Mandibular Positioning Device for CPAP Mask Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CPAP therapy face masks experience air leaks due to mandibular relaxation during sleep, leading to discomfort and potential discontinuation of treatment, as existing chin straps lack stability and compatibility with standard headgear systems.
Innovation Solution
A mandibular positioning device integrated with CPAP therapy headgear, featuring adjustable saddles and a support strap that stabilizes the chin, preventing posterior mandibular shift and maintaining mask position through a unitary integration with existing headgear, enhancing stability and compatibility with various mask styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional chin strap is used to address mask leaks, then the mandible position is partially supported, but the device is prone to sliding off and lacks stability
Solution Approach 1:
The chin strap is integrated with the headgear system through attachment mechanisms that connect the chin strap to the headgear straps or frame. This merging creates a unified support system where the headgear and chin strap work together as a single stable structure, preventing the chin strap from sliding independently while maintaining mandible support.
Solution Approach 2:
The chin strap is designed as a separate, adjustable component that can be independently positioned and secured to the headgear. This segmentation allows the chin strap to be optimized for mandible support while the headgear provides the stable anchor points, resolving the stability issue through modular design.
2Reliability
If the mask is tightened to prevent air leaks, then the air splint effectiveness is improved, but the comfort and wearability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The chin support function is extracted from the mask tightening system and implemented through a separate chin strap mechanism. This allows the mask to be optimized for air splint effectiveness while the chin strap independently manages mandible position, preventing the need to over-tighten the mask for comfort.
3Reliability
If a chin strap encircles the complete head to provide support, then the mandible is stabilized, but the device complexity and inconvenience increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chin strap is designed to integrate with various headgear configurations and mask styles, providing universal compatibility. The attachment mechanisms can connect to different headgear structures, and the strap design accommodates various head shapes and sizes, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
4Ease of operation
If conventional headgear is used without chin support, then the mask can be positioned on the face, but the mandible relaxation causes air leaks and mask displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The chin support function is merged with the existing headgear system through integration points on the headgear straps or frame. This creates a combined system where the headgear provides both mask positioning and mandible support, eliminating the need for separate chin straps that encircle the entire head.
Data Source
AI summary
A mandibular positioning device for use with headgear for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (“CPAP”) therapy face masks. The device can be integrated with existing headgear to maintain the position of a user's mandible during sleep while using CPAP therapy in order to prevent displacement of the user's face mask as a result of a posterior shift of the mandible. The device can include a pair of saddles for attaching the device to headgear, as well as a support strap which attaches to each saddle and which has a medial portion disposed underneath the user's chin when worn.