Buccal Valve Flap Dynamics for Respiratory Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current buccal devices lack an internal valve mechanism to control respiratory flow effectively, particularly in creating positive expiratory pressure (PEP) within the buccal cavity, and existing valves are external components that do not integrate well with the anatomy, leading to inefficiencies in airflow management.
Innovation Solution
A finned buccal valve with a movable flap and fixed body that controls airflow volume and direction, utilizing the elastic properties of soft tissues to generate PEP by directing airflow through the deepest part of the buccal cavity, enhancing resistance and pressure within the respiratory tract.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an internal valve mechanism is integrated into the buccal device, then airflow control capability and PEP generation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is integrated directly into the buccal device housing, merging the valve mechanism with the device structure. This eliminates the need for separate external valve components while maintaining effective airflow control and PEP generation capabilities within the buccal cavity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls airflow volume, directs airflow path, generates positive expiratory pressure, and works with the finned structure to enhance turbulence. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing complexity while improving reliability.
2Reliability
If the valve flap is made to closely adapt to different geometries of the valve body, then sealing performance is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve flap is designed as a flexible, movable component that can dynamically adapt its position and shape in response to airflow pressure and geometric variations in the valve body. This dynamic adaptation allows the flap to maintain effective sealing across different geometries without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve flap material and geometric parameters are optimized to allow controlled deformation and movement. By changing the flexibility and dimensional parameters of the flap, it can accommodate variations in valve body geometry while maintaining adequate sealing performance, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements.
3Speed
If the valve flap reaction speed is increased to respond to airflow direction changes, then responsiveness is improved, but mechanical stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The valve flap is divided into multiple segments or fins that can move independently or semi-independently. This segmentation allows different portions of the flap to respond to airflow changes at different rates, improving overall responsiveness while distributing mechanical stresses to maintain stability. The finned structure enables gradual adaptation rather than sudden movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve flap is constructed from flexible material that can rapidly deform in response to airflow pressure changes. This flexibility enables quick reaction to airflow direction changes while the thin-film structure dissipates mechanical stresses, preventing instability. The material properties are selected to balance responsiveness with structural integrity.
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
The buccal valve effectively generates positive expiratory pressure, improving respiratory tract pressure and airflow management, suitable for medical treatments and non-medical applications such as sports training, while being adaptable to various anatomies and easy to install and clean.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing the elastic properties of soft tissues to generate PEP by directing airflow through the deepest part of the buccal cavity
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 4~5B
AI summary
The present invention relates, without limitation, to a buccal valve suitable for modifying the respiratory flow of a user, which comprises: a valve body (1), adapted to be arranged between the dental arches of the user, wherein said valve body (1) comprises one or more airflow passages (5) therethrough; and one or more valve flaps (2) configured to be connected to the valve body (1) and adapted to regulate the flow rate and direction of the airflow entering the buccal cavity proper through the airflow passages (5); and so that, when the buccal valve is installed in the buccal cavity of the user, the one or more valve flaps (2) are positioned in the buccal cavity proper and exposed to direct contact with the tongue of the user.