Double-Y Frame for Patient Interface Seal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient interface devices face challenges with seal and stability, comfort, weight, sizing, and claustrophobia due to issues with headgear fit and facial geometry compatibility, leading to compromised patient compliance with therapy.
Innovation Solution
A patient interface device featuring a frame assembly with a double-Y configuration, including a main frame member and a stiffening structure with Y-branches that allow for controlled flexing to accommodate various facial structures and head dimensions, combined with an auto-adjusting cushion for improved seal and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional headgear and frame structures are used, then the device can be manufactured and assembled, but the seal and stability are compromised during patient movement
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly incorporates a double-Y supporting structure with multiple degrees of freedom that allows dynamic adaptation to patient movement and facial geometry variations. The Y-branches can flex and reposition themselves to maintain optimal seal contact, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that responds to changing conditions during therapy.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure is divided into multiple Y-branches that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows different portions of the frame to adapt to different facial features and movement patterns, improving overall seal stability while accommodating anatomical variations across the patient population.
2Reliability
If headgear is tightened to improve seal and stability, then seal and stability improve, but patient comfort deteriorates due to pressure points and skin breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic double-Y structure automatically adjusts its configuration to distribute forces evenly across the facial surface. As the patient moves or as therapy progresses, the frame flexes to maintain optimal contact without requiring excessive tightening, thereby preventing pressure points and skin breakdown while preserving seal integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the patient interface device is made larger to accommodate diverse facial structures, then adaptability improves, but patient comfort deteriorates due to claustrophobia and interference with line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented Y-branch structure achieves adaptability through multiple independent elements rather than a single large frame. Each Y-branch can be optimized for minimal size while collectively providing comprehensive accommodation for diverse facial geometries, reducing overall device bulk and improving patient comfort.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional rigid frame structures are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but comfort deteriorates due to conflict with facial structures
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly incorporates flexible joints and movable connections in the double-Y structure that allow controlled flexing and adaptation. These dynamic elements can be manufactured using standard techniques while providing the necessary compliance to avoid conflict with facial structures, combining manufacturing simplicity with patient comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A patient interface device is includes a cushion and a frame assembly coupled to the cushion, the frame assembly including a main frame member and a stiffening structure coupled to the main frame member, the stiffening structure having a main arm, a first Y-portion coupled to a first end of the main arm having first and second front branches extending at upward and downward angles, respectively, from the first end of the main arm, and a second Y-portion coupled to a second end of the main arm having first and second rear branches extending at upward and downward angles, respectively, from the second end of the main arm.