Multi-stage nasal filter with high impedance material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nasal filters are ineffective against small particle sizes, such as those of the Coronavirus and other influenza strains, due to their low impedance materials which allow larger particles to pass through, and high impedance materials are uncomfortable for intranasal use.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage filtration device with a high impedance filter material configured to have a large cross-sectional area, featuring complex geometries and surface topologies to reduce effective impedance, allowing for the trapping of small particles without compromising breathing comfort, and incorporating antiseptic properties to enhance pathogen elimination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high impedance filter material is used to filter small particles, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but breathing comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter material is configured to extend in multiple dimensions within the nasal passage, increasing its effective surface area from a simple linear dimension to a three-dimensional structure. This dimensional expansion allows the high impedance material to provide effective small particle filtration while distributing the resistance across a larger area, maintaining breathing comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter material is divided into multiple stages or sections with different pore sizes and impedance characteristics. The first stage captures larger particles with lower impedance, while subsequent stages progressively filter smaller particles with higher impedance materials, distributing the total resistance across segments rather than concentrating it in a single high-impedance layer.
2Ease of operation
If low impedance filter material is used for intranasal comfort, then breathing comfort is improved, but filtration effectiveness against small particles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is segmented into multiple stages where the first stage uses low impedance material for comfort and initial filtration, while subsequent stages use progressively higher impedance materials for small particle capture. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized for its specific function without compromising overall performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the filter material have different impedance characteristics tailored to their specific filtration needs. The proximal region (first stage) has lower impedance for comfort, while distal regions (subsequent stages) have higher impedance for small particle capture, creating a gradient of local qualities optimized for both comfort and effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If filter material surface area is increased to reduce effective impedance, then device complexity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The filter material is configured with curved, convoluted, or spiral geometries that naturally increase surface area within the limited nasal passage volume. These curved configurations are more tolerant to manufacturing variations than precise linear dimensions, as the overall surface area effect is maintained even with moderate geometric variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter material is folded or convoluted into nested configurations that pack increased surface area into a compact form factor. This nesting approach allows the high surface area structure to be manufactured from standard sheet materials through folding and bonding processes, reducing the need for complex three-dimensional manufacturing precision.
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
The device effectively filters small particles, including those in the 0.1-0.3 micron range, while maintaining user comfort by distributing high impedance material over a large area and utilizing antiseptic properties to kill pathogens, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
Implementation Method 1
the traditional mechanical filtering mechanisms (interception, impaction, and diffusion) are least effective
Implementation Method 2
the traditional mechanical filtering mechanisms (interception, impaction, and diffusion) are least effective
Implementation Method 3
the traditional mechanical filtering mechanisms (interception, impaction, and diffusion) are least effective
Implementation Method 4
The filter material may be coated with an antiseptic or disinfectant such as povidone iodine or iodoprovidone
Data Source
AI summary
Intra-nasal filter devices and methods for their manufacture and use are disclosed. An intra-nasal filter device includes: a first stage filter proximate the septum; and a second stage filter comprising a flexible material extending upwardly from the first filter stage filter; wherein the flexible material comprises: an impedance in the range of 0.02 to 0.2 cmH2O; an effective cross-sectional area in the range of 0.2 to 2 square inches; and a plurality of radially extending geometric structures disposed along an axial length of the second stage.