Breathing Sensing for Sleep Apnea Nerve Stimulation Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring the efficacy of neural modulation therapy for obstructive sleep apnea are invasive, subjective, or not suitable for seamless integration with existing systems, lacking quantitative assessment of therapy coverage and synchronization with breathing patterns.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an acoustic and motion sensing system with inertial measurement units, including magnetometers, to measure breathing patterns and muscle movements, allowing for quantification of stimulation synchronization and adjustment of electrical nerve stimulation parameters based on hit rate and inspiratory airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If PSG (sleep study) or CPAP masks are used to monitor therapy response, then breathing can be monitored, but the methods are invasive, subjective, or not suitable for seamless integration with existing neural modulation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines acoustic and motion sensing capabilities into a single integrated system that works seamlessly with existing neural modulation devices. The acoustic sensor detects breathing sounds while the motion sensor (including magnetometer) tracks thoracic movement, merging multiple monitoring functions into one unified system that integrates with the neural modulation device without requiring separate PSG or CPAP equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical monitoring systems (PSG equipment, CPAP masks) with non-invasive acoustic and motion sensing technology. By using acoustic sensors to detect breathing sounds and motion sensors to track thoracic movement, the system substitutes complex mechanical monitoring apparatus with simpler, more comfortable sensing technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into existing neural modulation devices.
2Measurement precision
If airflow monitoring methods are used, then breathing can be measured, but they are not suitable for seamless implementation in existing neural stimulation systems and may be perceived as annoying by the subject
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces airflow monitoring methods that require physical interaction with the subject's breathing (such as masks or nasal cannulas) with acoustic and motion sensing. The acoustic sensor detects breathing sounds through the air, and the motion sensor tracks thoracic movement, eliminating the need for physical airflow obstruction or contact that causes discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses acoustic waves and motion detection as intermediaries to monitor breathing without directly interfering with airflow. Instead of measuring airflow directly (which requires physical contact), the system detects the acoustic signatures and motion patterns associated with breathing, providing an indirect but comfortable monitoring approach.
3Ease of operation
If visual assessment methods are used for self-assessment or visualization of airway opening, then subjective feedback can be obtained, but the results are highly subjective and provide only qualitative rather than quantitative data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual assessment methods with objective acoustic and motion sensing technology. Instead of relying on subjects to visually assess their own airway opening (which is subjective and qualitative), the system uses acoustic sensors to detect breathing sound changes and motion sensors to measure thoracic movement, providing objective quantitative data about therapy efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements an objective feedback system that automatically measures and quantifies therapy response through acoustic and motion sensing. The system provides quantitative feedback about breathing patterns, thoracic movement, and airway patency based on objective sensor data rather than subjective visual assessment, enabling precise measurement of hit rate and therapy coverage.
4Measurement precision
If implanted intracostal respiratory sensing leads are used, then breathing pattern can be monitored, but the method is invasive and requires additional surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive implanted intracostal respiratory sensing leads with non-invasive acoustic and motion sensing technology. The acoustic sensor detects breathing sounds from the chest surface, and the motion sensor (including magnetometer) measures thoracic movement externally, eliminating the need for surgical implantation of sensing leads while maintaining accurate breathing pattern monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses acoustic waves and magnetic field-based motion detection as intermediaries to monitor breathing patterns without direct contact with internal respiratory structures. Instead of implanting leads that physically contact the respiratory system, the system detects breathing patterns through acoustic signatures and external motion measurement, providing a non-invasive monitoring approach.
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 accurate, non-invasive monitoring and optimization of neural modulation therapy for obstructive sleep apnea by quantifying therapy efficacy and adjusting stimulation parameters for improved airway opening and breathing synchronization.
Implementation Method 1
the inertial measurement unit comprises at least one magnetometer
Implementation Method 2
measuring an acoustic signal and a motion signal caused by the subject's breathing
Implementation Method 3
the motion signal comprises a movement or contraction of one or more muscles related to the subject's airway; the motion sensing unit comprises at least one inertial measurement unit
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention described herein refers to a method for measuring a degree of airway opening, e.g. based on an acoustic signal and/or on a muscle displacement, to a system for implementing said method and to a use of the method and system in obstructive sleep apnea therapy.