Nasal Interface Sealing Bevels for CPAP Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current respiratory therapy devices face challenges in comfort, cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and manufacturability due to issues with mask design, seal formation, and noise levels, particularly in nasal CPAP therapy for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, where patient compliance is affected by mask discomfort and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The development of improved nasal interfaces with nasal projections and coupler extensions that enhance sealing and comfort, incorporating features like sealing bevels and adjustable vents to reduce noise and improve fit, along with a flow generator system for controlled pressure and flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional mask designs are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but patient comfort and seal formation are inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is divided into distinct functional components: a seal-forming portion with specific geometric features (beveled edges, radii) for sealing, a headgear system with separate adjustment mechanisms, and a valve assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mask are given different properties: the seal-forming portion has specific geometric features (beveled edges at 45-degree angles, radii of curvature) optimized for sealing comfort, while other portions maintain simpler structures for manufacturability. The headgear uses different materials and mechanisms in different regions to balance comfort and ease of manufacture.
2Reliability
If complex sealing mechanisms are added, then seal formation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask employs self-adjusting geometric features that automatically adapt to patient anatomy. The beveled edges and radii of curvature in the seal-forming portion create a self-sealing mechanism that conforms to the patient's face shape without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms, thereby improving seal reliability while maintaining simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are integrated, then functionality improves, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask integrates multiple functions into unified components: the seal-forming portion simultaneously provides sealing, structural support, and interface for headgear attachment. The headgear system combines positioning, securing, and adjustment functions in a single integrated assembly, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Apparatus for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to a patient's airways comprising a frame including a plenum chamber, the plenum chamber adapted with a connection port for coupling with a delivery conduit, the frame including at least one flow director within the plenum chamber, the at least one flow director configured to direct flow at a naris of a user, the flow director in fluid communication with a gas supply port on an external side of the plenum chamber.