Facial Alignment System Using Adjustable Tightening Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for addressing facial imperfections, such as rhinoplasty, involve invasive surgeries with significant risks and recovery times, and lack non-invasive options for minor to moderate corrections.
Innovation Solution
A facial alignment system comprising a mask assembly with adjustable tightening mechanisms and pressure zones that apply direct and indirect pressure to reshape facial features, using a series of mask portions designed to incrementally achieve a desired target state through the combination of physical molds and computer-aided design software.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If rhinoplasty surgery is performed to correct nasal deformity, then the facial appearance is improved, but the patient faces surgical risks, severe bruising, and up to one year recovery time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the surgical mechanical system (scalpels, incisions, bone breaking) with a non-invasive mechanical system (mask applying gradual pressure). The mask uses tightening members and pressure zones to apply controlled mechanical force to reshape facial features without cutting or breaking bone, thereby eliminating surgical risks and recovery time while achieving appearance improvement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the correction process from immediate surgical alteration to gradual, incremental reshaping over time. The mask applies sustained pressure with adjustable tightening forces, allowing the facial structure to gradually adapt and reshape without the trauma of surgery. This parameter change transforms a high-risk, single-event procedure into a low-risk, progressive process.
2Shape
If rhinoplasty surgery is performed to correct nasal deformity, then the facial appearance is improved, but the patient must undergo a complex surgical procedure with all associated risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex surgical mechanical system involving multiple instruments, incisions, and procedural steps with a simple mask-based mechanical system. The mask uses basic components (mask portion, tightening members, pressure zones) that can be applied and adjusted without surgical intervention, dramatically reducing procedural complexity while maintaining effectiveness for minor to moderate corrections.
3Shape
If a single rhinoplasty procedure is performed, then the nose is reshaped, but the patient has little choice but to accept the result or undergo a second procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics into the reshaping process through adjustable tightening members that allow the user to modify the pressure and fit of the mask over time. This enables incremental adjustment of the reshaping process, allowing patients to see progress and stop if satisfied, unlike static surgical outcomes. The system transitions from a fixed, single-outcome procedure to a dynamic, adjustable process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using a series of mask portions with progressively increasing pressure or different pressure zone configurations. Rather than attempting complete correction in one step, the system uses multiple stages of gradual adjustment, allowing patients to achieve desired results incrementally and stop when satisfied with the partial correction.
4Shape
If invasive surgery is used to address facial imperfections, then significant corrections can be achieved, but the procedure is all or nothing with severe recovery requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the invasive surgical mechanical system with a non-invasive pressure-based mechanical system. The mask applies gradual, sustained pressure to reshape facial features without causing tissue trauma, bone breaking, or bleeding, thereby eliminating the need for extended recovery time while still achieving measurable shape changes in minor to moderate cases.
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
Enables non-invasive, incremental correction of facial imperfections by reshaping cartilage and bones, allowing patients to see progress and stop the process if satisfied, with the final mask portion serving as a retainer for maintaining the achieved state.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second tightening members are configured to exert a tightening force on the first mask portion... when the rotary dial is rotated the first and second tightening members are pulled, thereby placing pressure on the user's face
Data Source
AI summary
A facial alignment system that includes a first mask portion and a rear portion. The rear portion includes a tightening mechanism mounted thereon that includes first and second tightening members that extend from the rear portion to the mask portion. The first and second tightening members are configured to exert a tightening force on the first mask portion.