Cam Wheel Adjustment for Patient Interface Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient interface devices for non-invasive ventilation and pressure support therapies lack effective adjustment mechanisms that allow for dynamic adjustment of the mask or cushion position relative to the face, limiting comfort and seal integrity over extended use.
Innovation Solution
A patient interface device incorporating a cam wheel mechanism that pivots about an axis, allowing the mask or cushion to move forward or backward, providing adjustable positioning and improved seal comfort through rotation of the cam wheel relative to the support structure and pivot arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If linear adjustment mechanisms (sliding members, screw mechanisms, pivoting arms) are used, then the mask component can be adjusted, but the range of motion is limited to inward or outward movement only
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism transitions from static linear movement to dynamic multi-directional movement. The pivot arm is configured to move along a curved path that combines inward/outward motion with lateral adjustment, allowing the mask to be positioned in multiple directions rather than being constrained to a single linear axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism adds a lateral dimension to the traditional inward/outward adjustment. By incorporating a pivot arm that rotates about a pivot point, the system transforms one-dimensional linear adjustment into two-dimensional curved path adjustment, enabling both depth and lateral positioning of the mask component.
2Ease of operation
If adjustment mechanisms are made more complex to provide multi-directional movement, then the range of motion improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustment functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The pivot arm simultaneously provides inward/outward movement, lateral adjustment, and positioning control through its curved path rotation, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each degree of freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot arm mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as both the adjustment lever and the positioning guide, provides both lateral and depth adjustment, and enables both coarse and fine positioning through its curved path geometry, making a single component perform what would traditionally require multiple components.
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 cam wheel mechanism enables easy and intuitive adjustment of the mask or cushion position, enhancing seal comfort and reducing discomfort during extended use, particularly benefiting users with less strength or dexterity.
Implementation Method 1
a cam wheel rotateably coupled to the support structure and engaging the pivot arm, wherein rotation of the cam wheel relative to the support structure and the pivot arm causes the pivot arm to pivot about the axis and the patient coupling member to move either forward or backward along a path of movement
Data Source
AI summary
A patient interface device includes a cushion member having a main body portion having a surface structured to engage a face of a patient. A frame member is coupled to the cushion member, and a fluid coupling conduit is coupled to the frame member. An engagement member is coupled to the cushion member; and a rotatable cam wheel is disposed between the frame member and the engagement member. Rotation of the cam wheel changes a position of the main body portion relative to the frame member. The cushion member includes a flexible portion adjacent the main body portion, and the cam wheel is rotatable about the flexible portion, such that rotation of the cam wheel about the flexible portion causes the flexible portion to deflect thereby moving the cushion member relative to the frame member.