Automated Mask Fitting System Using Video Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clinicians face challenges in selecting the most appropriate mask system for patients with sleeping disorders like obstructive sleep apnea due to the limited time available and the wide range of mask options, leading to potential suboptimal fits and reduced treatment effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A mask fitting system that includes terminals to receive patient data, a database storing mask system data, and a communication channel for comparing patient data with mask system data to recommend the best-fit mask system, utilizing imaging and scanning technologies for accurate measurements and grading criteria to ensure optimal fit and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a clinician manually selects a mask system from a wide range of options, then the selection can be customized to patient needs, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service mask fitting by allowing patients to complete online questionnaires and undergo automated video analysis at home, eliminating the need for clinician time during the measurement and selection process. The automated system processes patient responses and video data to generate mask recommendations independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual clinician assessment with automated video analysis technology. Computer vision algorithms automatically measure facial dimensions from video recordings, substituting the mechanical process of manual measurement and clinical judgment with automated digital processing.
2Measurement precision
If a clinician relies on limited knowledge and visual inspection, then the fitting process remains simple, but the accuracy and precision of mask selection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual visual inspection with automated video analysis technology. Computer vision algorithms automatically measure facial dimensions, calculate geometric relationships, and determine mask size recommendations, providing objective and precise measurements without requiring complex manual assessment tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces video recording as an intermediary medium between the patient's face and the measurement system. The video serves as a digital intermediary that captures facial features and dimensions, which are then processed by automated algorithms to generate accurate mask fitting recommendations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mask systems are available to fit different patient types, then the potential for optimal fit increases, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the right mask increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides structured feedback through automated analysis of patient responses and video data. The algorithm processes multiple input parameters (questionnaire responses, facial measurements, geometric calculations) and generates feedback in the form of specific mask size recommendations, making the selection process systematic rather than overwhelming.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the complex mask selection process into distinct components: online questionnaire completion, video recording, automated measurement extraction, geometric calculation, and recommendation generation. This segmentation breaks down the complexity into manageable steps that can be processed systematically.
Data Source
AI summary
A mask fitting system (1) for selecting a mask system for a patient includes at least one terminal (6) which receives data unique to a patient. The patient data can be scanned in using a scanner, such as a handheld or 3-D scanner, or the relevant dimensions of the patient can be simply input into the terminal. A database (2) is provided to store mask system data relating to a plurality of potential mask system solutions for the patient. A communication channel (4) is provided by which the data received by the terminal can be compared with mask system data stored in a mask system database, so as to generate a best-fit mask system result. The best-fit result may include one or more mask system recommendations for the patient.