3D Facial Modeling for Patient Interface Device Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting patient interface devices for treating obstructive sleep apnea are time-consuming and inaccurate, often resulting in improper fits and discomfort, which can lead to leakage and reduced effectiveness of therapy.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses 3-D models of a patient's face and available patient interface devices to generate an interaction map, indicating levels of interaction characteristics such as contact pressures and leakages, allowing for a more precise selection of the appropriate device based on geometric and patient criteria fit scores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods (caregiver assistance, estimation, trial-and-error) are used to select patient interface devices, then the selection process can be performed without complex technology, but the process becomes time-consuming and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assessment methods with optical scanning and computer-based 3D modeling. A scanner captures facial geometry data, which is then processed by software to generate accurate fit predictions, eliminating the need for time-consuming trial-and-error physical fittings by caregivers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the patient's face through scanning. This virtual model allows for accurate measurement and device fitting simulation without requiring physical presence of the patient during the selection process, enabling precise measurements to be taken and analyzed computationally.
2Reliability
If traditional estimation methods are used by caregivers, then the equipment complexity remains low, but the fit accuracy and therapy effectiveness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective caregiver estimation with objective computer-based analysis. The system uses 3D scanning data and computational algorithms to predict fit accuracy and identify potential leakage points, providing reliable, data-driven recommendations that improve therapy effectiveness while automating the selection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system analyzes the 3D facial model, simulates device fitting, predicts potential leakage areas, and provides recommendations for optimal device selection and adjustment. This closed-loop approach ensures reliable fit assessment and allows for iterative refinement of the fitting process.
3Ease of operation
If improper fitting is accepted to simplify the selection process, then the selection can be performed quickly, but leakage and discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the patient's facial geometry and potential fit issues before the actual device fitting. The system identifies areas prone to leakage or discomfort in advance and provides pre-adjustment recommendations, allowing caregivers to make informed decisions and perform targeted adjustments rather than relying on trial-and-error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent proactively identifies and addresses potential fitting problems before they manifest as leakage or discomfort. By analyzing the 3D model and predicting problem areas, the system enables preventive adjustments to be made during the selection process, eliminating harmful effects before they occur during therapy.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus (1) including a display generation unit (110) configured to generate a display area (210) in a user interface, the display area being configured to display a 3-D model of a patient's face and a 3-D model of a patient interface device fitted to the 3-D model of the patient's face; and an interaction map unit (160) configured to generate an interaction map tool (260) in the user interface and to calculate an interaction map between the patient's face and the patient interface device indicating levels of an interaction characteristic between the patient's face and the patient interface device, wherein the interaction map tool is operable to toggle display of the interaction map in the user interface.