues, or the manner in which an external structure interacts with the body surface over time. As used herein, a “negative pressure” or a “negative pressure-like effect” does not require a sealed volume or vacuum source, but may instead arise from elastic recovery of the apparatus applying distributed traction forces to the body surface through adhesive coupling, producing tissue displacement functionally analogous to externally applied negative pressure.

[0071] Various mechanical and wearable approaches have been developed for interacting with the human body during sleep, rest, or other extended periods of wear. Such approaches may include devices that apply forces, constraints, or pressure to regions of the body adjacent to internal anatomical structures. Existing solutions may rely on rigid housings, pressurized fluids or gases, active mechanical components, or externally powered systems to influence tissue behaviour. While such approaches may be effective in certain contexts, they may involve trade-offs related to size, weight, complexity, noise, comfort, or long-term wearability.

[0072] Other approaches employ externally applied wearable structures intended to conform to the body surface while providing some degree of mechanical support or constraint. These structures may include flexible materials, articulated components, or combinations of rigid and compliant elements. However, many such structures are formed from materials or configurations that exhibit largely isotropic mechanical behaviour, such that flexibility in one direction is accompanied by comparable flexibility in other directions. As a result, it can be difficult for such structures to simultaneously accommodate body-surface motion while resisting buckling in other loading directions. In the context of the present disclosure, “buckling” refers to a loss of structural stability that can occur when a structure subjected to compressive loading undergoes out-of-plane bending, folding, or collapse, rather than maintaining its intended load-bearing configuration. Such buckling may reduce the ability of a wearable structure to apply controlled mechanical support to underlying soft tissue.

[0073] In view of the foregoing, there exists a technical challenge in designing wearable apparatuses that can conform to a body surface and accommodate movement along that surface, while also providing resistance to buckling in a direction normal to the body surface. This challenge is relevant for wearable devices intended to operate without active control systems, external power sources, or pressurized fluids, and that are intended to be lightweight, unobtrusive, and suitable for extended periods of wear.

[0074] The present disclosure provides approaches for addressing such technical challenges through structural design rather than through active actuation or material bulk. In particular, by configuring wearable structures to exhibit directionally different mechanical stiffness, it is possible to decouple deformation behaviour in directions parallel to a body surface from deformation behaviour in a thickness direction. Such directionally dependent mechanical response may be achieved through various embodiments, which will be explained in the following, allowing the overall apparatus to accommodate in-plane movement while maintaining resistance to out-of-plane buckling.

[0075] FIGS. 1A to 1C illustrate an example of a composite member 100, which may be used as part of the wearable apparatus, that exhibits directionally dependent mechanical behaviour. As shown, the composite member 100 includes an outer layer 110 comprising a plurality of outer rigid members 112, an inner layer 120 comprising a plurality of inner rigid members 122, and a compliant layer 130 disposed between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120. In the illustrated configuration, the compliant layer 130 comprises a plurality of compliant connectors 132 that are bonded to adjacent outer rigid members 112 and adjacent inner rigid members 122. The compliant connectors 132 maintain a separation between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120 and mechanically interconnect the rigid members while permitting relative movement between them.

[0076] FIG. 1A illustrates the composite member 100 in an undistorted configuration. In this state, the outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122 are arranged in a generally linear alignment, in which the inner rigid members 122 comprise an array of inner plates alignedend-to-end and spaced apart from each other, and the outer rigid members 112 comprise an array of outer plates aligned end-to-end and spaced apart from each other. The compliant connectors 132 maintain a substantially uniform separation between the outer and inner layers 110, 120, thereby maintaining a separation between the layers. Although the composite member 100 is depicted as generally flat in FIG. 1A for clarity of illustration, it will be understood that the composite member 100 may alternatively be provided with an initial curvature, arced profile, or other non-planar shape depending on the intended application.

[0077] FIGS. IB and 1C illustrate the response of the composite member 100 to different loading directions. In FIG. IB, the composite member 100 is subjected to one or more forces applied in a direction generally normal to the plane of the composite member 100, as indicated by arrows acting toward the outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122. Under such loading, the outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122 tend to rotate slightly relative to one another, while the compliant connectors 132 resist compression in a thickness direction due to their substantial incompressibility. As a result, deformation of the composite member 100 occurs mainly through limited bending of a series of rigid members rather than through a reduction in the separation maintained by the compliant connectors 132. This loading condition illustrates the relatively higher effective stiffness of the composite member 100 in a direction normal to its surface.

[0078] In FIG. 1C, the composite member 100 is subjected to forces applied in a longitudinal or in-plane direction, as indicated by arrows acting along the plane of the composite member 100. Under such loading, the compliant connectors 132 deform to permit relative displacement between adjacent outer rigid members 112 and adjacent inner rigid members 122. This deformation may include shear, stretching, orbending of the compliant connectors 132 while maintaining separation between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120. Consequently, the composite member 100 accommodates in-plane movement or extension while remaining comparatively resistant to buckling in the thickness direction.

[0079] In one example embodiment, each compliant connector 132 may have a width extending in both a circumferential direction and an axial direction (for example, a head-to-toe direction when worn on a body) of at least about 1 mm, such as about 5 mm, and up to about 100mm. The compliant connector 132 may have a thickness extending in a radial direction (corresponding to the thickness direction of the composite member 100) of at least about 0.5 mm, such as about 5 mm, and up to about 50 mm. In the illustrated configuration, adjacent rigid members 112, 122 may be separated by a gap having a dimension of about 10 mm in the longitudinal or in-plane direction. These dimensional values are provided by way of example and may be varied depending on the intended application, desired mechanical response, and material selection.

[0080] As illustrated by FIGS. 1 Ato 1C, the composite member 100 exhibits a mechanical response in which stiffness in a direction normal to the surface differs from stiffness in directions parallel to the surface. This behaviour may not be achievable using conventional homogeneous materials, which generally exhibit macroscopically isotropic mechanical properties. In isotropic materials, a reduction in stiffness in one direction is ordinarily accompanied by a corresponding reduction in stiffness in other directions, limiting the ability to independently control deformation behaviour along different axes.

[0081] The composite member 100 exhibits macroscopically non-isotropic mechanical behaviour arising from its structural configuration. In particular, the effective stiffness of the composite member 100 is relatively higher in a direction generally normal to a body-facing surface, enabling resistance to buckling under externally applied pressure, while the effective stiffness in directions generally parallel to the body-facing surface is lower, allowing accommodation of expansion, contraction, or other in-plane movement.

[0082] This directionally dependent mechanical behaviour may be achieved by interconnecting rigid elements 112, 122 using compliant connectors 132 that are bonded to the rigid elements while remaining mechanically soft, as described above. For example, each of the compliant connectors 132 may have a span greater than a thickness of the compliant connector 132, such as three to six times greater than the thickness of the compliant connector 132. In some implementations, the compliant connectors 132 may be formed from elastomeric materials such as silicone elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, gel elastomers, or combinations thereof. Such materials may exhibit a Young’s modulus substantially lower than that of the rigid members while remaining substantially incompressible, such that volumetriccompression is inhibited relative to shear or lateral deformation. For example, the compliant connectors 132 may have a Young’s modulus no more than 10 MPa, while the rigid members have a Young’s modulus greater than 1 GPa, so that the compliant connectors can accommodate applied loads through shear or lateral displacement while the rigid members provide resistance to compressive loading in a thickness direction. As used herein, being “incompressible” or “substantially incompressible” may refer to a condition in which volumetric compression of the compliant connectors is limited to less than about 20%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of an initial volume or thickness, while deformation occurs mainly through shear or lateral displacement. As a result, mechanical response of the composite member 100 may occur predominantly through relative in-plane movement of the rigid members 112, 122 rather than through compression of the compliant connectors 132 in a thickness direction.

[0083] In one example embodiment, each compliant connector 132 may be formed entirely from an elastomeric or gel-like material, such that the compliant connector 132 is substantially elastomeric throughout its volume. In such implementations, the compliant connectors 132 may collectively constitute at least about 5% of a total volume of the composite member 100, such as between about 5% and about 10% of the total volume, with the remainder being formed by the rigid members 112, 122 and any intermediate layers or coatings. The presence of this elastomeric volume fraction may contribute to the substantially incompressible behaviour of the composite member 100 by enabling applied loads to be accommodated primarily through shear or lateral displacement of the compliant connectors 132 rather than through volumetric compression. These volume fractions are provided by way of example and may be adjusted depending on the desired balance between flexibility, stiffness, and resistance to buckling in a thickness direction.

[0084] As used herein, bonding between the compliant connectors 132 and the rigid members 112, 122 may be achieved using a variety of attachment techniques, depending on material selection and manufacturing considerations. Such bonding may include, for example, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, co-molding, overmolding, chemical bonding, or mechanical interlocking formed during fabrication. In some implementations, the compliant connectors 132 may be directly formed onto the rigid members 112, 122, while in other implementations the compliant connectors 132 may be separately formed and subsequently attached. The term“bonded” is therefore intended to encompass any attachment that maintains mechanical coupling between the compliant connectors 132 and the rigid members 112, 122 during deformation of the composite member 100.

[0085] To further illustrate the mechanical behaviour shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, an example may be considered in which the composite member 100 is implemented in the form of a neck-surrounding ring (such as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). This example is provided solely to demonstrate the underlying work principle disclosed herein and does not limit the disclosed structures to cylindrical or ring-shaped geometries.

[0086] FIGS. 2 A and 2B schematically illustrate an example implementation in which a wearable apparatus is configured as a neck-surrounding band and interacts with soft tissue 230 surrounding a user’s neck. In these figures, the wearable apparatus includes an outer layer comprising outer rigid members 112, an inner layer comprising inner rigid members 122, and compliant connectors 132 disposed between and bonded to the rigid members, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 A-1C. The soft tissue 230 represents tissue surrounding an upper airway 250 in the neck region.

[0087] Prior to application, the wearable apparatus may be stored in a holder (not shown) that maintains the apparatus in an open configuration having a perimeter corresponding to, or slightly larger than, a target neck circumference during use. Such a holder may serve as a convenient storage structure and does not participate in the mechanical behaviour of the wearable apparatus during use.

[0088] In some implementations, an interface layer (not shown in FIGS. 2 A and 2B) comprising an adhesive surface may be provided on a body-facing side of the inner layer. The adhesive surface may be selected to provide a level of adhesion sufficient to transfer forces between the wearable apparatus and the skin, while remaining removable and skin-friendly. In some cases, the adhesive strength may be lower than that used in nasal adhesive strips or similar products.

[0089] In one example embodiment, the adhesive surface of the interface layer may be selected to withstand normal forces on the order of at least about 1 kN per m2when coupled to the skin, such that the wearable apparatus remains attached during typical use without requiring excessive localized adhesion. The adhesive may be configured to provide sufficient shear and peel resistance to transmit mechanical forces between the wearable apparatus and the underlying soft tissue while permitting removal without undue discomfort. In some implementations, the adhesive surface may be provided as a single-use adhesive, while in other implementations the adhesive surface may be re-usable over multiple applications. The adhesive materials may be selected to be hypoallergenic, skin-compatible, and compliant with prolonged skin contact, for example by using medical-grade pressure-sensitive adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, or other skin-safe adhesive formulations.

[0090] To apply the wearable apparatus, the apparatus may be placed around the neck and temporarily secured in a closed configuration using a fastening feature such as a zipper, hook-and-loop fastener, or other closure mechanism (not shown). In this initial state, the wearable apparatus may fit loosely around the neck and may not yet be in full contact with the skin.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the wearable apparatus may then be gently pressed toward the neck so that the adhesive surface on the body-facing side of the apparatus adheres to the skin over a distributed area. In this state, the compliant connectors 132 are in a compressed or deformed configuration relative to their relaxed state, and the airway 250 is shown with a comparatively smaller cross-sectional area. FIG. 2A is a conceptual schematic and is not intended to represent exact anatomical proportions or device geometry.

[0092] Over time, the compliant connectors 132 may gradually return toward their initial configuration, for example due to material properties associated with elastomeric or memoryelastomer behaviour. As the compliant connectors 132 recover, the outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122 move relative to one another, resulting in a gradual expansion of the wearable apparatus. Because the interface layer adheres to the skin, this expansion applies outwardly directed forces to the soft tissue 230 surrounding the airway 250 (as described herein, the term “outward” refers to a direction away from the skin to which the apparatus adheres and the term “inward” refers to a direction toward the skin to which the apparatus adheres).

[0093] FIG.2B illustrates a subsequent state in which the wearable apparatus has expanded relative to the configuration shown in FIG. 2A. In this state, the outwardly directed forces applied through the adhesive interface act over a distributed area of the neck, resulting in displacement of the soft tissue 230 and an enlargement of the airway 250 relative to the configuration of FIG. 2A. This effect may be understood as applying a distributed negative pressure to the neck tissue, without requiring a sealed rigid enclosure or active pressurization.

[0094] FIGS. 2 A and 2B are intended to illustrate the general operating principle rather than a specific or limiting geometry. In some implementations, the wearable apparatus may not need to extend fully around the neck, and may be configured to open for application and removal. In addition, variations in size, curvature, or stiffness may be provided to accommodate differences among individual users. In some implementations, the wearable apparatus may be manufactured in multiple sizes, while in other implementations the apparatus may be customized, for example using additive manufacturing techniques.

[0095] For a structure having a generally ring-shaped geometry, resistance to collapse under externally applied negative pressure may be evaluated by comparing the applied pressure to a critical collapse pressure. In the context considered herein, the negative pressure to be resisted may be on the order of normal human breathing pressure, which is approximately 10 cm H2O, corresponding to about 1 kPa.

[0096] The critical collapse pressure pcrfor a ring-shaped structure may be expressed as:where E represents an effective Young’s modulus of the structure in a direction normal to its surface, v represents an effective Poisson’s ratio associated with deformation of the structure, t represents an effective thickness of the structure in the thickness direction, and r represents a characteristic radius of the ring-shaped structure. In composite structures of the type illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 2B, the effective Young’s modulus E may be mainly influenced by the volumefraction, material properties, and spatial arrangement of the rigid members 112, 122 relative to the compliant layer 130.

[0097] Solving the above relationship for the effective Young’s modulus yields:

[0098] In an illustrative application, the collapse pressure may be selected to exceed a negative pressure on the order of normal human breathing, for example approximately 10 cm H2O (about 103Pa). By way of non-limiting illustration, for a neck radius on the order of several centimeters (such as 8 cm) and a structure thickness selected for wearer comfort (such as 4 mm), the ratio (r / t)3may be on the order of several thousand (such as 8,000). Such an estimate suggests that an effective Young’s modulus in the radial direction on the order of tens of megapascals (such as 30 MPa) may be sufficient to resist collapse under these conditions. Given that many polymeric materials exhibit Young’s moduli on the order of 1 GPa, this analysis illustrates that the rigid members 112, 122 may occupy only a portion of the overall structure, such as a ratio on thickness (combined thickness of the rigid members divided by the overall thickness) ranging from 5% to 30%, while still contributing meaningfully to the effective stiffness of the composite member. This discussion is provided for explanatory purposes and does not limit the geometries, materials, or mechanical properties of the structures described herein.

[0099] In the present disclosure, compliant materials may include elastomers and gel-like materials having an elastic (Young’s) modulus, by way of non-limiting example, on the order of about 105to 107Pa. In some implementations, hydrogels may be used as compliant materials, and such hydrogels may exhibit elastic moduli below about 105Pa, for example on the order of about 102Pa. By contrast, rigid members may be formed from relatively stiff materials, such as thermoplastics having elastic moduli on the order of about 108to 1010Pa, or metals having elastic moduli on the order of about 1011Pa. Such differences in modulus may allow the rigid members to contribute meaningfully to an effective stiffness of the composite member even when the rigid members occupy only a portion of the overall thickness.

[0100] In the context of the present disclosure, the Poisson’s ratio v may be associated mainly with the compliant layer 130 or the compliant connectors 132. The compliant layer 130 may comprise elastomeric materials that exhibit Poisson’s ratios approaching 0.5, indicative of near incompressibility. In some examples, the compliant layer 130 or the compliant connectors 132 may exhibit a Poisson’s ratio of at least about 0.45. Such values correspond to a material response in which volumetric compression of the compliant layer is inhibited relative to shear or bending deformation.

[0101] As a result, when incorporated into the composite structures described herein, the compliant layer 130 may exhibit an effective stiffness in one or more in-plane directions that is lower than an effective stiffness through a thickness of the compliant layer, such that applied loads are accommodated primarily by in-plane deformation while resistance to buckling is maintained. The overall mechanical behaviour of the composite member 100 therefore arises from interaction between the compliant layer 130 and the rigid members 112, 122, with the near-incompressible behaviour of the compliant layer 130 and the higher Young’s modulus of the rigid members 112, 122 together contributing to resistance to buckling in a thickness direction. The present disclosure is not limited to a specific Poisson’s ratio value, provided that the resulting composite member exhibits directionally dependent mechanical behaviour consistent with the principles described herein. In some implementations, under operating loads, a change in thickness of the compliant layer may be less than about 20%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of an initial thickness of the compliant layer, while in-plane deformation of the compliant layer is greater than the thickness change.

[0102] FIGS. 3 A and 3B illustrate alternative example arrangements of rigid members 112, 122 and compliant connectors 132 within the composite member 100 described above. In both figures, outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122 are mechanically interconnected by compliant connectors 132, which maintain separation between the rigid members while permitting relative movement.

[0103] In the example shown in FIG. 3 A, the outer rigid members 112, inner rigid members 122, and compliant connectors 132 are distributed in a generally linear arrangement along a longitudinal direction of the composite member 100. In this configuration, successive rigidmembers are positioned along a common axis, with compliant connectors 132 interposed between adjacent rigid members to allow relative displacement along the longitudinal direction while maintaining separation in a thickness direction.

[0104] FIG. 3B illustrates an alternative example in which the outer rigid members 112, inner rigid members 122, and compliant connectors 132 are distributed in a non-linear, such as zig-zag or arc, arrangement along the longitudinal direction. In this configuration, adjacent rigid members are laterally offset relative to one another, while remaining interconnected by compliant connectors 132. Such an arrangement may alter local deformation behaviour or load distribution while preserving the overall directionally dependent mechanical response described above.

[0105] The present disclosure does not limit the composite member 100 to the linear arrangement shown in FIG. 3 A or the non-linear arrangement shown in FIG. 3B. Other distributions, including staggered patterns, curved arrangements, or combinations thereof, may be employed. In addition, multiple rows of rigid members 112, 122 and compliant connectors 132 may be provided in parallel or intersecting arrangements, depending on the desired mechanical response and geometric constraints of a particular application.

[0106] In the illustrated examples, the compliant connectors 132 are dimensioned such that a length of each compliant connector 132 extends primarily along the longitudinal direction of the composite member 100 (the longitudinal length may also be referred to as “span”) and is greater than corresponding dimensions of the compliant connector 132 in a width direction or a thickness direction. As a result of this dimensional relationship, the compliant connectors 132 can be more readily deformable along the longitudinal direction through shear, bending, or elongation, while remaining comparatively resistant to buckling in the thickness direction. This dimensional configuration contributes to the ability of the composite member 100 to accommodate in-plane movement while maintaining separation between the rigid members 112, 122.

[0107] FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative example configuration of a composite member 100 in which the compliant layer 130 is implemented as a continuous sheet 134 extending between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120. In this example, the outer layer 110 comprises a plurality of outer rigid members 112 disposed on a first side of the continuous sheet 134, and the inner layer120 comprises a plurality of inner rigid members 122 disposed on an opposite side of the continuous sheet 134.

[0108] The continuous sheet 134 is bonded to the outer rigid members 112 and the inner rigid members 122 and maintains separation between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120. Unlike the discrete compliant connectors illustrated in FIGS. 1A-3B, the continuous sheet 134 provides a substantially uninterrupted compliant interface across a longitudinal extent of the composite member 100.

[0109] In this configuration, relative movement between adjacent outer rigid members 112 and adjacent inner rigid members 122 may be accommodated through deformation of the continuous sheet 134, including shear or stretching of the continuous sheet 134, while compression of the continuous sheet 134 in a thickness direction is resisted due to its substantial incompressibility. As a result, the composite member 100 may accommodate in-plane movement along a longitudinal direction while maintaining separation between the outer layer 110 and the inner layer 120.

[0110] The configuration shown in FIG. 4 is provided as an alternative to the discrete compliant connector arrangements described with reference to FIGS. 1A-3B. The present disclosure is not limited to either discrete or continuous compliant implementations, and combinations of continuous and discrete compliant regions may also be employed. The choice between discrete compliant connectors and a continuous compliant sheet may be influenced by factors such as manufacturing considerations, desired mechanical response, or geometric constraints of a particular application.[oni] FIGS. 5 A and 5B illustrate further example configurations of the composite member 100 shown in FIG. 4. These figures demonstrate that the present disclosure is not limited to arrangements in which rigid members are provided in directly opposing pairs on opposite sides of a compliant layer.

[0112] In the example shown in FIG. 5 A, the composite member 100 includes a continuous sheet 134 extending along a longitudinal direction, with a plurality of outer rigid members 112disposed on one side of the continuous sheet 134 and a plurality of inner rigid members 122 disposed on an opposite side of the continuous sheet 134. In this configuration, the outer rigid members 112 and the inner rigid members 122 are offset from one another along the longitudinal direction and are bonded to the continuous sheet 134 at different locations, such that the continuous sheet 134 maintains separation between the rigid members while permitting relative movement through deformation of the continuous sheet 134.

[0113] FIG. 5B illustrates an alternative example in which a plurality of outer rigid members 112 are arranged in a non-linear manner and bonded to one side of the continuous sheet 134. While not shown, a number of inner rigid members are provided on the other side of the continuous sheet 134.

[0114] The present disclosure does not limit the composite member 100 to the specific rigid member arrangements shown in FIGS. 5 A and 5B. Rigid members 112, 122 may be distributed on one or both sides of the continuous sheet 134 in aligned, offset, staggered, or otherwise non-uniform patterns. In some implementations, rigid members 112, 122 may be arranged in multiple rows extending along a longitudinal direction of the composite member 100, or in intersecting or curved arrangements, depending on the desired mechanical response, coverage area, or geometric constraints of a particular application.

[0115] In the illustrated examples of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the continuous sheet 134 is dimensioned such that a length of the continuous sheet 134 extends primarily along a longitudinal direction of the composite member 100 and is greater than corresponding dimensions of the continuous sheet 134 in a width direction or a thickness direction. As a result of this dimensional relationship, deformation of the composite member 100 under in-plane loading may be accommodated through shear, bending, or stretching of the continuous sheet 134 along the longitudinal direction, while buckling of the continuous sheet 134 in the thickness direction is comparatively resisted due to its substantial incompressibility. This dimensional and material configuration contributes to the ability of the composite member 100 to accommodate in-plane movement of the rigid members while maintaining separation between the rigid members and preserving structural integrity in a thickness direction.

[0116] FIG. 6 illustrates an example sequence for preparing, applying, and operating a wearable apparatus incorporating the composite member 100 as described herein, shown in a simplified schematic form. The illustrated sequence is intended to convey functional interaction with the body rather than exact geometric proportions.

[0117] In an initial preparation stage (Steps 1-3), the composite member 100 includes outer rigid members 112, inner rigid members 122, and compliant connectors 132 forming a hybrid rigid-elastomeric structure. An interface layer 140 is provided on a body-facing side of the composite member 100, and a sacrificial layer 210 may temporarily cover an adhesive surface of the interface layer 140 prior to use. The sacrificial layer 210 may be removed before application to expose the adhesive surface.

[0118] In Step 4, the composite member 100 is shown in a ready state for application beneath a jaw region. At this stage, the composite member 100 may exhibit a curved or concave shape (or being a ring with a slightly larger diameter than the neck region to be applied) corresponding to its unloaded configuration. The structure may be stored prior to use in a holder that maintains a desired curvature or perimeter size, for example corresponding to a target neck dimension.

[0119] In Steps 5 and 6, the composite member 100 is positioned adjacent to soft tissue 230 beneath the mandible region. The interface layer 140 contacts the skin 220, and the user may apply gentle manual pressure to press the composite member 100 toward the body surface, allowing the adhesive surface to form a detachable bond with the skin. During this application step, the compliant connectors 132 permit relative movement between rigid members 112, 122 so that the composite member 100 can conform to the local body geometry.

[0120] In Step 7, pressure applied by the user is reduced or removed. In Step 8, the composite member 100 tends to return toward its unloaded shape due to its structural configuration, as described in respect of FIGS. 1 A to 5B. Because the interface layer 140 is bonded to the skin 220, this shape recovery produces a displacement of adjacent soft tissue 230. In this manner, the composite member 100 and the interface layer 140 cooperate to apply a distributedeffect to the soft tissue 230, analogous to externally applied negative pressure, without requiring a sealed chamber or active pumping.

[0121] The interface layer 140 may be configured to provide a detachable coupling between the composite member 100 and the skin 220. In some embodiments, the interface layer 140 comprises a skin-contacting adhesive surface selected to form a secure yet removable bond with the skin 220 over a period of use. The adhesive surface may be oriented generally normal to a thickness direction of the composite member 100 (for example within about 80 degrees to about 90 degrees relative to the thickness direction), such that the composite member 100 is coupled to the body surface through a body-facing surface of the apparatus. The adhesive surface may be configured to transmit force between the composite member 100 and the skin corresponding to the adjacent soft tissue 230 during use. The adhesive surface may be provided as a continuous film, as a plurality of discrete adhesive regions or pads, or as a patterned adhesive area distributed across the body-facing side of the composite member 100.

[0122] In some implementations, the adhesive surface may comprise a skin-safe medical adhesive compatible with silicone, elastomeric, or polymeric materials of the composite member 100. By way of non-limiting example, suitable adhesive materials may include prosthetic or medical adhesives such as SkinTite™, Derma-Tac™, Skinister™ medical adhesive, 3M™ doublesided medical adhesive products, Urobond™ V, ostomy adhesives, or other skin-compatible bonding agents formulated to provide temporary adhesion while permitting safe removal from the skin.

[0123] In some embodiments, the adhesive surface may be provided as part of a replaceable or single-use element, for example to support hygiene, maintain consistent adhesive performance, or facilitate repeated use of the composite member 100 with fresh adhesive material. For instance, the interface layer 140 may be mounted to the composite member 100 using mechanical retention features, releasable fastening structures, or removable liners, and may be supplied with a sacrificial layer 210 that is removed prior to application.

[0124] In other embodiments, adhesive functionality may not be integrated as a dedicated interface layer. For example, an adhesive material may be applied to the body-facing side of thecomposite member 100 prior to each use, or alternative attachment means may be employed to provide temporary adhesion or coupling to the body surface. Such alternatives may include pressure-sensitive adhesives, re-applicable gels, glue, surface texturing, electrostatic attraction, or other skin-compatible attachment mechanisms. In some implementations, different attachment mechanisms may be combined to distribute forces over a larger area or to reduce localized stress at the skin interface.

[0125] The present disclosure is not limited to a particular form of adhesive or attachment implementation, provided that the interface enables transfer of mechanical interaction between the composite member 100 and the region of interest during use.

[0126] The sequence shown in FIG. 6 is illustrative. The composite member 100 need not extend fully around a body circumference, and attachment mechanisms such as zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other closures may be used to facilitate placement and removal. Sizing may be individualized or selected from a range of available sizes.

[0127] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate an example embodiment in which the composite member is configured for placement beneath a mandible 240 and interaction with adjacent soft tissue 230. These figures show cross-sectional views depicting different stages of application and deformation.

[0128] In FIG. 7A, the composite member 100 is shown in an initial state adjacent to the underside of the mandible 240. The composite member 100 includes outer rigid members 112 and inner rigid members 122 interconnected by compliant connectors 132. An interface layer 140 is provided on the body-facing side of the composite member 100 for contacting skin 220. In this state, the composite member 100 may exhibit a curved or concave shape (as part of a ring-shaped structure) corresponding to its unloaded configuration.

[0129] FIG. 7B illustrates the composite member 100 after being pressed against the body surface. Manual force applied by the user flattens the composite member 100 against the skin 220, allowing the adhesive surface of the interface layer 140 to form a detachable bond over a distributed contact area. During this flattening step, an external force applied by the usertemporarily alters the overall curvature or diameter of the composite member 100. The compliant connectors 132 permit relative movement between adjacent rigid members 112, 122 during this deformation, such that the composite member 100 can conform to the body surface mainly through in-plane deformation, while substantial compression of the compliant connectors 132 in a thickness direction is prevented.

[0130] FIG. 7C illustrates the composite member 100 after the applied force is released. As the composite member 100 tends to return toward its unloaded shape, the bonded interface layer 140 transfers this motion to the skin 220 and adjacent soft tissue 230. The resulting tissue displacement occurs over a relatively broad area, rather than being localized at discrete attachment points.

[0131] As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C, application of the composite member 100 to the body surface may result in a gentle outward displacement of soft tissue 230 adjacent to the upper airway (not shown in FIGS. 7A-7C) as the composite member 100 returns toward its natural configuration. This displacement may create an externally applied negative-pressure-like effect on the surrounding soft tissue 230, which can increase the cross-sectional area of the airway. An enlarged airway may reduce airflow resistance during breathing and may thereby contribute to improved airflow stability during sleep or other periods of reduced muscle tone.

[0132] FIGS. 8 A and 8B illustrate another embodiment of the wearable apparatus comprising a dome-shaped composite member 300 configured to provide directionally dependent mechanical behaviour using a spiral-based reinforcement architecture. In this embodiment, the dome-shaped composite member 300 includes a compliant layer 130 that interconnects a first spiral element 312 and a second spiral element 314. The spiral elements 312, 314 are arranged on opposite sides of the compliant layer 130 and extend generally along a radial direction when viewed in plan, while collectively defining a curved, dome-like profile in cross-section.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 8A, the dome-shaped composite member 300 is illustrated in a relaxed or unloaded state, in which the compliant layer 130 maintains a curved geometry. The first spiral element 312 and the second spiral element 314 are separated by the compliant layer 130 and may follow complementary curved paths. In this configuration, the compliant layer 130 issubstantially unstressed, and the overall shape of the dome-shaped composite member 300 is defined mainly by the geometric arrangement of the spiral elements 312, 314 rather than by pressurization or external constraint.

[0134] FIG. 8B illustrates the dome-shaped composite member 300 in a flattened configuration during application to a body surface of a soft tissue 230 via an interface layer 140. In this configuration, an externally applied force causes the dome-shaped composite member 300 to be displaced toward a substantially planar condition. Flattening of the dome-shaped composite member 300 reduces the effective surface area available to the compliant layer 130 between adjacent portions of the spiral elements 312, 314. As a result, the compliant layer 130 undergoes deformation primarily through lateral bulging, shear, and stretching, while compression in a thickness direction is resisted due to the near-incompressible nature of the compliant material.

[0135] In this embodiment, elastic energy may be stored mainly within the compliant layer 130 as a consequence of its deformation during flattening. The spiral elements 312, 314 provide geometric constraint and guidance for this deformation, but are not required to serve as the primary source of restoring force. Upon release of the externally applied force, the compliant layer 130 tends to return toward its original configuration, thereby driving the dome-shaped composite member 300 back toward its curved shape. The compliant layer 130 used in this embodiment may be formed from the same or similar materials as those described with respect to the previous embodiments, for example elastomeric or gel-based polymeric materials such as silicone elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, or combinations thereof, selected to exhibit resistance to volumetric compression while permitting shear or lateral deformation during flattening and recovery.

[0136] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the interface layer 140 may be prepared, applied, and operated in a manner similar to that described with reference to FIG. 6. For example, the interface layer 140 may provide a temporary adhesive coupling between the domeshaped composite member 300 and the body surface during application, enabling the dome-shaped composite member 300 to be held in a flattened configuration prior to recovery toward its curved shape. The interface layer 140 may be provided as a disposable layer, may be applied immediately prior to use, or may otherwise be configured to facilitate hygienic attachment and removal,consistent with the application sequence previously described. The same or similar compliant layer and interface layer arrangements and techniques may likewise be employed in connection with the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9A-11.

[0137] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate the spiral reinforcement structure 310 (comprising the first spiral element 312 and the second spiral element 314) in isolation. As shown in FIG. 9A, the first spiral element 312 and the second spiral element 314 are wound in opposite directions and arranged concentrically to define a generally circular footprint. The spiral elements may be formed from metal, polymeric materials, or other materials having sufficient rigidity to maintain their geometric form while permitting controlled bending.

[0138] FIG. 9B illustrates a side elevation view of the spiral reinforcement structure 310, showing that the superposition of the oppositely wound spiral elements defines a three-dimensional, dome-like geometry. This geometry may be selected to approximate but more domed than an anatomical contour, such as the underside of a jaw or chin region, while allowing deformation when external forces are applied.

[0139] FIG. 9C illustrates the second spiral element 314 integrated with the compliant layer 130 to form a dome-shaped composite structure. In the example shown, the compliant layer 130 is implemented as a continuous sheet extending across and through the spiral reinforcement structure, such that the spiral element 314 and the first spiral element 312 (not shown in FIG. 9C) are embedded within or supported by the compliant layer 130 along a substantial portion of its length.

[0140] In one example embodiment, the spiral reinforcement structure 310 may have overall lateral dimensions selected to generally correspond to a size of a target body region, such as a neck or submandibular region of a user. When the dome-shaped composite structure is in an unloaded state and positioned adjacent to the body surface, a clearance or gap may be present between an apex of the spiral reinforcement structure 310 and the skin. This gap may be on the order of about 3 mm, and may range, for example, from about 1 mm to about 10 mm depending on user anatomy, desired preload, and material compliance. Such a clearance may allow the domeshaped structure to deform under applied forces while providing distributed mechanical interactionwith the underlying soft tissue. The specific dimensions are provided by way of example and may be varied to suit different applications and user populations.

[0141] In this configuration, deformation of the composite structure during flattening is accommodated through distributed shear, stretching, and lateral deformation of the compliant layer 130 across the spiral geometry, while compression of the compliant layer 130 in a thickness direction is resisted due to its substantial incompressibility. Although FIG. 9C illustrates a continuous compliant layer, the present disclosure is not limited to this arrangement, and segmented or discontinuous compliant regions may be employed in other implementations to tailor mechanical response or facilitate manufacturing.

[0142] For example, FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate the segmented nature of the compliant layer 130. As shown in FIG. 10A, the compliant layer 130 is provided in a plurality of discrete elastomeric regions arranged radially between adjacent portions of the first spiral element 312 and the second spiral element 314. These regions may be formed by applying elastomeric material in localized strips, islands, or pads, rather than as a continuous sheet.

[0143] The discrete elastomeric regions shown in FIG. 10A allow the number of compliant elements to be relatively small while still spanning a substantial radial extent of the dome-shaped composite member 300. This configuration can facilitate manufacturing and assembly, including automated bonding or deposition processes, while preserving the distributed compliance characteristic of the structure.

[0144] FIG. 10B illustrates a side elevation view of the composite structure of FIG. 10 A, showing the compliant layer 130 in a curved configuration. When the dome-shaped composite member 300 is flattened during application, the elastomeric regions deform laterally and store elastic energy. Upon release, this stored energy drives recovery of the curved shape, thereby producing a net inward displacement of adjacent soft tissue when the dome-shaped composite member 300 is bonded to the body surface.

[0145] In contrast to homogeneous elastomeric structures, such as suction cups, the domeshaped composite member 300 may be flattened with reduced outward shear forces at its perimeter.This behaviour arises because deformation is accommodated primarily by distributed lateral deformation of the compliant layer 130 between rigid spiral elements, rather than by uniform stretching of a continuous elastomeric membrane.

[0146] FIG. 11 illustrates an example anatomical placement of the dome-shaped composite member 300 relative to a mandible 240 of a user. In this example, the dome-shaped composite member 300 is positioned beneath the mandible 240 such that the curved surface of the domeshaped composite member 300 generally follows the contour of the submandibular region. The illustrated outline of the dome-shaped composite member 300 indicates a region of contact or coupling between the wearable apparatus and soft tissue adjacent the underside of the jaw.

[0147] When positioned as shown, the dome-shaped composite member 300 may be attached to the submandibular soft tissue via an interface layer (not shown in FIG. 11), such that recovery of the dome-shaped composite member 300 from a temporarily flattened configuration toward its curved configuration results in a outward displacement of the adjacent soft tissue. This displacement may increase spacing within the upper airway region located posterior to the mandible 240, for example by reducing inward collapse or encroachment of soft tissue during breathing.

[0148] FIG. 11 is provided as a conceptual illustration of one possible placement and is not intended to imply a precise anatomical fit, coverage area, or orientation. The dome-shaped composite member 300 may be configured to extend partially or fully beneath the mandible 240, and may be shaped or sized to accommodate anatomical variation between users.

[0149] By enabling controlled tissue displacement through mechanical recovery of a preshaped composite structure, the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 8 A to 11 provides a non-invasive approach for mechanically influencing airway geometry using passive structural mechanics. The resulting effect may be achieved without requiring rigid enclosures, sealed pressure chambers, or active vacuum generation, and may be compatible with lightweight, wearable configurations.

[0150] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a corrugated member 400 forming part of a further embodiment of the wearable apparatus. In this configuration, the corrugated member 400 isimplemented as a dome-shaped sheet that has been patterned to include a plurality of concentric ridges 410 and valleys 420 extending around a central region. The ridges 410 and valleys 420 collectively define a corrugated geometry that imparts directionally dependent mechanical behaviour to the sheet.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 12, the corrugated member 400 further includes a plurality of openings 430 distributed circumferentially and radially across the sheet. The openings 430 interrupt the continuity of the ridges 410 and valleys 420 and permit localized relative movement between adjacent regions of the corrugated member 400. This arrangement enables the corrugated member 400 to flex and deform laterally in a controlled manner when subjected to externally applied forces, while maintaining sufficient stiffness to oppose or limit collapse under negative pressure.

[0152] The corrugated member 400 may be formed from a non-elastomeric polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic sheet, that is substantially stiffer than the compliant materials described in earlier embodiments. In some implementations, the corrugated member may be formed from sheet materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, or other thermoplastic polymers suitable for forming thin, corrugated structures that retain flexural stiffness. The corrugations and openings therefore provide geometric compliance, rather than material compliance, allowing the corrugated member 400 to undergo complex flexural deformation while remaining relatively resistant to volumetric compression.

[0153] FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate cross-sectional views of the corrugated member 400 in different states. FIG. 13 A shows the corrugated member 400 in a curved or dome-shaped configuration corresponding to a relaxed or as-fabricated state. In this configuration, the ridges 410 and valleys 420 collectively define a domed profile that may conform generally to but more domed than the underside of a user’s mandible.

[0154] FIG. 13B illustrates the corrugated member 400 in a substantially flattened configuration, such as during application to a body surface. In this state, deformation is accommodated mainly through flexing and relative movement of the ridges 410 and valleys 420,as well as localized deformation around the openings 430. Compression of the corrugated member 400 in a thickness direction remains limited due to the inherent stiffness of the sheet material.

[0155] FIG. 13C illustrates an oblique cross-sectional view of the corrugated member 400 in a flattened configuration. In this view, the concentric arrangement of ridges 410 and valleys 420 is shown from a perspective that emphasizes their radial and circumferential distribution across the corrugated member 400. This view further illustrates how the corrugation pattern is maintained across the member when flattened, and how the ridges 410 and valleys 420 define a repeating structural profile that governs flexural behaviour of the corrugated member 400.

[0156] FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate an example application of the corrugated member 400 in relation to soft tissue 230 and the mandible 240. In these figures, the corrugated member 400 is shown coupled to an interface layer 140 on a body-facing side. The interface layer 140 may be prepared, applied, and operated in a manner similar to that described with reference to FIG. 6, including the use of a skin-contact adhesive surface to temporarily bond the apparatus to tissue.

[0157] FIG. 14A illustrates the corrugated member 400 in an initial positioned state adjacent to soft tissue 230 beneath the mandible 240, prior to bonding. In this state, the corrugated member 400 may retain a curved geometry corresponding to its relaxed configuration.

[0158] FIG. 14B illustrates the corrugated member 400 during an application step, in which an external force is applied to press the corrugated member 400 toward a flattened condition against the interface layer 140. In this configuration, the interface layer 140 forms a bond with the overlying skin, while the corrugated member 400 accommodates the imposed deformation through flexing of the ridges 410 and valleys 420.

[0159] FIG. 14C illustrates the corrugated member 400 after release of the externally applied force. Upon release, the corrugated member 400 tends to return toward its curved configuration due to elastic energy stored during flattening. Through the bond provided by the interface layer 140, this recovery applies a controlled inward displacement to the adjacent soft tissue 230. Such displacement may increase the effective cross-sectional area of an airway or reduce soft tissue collapse, thereby potentially providing a breathing-related benefit.

[0160] The corrugated embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12-14C demonstrates that controlled negative-pressure-like effects may be achieved using geometric compliance in a substantially non-elastomeric sheet, as an alternative to embodiments involving compliant layers or connectors. The present disclosure is not limited to any particular corrugation pattern, opening geometry, or material selection, provided that the resulting structure exhibits directional mechanical behaviour consistent with the principles described herein.

[0161] In some implementations, the wearable apparatus described herein may be configured to permit airflow through or around the structure when worn. For example, spaces between rigid members, openings formed in compliant regions, or perforations in one or more layers may allow air exchange between the body surface and the surrounding environment. Such airflow may assist in reducing accumulation of heat or moisture at the body surface during extended periods of wear. The present disclosure does not require a particular degree of air permeability, and air-permeable features may be included or omitted depending on user comfort considerations and application context.

[0162] In some implementations, the wearable apparatus described herein may be used in a method of influencing soft tissue adjacent to an upper airway of an individual by adhering the apparatus to a body surface such that the apparatus provides mechanical support in a thickness direction while accommodating in-plane movement. The applied mechanical support may assist in maintaining or increasing a cross-sectional dimension of the airway during sleep or rest.

[0163] In some implementations, the apparatus may be used in a method of treating a sleep-related disorder, such as a disorder associated with airway narrowing, airflow obstruction, or soft-tissue vibration, such as obstructive sleep apnea, hypopnea, or snoring, by adhering the apparatus to a neck region of an individual in a manner that applies distributed external support to surrounding soft tissue.

[0164] FIGS. 15A-15C, 16A, and 16B illustrate a further embodiment suitable for forming a perimeter-adjustable structure for surrounding a body region such as a thorax or abdomen, while maintaining resistance to buckling under compressive loading.

[0165] As shown in FIGS. 15A-15C, an active wearable apparatus 500 comprises a plurality of interconnected sections 510 that collectively form an expandable band or at least part of the band. Each section 510 may be formed as a generally non-elastomeric element (for example a stiff sheet or molded piece) defining, at a first end, a pair of outer rigid fingers 512, 514 separated by a receiving space therebetween, and defining, at an opposite end, an inner rigid finger 516 configured to be received between the outer rigid fingers 512, 514 of an adjacent section 510.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 15 A, the inner rigid finger 516 of a section 510 is coupled to the outer rigid fingers 512, 514 of another section 510 by one or more compliant connectors 132. The compliant connectors 132 may be bonded to respective surfaces of the fingers (for example to opposed faces of the inner rigid finger 516 and inward-facing surfaces of the outer rigid fingers 512, 514), such that the coupled sections 510 remain mechanically linked while being permitted to move relative to one another. Although FIG. 15A illustrates two sections 510 coupled together for clarity, it will be understood that a plurality of sections 510 may be serially coupled in this manner to form a band having a perimeter suitable for positioning around a body region (for example a neck region, a thorax region, an abdomen region, or another region of interest).

[0167] In this embodiment, the compliant connectors 132 may operate in a manner generally similar to the compliant connectors described with reference to FIGS. 1A-7C. In particular, the compliant connectors 132 may be formed from elastomeric or gel-like materials selected to be substantially incompressible, such that loading tends to be accommodated mainly by shear or lateral deformation rather than by volumetric compression. The rigid fingers 512, 514, 516, by contrast, may be formed from relatively stiff materials so as to contribute to bending stiffness and stability of the overall band.

[0168] FIG. 15B schematically illustrates response of the coupled sections 510 to loading in a thickness direction (for example compressive loading directed generally normal to a surface of the band). Under such loading, the rigid fingers 512, 514, 516 tend to maintain their geometry and the compliant connectors 132 resist volumetric compression due to their substantial incompressibility. As a result, the coupled sections 510 may resist out-of-plane instability (buckling) that may otherwise cause folding, collapse, or loss of contact uniformity when the bandis pressed toward a body surface and / or when the band is subjected to externally applied pressure differentials.

[0169] FIG. 15C schematically illustrates response of the coupled sections 510 to loading in a longitudinal direction, which may correspond to a tangential direction along the perimeter of the band. Under such loading, the compliant connectors 132 deform mainly in shear, permitting relative motion between the inner rigid finger 516 and the outer rigid fingers 512, 514. In the illustrated example, shear of the compliant connectors 132 permits the inner rigid finger 516 to translate further into, or retract from, the receiving space between the outer rigid fingers 512, 514 of the adjacent section 510. This relative sliding-type motion changes an effective length contribution of each coupled joint, thereby enabling the band to change in perimeter while maintaining the fingers in a mechanically interlocked arrangement.

[0170] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an example operation of a band formed from multiple sections 510. In FIG. 16A, a circumferential or tangential force is applied to the band to reduce its perimeter (for example to facilitate placement on a body region and / or to conform the band to a body contour). In this contracted configuration, shear deformation of the compliant connectors 132 permits relative motion at the coupled joints, thereby allowing the band to adopt a smaller perimeter without requiring substantial volumetric compression of the compliant connectors 132.

[0171] In FIG. 16B, upon reduction or removal of the applied force, elastic energy stored in the compliant connectors 132 during shearing tends to drive the coupled joints back toward a resting configuration in which the band exhibits a larger perimeter. When the band is coupled to a body surface through an interface layer (for example an adhesive interface layer as described elsewhere herein), the recovery toward the resting configuration may apply distributed traction forces to the body surface through the interface. In addition, the comparatively higher bending stiffness provided by the rigid fingers 512, 514, 516 may assist the band in resisting buckling in a thickness direction while the band changes perimeter.

[0172] The embodiment of FIGS. 15A-16B is not limited to the specific finger geometry shown. For example, the receiving space between outer rigid fingers 512, 514 may be defined by another forked or slotted structure, the inner rigid finger 516 may be implemented as a tongue ortab of varying profile, and the compliant connectors 132 may be provided as one or more discrete connector regions, continuous connector strips, or combinations thereof. Further, while the illustrated embodiment depicts perimeter change through relative translation of the inner rigid finger 516 between the outer rigid fingers 512, 514, other relative motion modes (including rotation combined with shear) may be employed, provided that the band exhibits lower effective stiffness for tangential perimeter change than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction.

[0173] In some implementations, the band formed by the sections 510 may be employed as part of an actively operated wearable apparatus configured to apply time-varying mechanical interaction to a body region, for example to influence respiratory mechanics of a thorax and / or abdomen region. In such implementations, the band may be positioned to at least partially surround the body region, and the active wearable apparatus 500 may be operated to vary a perimeter of the band over time, thereby applying cyclic outward and / or inward mechanical forces to the body surface. The time-varying mechanical interaction applied by the active wearable apparatus 500 can assist breathing in a manner analogous to a negative-pressure ventilator or “iron lung”, by cyclically influencing expansion and contraction of the thorax and / or abdomen without delivering pressurized air into the airway.

[0174] By way of example, the active wearable apparatus 500 may be actuated to temporarily reduce the perimeter of the band to apply an inward compression or constraining force to the body region, and may then be released to allow elastic recovery of the compliant connectors 132 to increase the perimeter toward a resting configuration. Such recovery may apply outwardly directed traction forces through an interface layer coupled to the body surface, and / or may reduce external constraint to allow expansion of the body region. In this manner, periodic contraction and relaxation of the band may be used to emulate at least part of a breathing cycle by mechanically assisting chest-wall and / or abdominal-wall motion.

[0175] In some implementations, time-varying actuation may be provided by one or more tensile elements (for example cables, straps, or belts) routed along the band and coupled to the sections 510 at one or more attachment points. Tension applied to the tensile elements may draw neighbouring sections 510 toward one another in a circumferential or tangential direction, thereby producing shear deformation in the compliant connectors 132 and reducing perimeter of the bandin the manner described with reference to FIGS. 15C and 16A. When tension is reduced, elastic restoring forces of the compliant connectors 132 may drive the band back toward a larger-perimeter configuration as in FIG. 16B.

[0176] The tensile elements may be driven by one or more actuators, such as electric motors, linear electromagnetic actuators, shape-memory actuators, pneumatic actuators, or other force-generating devices. In some implementations, an actuator may be controlled by a controller configured to produce periodic actuation according to a breathing waveform, duty cycle, frequency, and / or amplitude. The controller may be configured to adjust actuation parameters based on user input, sensed motion, sensed pressure, or other feedback signals. The actuator may be powered by a portable power source, such as a battery, and may be integrated with the wearable apparatus or coupled via a removable module.

[0177] In some implementations, actuation may be provided by one or more contractile elements configured to contract in response to an applied stimulus and to thereby apply tangential force to the band. For example, the contractile elements may include electrically driven contractile polymer elements, thermally driven contractile fibers, electroactive polymer actuators, twisted and coiled polymer actuators, or other muscle-like contractile structures. The contractile elements may be integrated into a fabric layer, strap layer, or outer surface of the band, and may be arranged circumferentially such that contraction reduces the perimeter of the band. In some implementations, elastic recovery of the compliant connectors 132 contributes to a return stroke, such that the contractile elements predominantly provide force in one direction while the compliant connectors provide restoring force in an opposite direction.

[0178] In some implementations, the active wearable apparatus 500 may additionally or alternatively be configured as an enclosure that at least partially seals against the body to define a volume between the apparatus and the body surface. In such implementations, a pressure source may be fluidly coupled to the enclosure and operated to vary a pressure within the volume relative to ambient pressure. For example, a pump, fan, or other pressure source may be operated to produce sub-ambient pressure within the volume to assist expansion of the thorax and / or abdomen, and / or to cyclically vary pressure to assist breathing. In some implementations, the structural stability of the band formed by the sections 510 assists the enclosure in resisting buckling orcollapse under pressure differentials (such as vacuum) while still permitting perimeter change for comfort and fit.

[0179] Where a pressure-controlled enclosure is used, one or more compliant sealing regions may be provided at one or more ends of the enclosure and configured to contact the body surface to inhibit leakage, without requiring a rigid shell. In some implementations, the active wearable apparatus 500 may be configured to operate with a non-perfect seal, and one or more valves may be provided to manage leakage and / or to vent air during contraction or release. In some implementations, the interface layer described elsewhere herein (including adhesive coupling) may assist in maintaining contact and distributing load even where pressure control is employed.

[0180] In some implementations, actuation may be manual, for example by a caregiver applying cyclic tension to one or more straps or handles coupled to the band to change perimeter, thereby producing cyclic compression and release of the body region. Manual actuation may be used in emergency or field settings or in situations where powered actuation is not desired.

[0181] The active implementations described above may be used alone or in combination with the passive, adhesive-coupled “negative pressure-like effect” embodiments described elsewhere herein. For example, the band may be used as a passive structure that conforms to body contours and resists buckling while being pressed into place and adhered, and may additionally include one or more active actuators configured to superimpose cyclic perimeter changes.

[0182] As described throughout this disclosure, the wearable apparatus may be configured such that forces generated by elastic recovery or structural bias are transferred to adjacent soft tissue through the interface layer. In this manner, the apparatus may emulate the effect of externally applied negative pressure without requiring sealed chambers, pumps, or active pressure control. The resulting tissue displacement may occur gradually and over a distributed area, and may be perceived by a user as similar to the feel of a flexible garment rather than a rigid enclosure.

[0183] The embodiments described herein are compatible with a range of geometries, materials, and sizing strategies. In some cases, wearable apparatuses may be manufactured in a plurality of standard sizes, while in other cases they may be customized to individual users usingdigital modeling, additive manufacturing, or other fabrication techniques. The structures described herein are not limited to a particular manufacturing approach, attachment location, or anatomical orientation, provided that the resulting apparatus exhibits the directional mechanical behaviour described above.

[0184] The embodiments described herein have been presented for purposes of illustration and explanation. The illustrated configurations, geometries, material selections, and operational sequences are intended to convey the underlying structural and mechanical principles of the disclosed apparatuses, rather than to limit the scope of the disclosure to any particular embodiment. Variations in form, arrangement, scale, and implementation may be made without departing from the principles described herein.

[0185] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Accordingly, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and “comprising”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of one or more stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and groups. Directional terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “upwards”, “downwards”, “vertically”, and “laterally” are used in the following description for the purpose of providing relative reference only, and are not intended to suggest any limitations on how any article is to be positioned during use, or to be mounted in an assembly or relative to an environment. Additionally, the term “connect” and variants of it such as “connected”, “connects”, and “connecting” as used in this description are intended to include indirect and direct connections unless otherwise indicated. For example, if a first device is connected to a second device, that coupling may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections. Similarly, if the first device is communicatively connected to the second device, communication may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.

[0186] Use of language such as “at least one of X, Y, and Z”, “at least one of X, Y, or Z”, “at least one or more of X, Y, and Z”, “at least one or more of X, Y, and / or Z”, or “at least one ofX, Y, and / or Z”, is intended to be inclusive of both a single item (e.g., just X, or just Y, or just Z) and multiple items (e.g., {X and Y}, {X and Z}, {Y and Z}, or {X, Y, and Z}). The phrase “at least one of’ and similar phrases are not intended to convey a requirement that each possible item must be present, although each possible item may be present.

[0187] It is contemplated that any part of any aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented or combined with any part of any other aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification, so long as such those parts are not mutually exclusive with each other.

[0188] The scope of the claims should not be limited by the embodiments set forth in the above examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

[0189] It should be recognized that features and aspects of the various examples provided above can be combined into further examples that also fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the figures are not to scale and may have size and shape exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising:an outer layer comprising a plurality of outer rigid members;an inner layer comprising a plurality of inner rigid members; anda compliant layer bonded to the plurality of inner rigid members and the plurality of outer rigid members,wherein the compliant layer maintains a separation between the inner layer and the outer layer, andwherein the compliant layer comprises an incompressible material such that the compliant layer has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the compliant layer to accommodate in-plane movement of the plurality of outer and inner rigid members while resisting buckling of the apparatus in the thickness direction.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of inner rigid members and the plurality of outer rigid members are arranged parallel to each other.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the compliant layer is a continuous sheet extending across substantially an entire area between the inner and outer layers.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the compliant layer comprises a plurality of compliant connectors separated from one another, one or more of the compliant connectorsexhibiting lower stiffness for in-plane deformation than for resisting buckling in a thickness direction.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of compliant connectors has a span that is three to six times greater than a thickness of the compliant connector.

6. The apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein each of the plurality of compliant connectors is bonded to adjacent ones of the plurality of inner rigid members on one side of the compliant connector and to adjacent ones of the plurality of outer rigid members on another side of the compliant connector.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the inner layer, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the compliant layer comprises an elastomeric material.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of inner rigid members comprise an array of inner plates spaced apart from each other and the plurality of outer rigid members comprise an array of outer plates spaced apart from each other.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the array of inner plates are arranged in a staggered pattern relative to the array of outer plates.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the compliant layer is bonded to the plurality of inner members and the plurality of outer rigid members by adhesive, molding, or thermal bonding.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the compliant layer is formed by a material having a Poisson ratio of at least 0.45.

13. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the apparatus is shaped as a band for placement around a neck.

14. An apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising:a composite member comprising:a spiral structure comprising a first spiral element and a second spiral element; anda compliant layer bonded to the first spiral element and the second spiral element,wherein the compliant layer maintains a separation between the first spiral element and the second spiral element, andwherein the compliant layer comprises an incompressible material such that the compliant layer has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the compliant layer toaccommodate in-plane movement of the first and second spiral elements while resisting buckling of the composite member in a thickness direction.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first spiral element and the second spiral element are wound in opposite directions about a central region of the composite member.

16. The apparatus of claim 14 or 15, wherein the compliant layer comprises an elastomeric material.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the apparatus further comprises an interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the composite member, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the composite member is domeshaped, and wherein the spiral structure and the compliant layer together define a curved shape of the dome-shaped composite member when in an unloaded state.

19. An apparatus for placement against a body surface, comprising:a corrugated member formed from a single sheet of material and comprising a plurality of ridges and valleys extending across the sheet and a plurality of openings formed through the sheet, the corrugated member being arced to define a domed shape in an unloaded state; andan interface layer disposed on a body-facing side of the corrugated member, the interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body surface,wherein the corrugated member has lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the corrugated member to accommodate in-plane movement of the ridges and valleys while resisting buckling of the corrugated member in a thickness direction.

20. An apparatus for placement around a body region, comprising:a plurality of interconnected sections forming a perimeter-adjustable structure,wherein each of the plurality of interconnected sections comprises:a first end defining a receiving structure comprising at least two outer rigid fingers separated by a receiving space; anda second end defining an inner rigid finger configured to be received within the receiving space of an adjacent section;wherein adjacent sections of the plurality of interconnected sections are mechanically coupled by one or more compliant connectors bonded between the inner rigid finger of one section and the receiving structure of another section,wherein the one or more compliant connectors comprise an incompressible material such that the one or more compliant connectors have lower in-plane stiffness than in a thickness direction, wherein the lower in-plane stiffness than stiffness in the thickness direction causes the one or more compliant connectors to accommodate tangential movement of the plurality of interconnected sections while resisting buckling of the apparatus in a thickness direction.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the one or more compliant connectors are bonded to opposed faces of the inner rigid finger and inward-facing surfaces of the outer rigid fingers.

22. The apparatus of claim 20 or 21, wherein the one or more compliant connectors comprise an elastomeric material.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the perimeter-adjustable structure is configured to change in perimeter by shear deformation of the one or more compliant connectors.

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 23, further comprising one or more tensile elements coupled to the plurality of interconnected sections and configured to apply a tangential force to change the perimeter of the perimeter-adjustable structure.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the one or more tensile elements are driven by an actuator including at least one of: an electric motor, a linear electromagnetic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a shape-memory actuator.

26. The apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 25, further comprising an interface layer comprising an adhesive surface for detachably adhering the apparatus to the body region.

27. Use of the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 26 to provide mechanical support to soft tissue corresponding to a body part of an individual.

28. The use of claim 27, wherein the body part is a neck of the individual and the use of the apparatus maintains or increases a cross-sectional dimension of an airway of the individual.

29. A method of providing mechanical support to soft tissue of an individual, the method comprising:configuring the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 26 in a contracted state;adhering the apparatus around a body part of the individual that comprises the soft tissue while the apparatus is in the contracted state; andtransitioning the apparatus from the contracted state to an expanded state while the apparatus is adhered around the body part.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the body part is the neck of the individual and wherein the transitioning of the apparatus from the contracted state to the expanded state treats a sleep-related disorder of the individual.

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