Adjustable Voice Therapy Device With Pressure Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice therapy devices, such as conventional drinking straws, lack customizability in providing adjustable backpressure and measurable feedback, making them inconsistent and not reusable for long-term vocal disorder therapy.
Innovation Solution
A voice therapy device with an adjustable resistance portion and integrated pressure sensor, allowing for variable airflow resistance and real-time feedback through a connected software application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional drinking straws are used for SOVTE, then the therapy can be performed, but the device lacks adjustability and measurability of airflow resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance portion is designed to be adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the body, allowing dynamic modification of airflow resistance during therapy sessions. This enables the device to adapt to different therapeutic stages and patient needs without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the simple mechanical straw structure with a more sophisticated system incorporating a resistance portion that can be positioned at different locations within the body, creating variable mechanical resistance to airflow through controlled obstruction.
2Measurement precision
If conventional straws are used, then the device is simple, but they do not provide measurable information for therapy monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated pressure sensor provides real-time measurement of airflow resistance and provides feedback to both the user and clinician, enabling objective monitoring of therapy progress and allowing for data-driven adjustments to the treatment plan.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor acts as an intermediary element that translates the mechanical resistance created by the resistance portion into measurable electrical signals, bridging the gap between the mechanical therapy mechanism and the digital monitoring system.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional straws are used, then the device is inexpensive, but they are not reusable over the long term
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct modular components including the body, resistance portion, and mouthpiece that can be independently cleaned, disinfected, and replaced, facilitating long-term reuse while maintaining hygiene standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows for the recovery and reuse of the main device body while enabling replacement of consumable or contamination-prone components like the mouthpiece, optimizing the balance between reusability and hygiene.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables customizable and measurable vocal exercises, enhancing vocal fold efficiency and facilitating a more effective vocal therapy regimen, accessible to both professionals and non-professionals.
Implementation Method 1
the resistance portion is adjustable to vary an airflow resistance through the internal passageway
Implementation Method 2
the device comprises a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the internal passageway and in electronic communication with a processor
Data Source
AI summary
A voice therapy device including a body having an internal passageway with a longitudinal axis that defines an airflow direction; a mouthpiece positioned at a proximal end of the body; and a resistance portion positioned at a distal end of the body, where the resistance portion is adjustable to vary an airflow resistance through the internal passageway. In some embodiments, the voice therapy device includes a sensor electrically coupled to a processor. A system for voice therapy includes the voice therapy device and a software application.