Mandibular Advancement Splint Layout for Lower-Bulk Sleep Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandibular advancement devices are bulky and uncomfortable to wear for extended sleep periods, posing inconvenience due to their bulkiness and design.
Innovation Solution
The device is designed with a maxillary splint that fits tightly on the upper jaw, featuring spaced-apart sets of electronic components positioned at separate ends of the splint, interconnected by a flexible conduit, and a compact positioning structure with interchangeable links to maintain the lower jaw in an advanced position, reducing bulkiness and enhancing comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic components are integrated into a single module, then functionality is complete, but device bulkiness increases and comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic components are divided into two separate sets positioned at different ends of the maxillary splint. The first set includes components such as the microprocessor and memory, while the second set includes sensors and alert units. This segmentation distributes the bulk across the device rather than concentrating it in one location, improving comfort during wear.
2Volume of moving object
If electronic components are distributed across the device, then bulkiness is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into functional groups located at specific positions: the first set of electronic components at a first end of the maxillary splint and the second set at a second end. This organized segmentation reduces complexity by creating clear functional zones rather than a random distribution of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The maxillary splint serves multiple functions: it provides the structural base for mounting electronic components, acts as the therapeutic device for mandibular advancement, and serves as the housing for the electronics module. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate housings and mounting structures.
3Reliability
If a hermetically sealed electronics module is used, then reliability in oral environment is improved, but device bulkiness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The maxillary splint itself serves as the protective housing for the electronic components. By integrating the housing function into the existing therapeutic device structure, the patent eliminates the need for a separate bulky hermetic enclosure, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing overall bulkiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic components are divided into two distributed sets rather than one consolidated module. This segmentation allows each set to be smaller and more easily integrated into the maxillary splint structure, reducing the bulkiness associated with a single large hermetically sealed module while maintaining protection through the splint's structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A mandibular advancement device to adjust a lower jaw in an advanced position with respect to an upper jaw of a user includes a maxillary splint with a first and second splint body end portion and a splint bridge portion and further a mandibular splint which is coupled to the maxillary splint by a positioning structure. The device also incldues an electronics module which is subdivided into a first set of electronic components which is positioned at the first splint body end portion and a second set of electronic components which is positioned at the second splint body end portion. The spaced sets at both ends of the maxillary splint are electronically interconnected to form the electronics module. Herewith, the device has a smooth and compact configuration which is convenient to wear for several hours during a sleep therapy.