Electroactive Polymer Mask for Adaptive CPAP Seal and Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional respiratory assistance systems, such as CPAP devices for treating sleep apnea, often fail to provide an effective seal due to poorly sized masks, leading to reduced treatment efficacy, leaks, skin irritation, and noise disturbances, as they do not account for individual patient characteristics and environmental variables.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape-changing materials, like electroactive polymers (EAPs) and elastomers, which adjust size and shape in response to electrical stimulation, allowing for real-time adaptation of components like masks, straps, and conduits to fit varying patient sizes and breathing patterns, ensuring a secure seal and improved airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size mask is used for CPAP treatment, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the mask cannot adapt to different patient face sizes leading to incomplete seal and leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mask structure adaptable and adjustable rather than fixed. The mask includes adjustable components such as headgear with adjustable straps, and the cushion can be adjusted to accommodate different patient face sizes and shapes, allowing the mask to dynamically adapt to various patients while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing adjustment of key mask parameters including cushion size, headgear tension, and strap length. These parameter adjustments enable the same mask structure to fit different patient face sizes and shapes effectively, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity
2Reliability
If a custom-made mask is created from a mold of the patient's face, then the seal effectiveness is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the mask into separate adjustable components: a cushion portion that contacts the face, a frame portion, and a headgear portion with adjustable straps. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for seal effectiveness while using standardized manufacturing processes, avoiding the need for complete custom molding
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a mask structure that can serve multiple patients through adjustment mechanisms. The cushion and headgear can be adjusted to accommodate different face sizes and shapes, making a single mask design universally applicable while maintaining reliable seals across diverse patients
3Reliability
If the mask is tightly secured to prevent leaks, then the seal effectiveness is improved, but patient comfort is reduced due to skin irritation and restricted breathing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a soft, compliant cushion material that contacts the patient's face. This cushion is made of a different material than the rigid frame, providing localized comfort at the contact point while maintaining structural integrity elsewhere. The cushion conforms to the patient's face shape to create an effective seal without requiring excessive tightening that would cause skin irritation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dynamics by incorporating adjustable headgear and straps that allow the seal tightness to be optimized for each patient. The system can dynamically adjust the tension applied to achieve an effective seal while minimizing discomfort, and some designs allow adjustment during treatment to accommodate changes in patient comfort or positioning
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
This solution enhances the effectiveness of respiratory assistance by maintaining a consistent and comfortable fit, reducing leaks and noise, and improving airflow efficiency, while also allowing for adjustments based on environmental and patient-specific criteria.
Implementation Method 1
The shape changing material may be an electro active polymer (EAPs) or elastomer (e.g., elastomeric in nature), for example a silicone, based material
Implementation Method 2
The shape changing material may be an electro active polymer (EAPs) or elastomer (e.g., elastomeric in nature), for example a silicone, based material
Data Source
AI summary
A respiratory assistance component is disclosed that changes shape when an electrical charge is provided. The amount of electrical charge that is applied may be based on values, characteristics, or user controlled parameters of the respiratory assistance system. The component may be all or part of a patient interface, a tube, a flow generator, and/or a sleep mat.