Custom 3D-Printed Nasal Device for Adhesive-Free Breathing
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Solution Overview
Problem
External nasal dilators require an oil-free skin surface for adhesion, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A nasal device with a standard and regulators that fit over the exterior of the nose, using polymeric material and 3D printing to customize fit and shape, allowing adhesion without adhesive, and including internal nasal props for user-assisted customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adhesive is used to secure the nasal device to the skin, then the device can be firmly attached, but the skin must be substantially oil-free for sufficient adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the adhesive component entirely from the nasal device system. Instead of using adhesive to secure the device, the invention relies on the mechanical fit and friction between the device structure and the nose anatomy, thereby eliminating the need for skin preparation and adhesive application
Solution Approach 2:
The nasal device secures itself to the nose through its own structural design featuring engagement features that fit into anatomical landmarks. The device uses its geometry and friction-based retention mechanisms to attach without external adhesives, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating skin preparation requirements
2Ease of manufacture
If a standardized nasal device is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but it cannot be customized to optimize fit and airflow for each user
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal device is divided into multiple separable components including a body portion, engagement features, and adjustable elements. This segmentation allows different components to be manufactured using standardized processes while enabling customization through selective assembly and adjustment of individual segments
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable and flexible elements that allow it to adapt dynamically to different user anatomies. The engagement features can be positioned or adjusted to accommodate variations in nose shape and size, providing customization without requiring completely different manufacturing processes for each user
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing a device for facilitating or improving nasal breathing in a human user is disclosed. The method may begin with receiving a digital scan of an exterior of a nose of a human user. Based on the digital scan, a first virtual three-dimensional model of the exterior of the nose may be created. Once created, the first virtual three-dimensional model may be deformed to produce a second virtual three-dimensional model of the exterior of the nose. The deforming may include moving selected surfaces outward to simulate the flexible tissues on the sides of the nose being in an improved or optimum position for nasal breathing. Based on the second virtual three-dimensional model, a virtual three-dimensional model of a nasal dilation device may be created. An additive manufacturing process may be used to produce a tangible instance of the nasal dilation device, which may be delivered to the human user. When worn by the human user, the nasal dilation device may hold the flexible tissues on the sides of the user's nose in an improved or optimum position for nasal breathing.