Dynamic Nasal Portion With Independent Cap Motion for Stable Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nasal portions for patient interface devices, such as pillows style nasal cannulas, impose restrictions on breathing gas flow, cause uncomfortable pressure points, and are prone to seal deterioration due to reliance on compressive headgear forces, leading to reduced comfort and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The nasal portions are designed to move between positions, expanding the exit opening to reduce pressure drop and minimize leak points, thereby enhancing comfort and seal stability through independent movement of extension and cap members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed opening design is used in pillows style nasal portions, then the structure is simple, but the breathing gas flow is restricted causing pressure drop and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal portion transitions from a fixed opening design to a dynamic design where the cap member can move independently relative to the extension portion. This movement capability allows the opening area to adjust dynamically, reducing pressure drop and improving breathing comfort while maintaining structural simplicity through minimal moving components.
2Reliability
If compressive headgear forces are used to maintain seal, then the seal is initially stable, but the seal deteriorates over time causing leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The independent movement capability of the cap member allows the nasal portion to dynamically adapt to facial movements and changes, maintaining seal stability without relying heavily on compressive headgear forces. This reduces discomfort while preserving seal reliability over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows changes in the positional parameters of the cap member relative to the extension portion, enabling the seal interface to adapt to varying conditions. This dynamic parameter adjustment maintains effective sealing while reducing the need for high compressive forces.
3Strength
If the nasal portion is resistant to deformation, then the structure is durable, but it does not conform to the shape of nostrils causing pressure points
Solution Approach 1:
The cap member's independent movement capability provides dynamic conformity to nostril shape without requiring the entire structure to be highly deformable. This maintains structural durability while reducing pressure points through adaptive positioning.
Data Source
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AI summary
A nasal portion is for a patient interface device of an airway pressure support system. The airway pressure support system includes a gas flow generator. The gas flow generator is configured to generate a flow of breathing gas to be delivered to an airway of a patient. The patient interface device is in fluid communication with the gas flow generator. The nasal portion includes an extension portion configured to be in fluid communication with the gas flow generator, and a cap member provided on the extension portion. The extension portion and the cap member each move between first and second positions, the cap member moving independently with respect to the extension portion when the extension portion and the cap member move between the first and second positions.