Oscillating Respiratory Pressure Device with Rotating Restrictor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with significant bronchial obstructions face challenges in clearing bronchial secretions due to insufficient coughing, necessitating an effective therapy that can be easily administered and managed, especially for those with chronic obstructive lung disease.
Innovation Solution
A portable oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device that adjusts oscillation frequency by replacing components or changing the speed of a rotating restrictor member, allowing for oscillating respiratory pressure independent of device orientation or user manipulation, and can be used in conjunction with aerosol therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single cough is used to clear bronchial secretions, then the method is simple and requires no device, but it is insufficient for individuals with significant bronchial obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) therapy that delivers rhythmic pressure variations to the airways. The device generates oscillating pressure waves at specific frequencies (typically 5-20 Hz) that repeatedly open and close airway segments, effectively loosening and clearing secretions that a single cough cannot remove. This periodic mechanical stimulation overcomes the insufficiency of single-cough methods while maintaining patient autonomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying pressure magnitude, oscillation frequency, and duration of OPEP delivery to optimize secretion clearance. The device allows adjustment of peak inspiratory pressure (typically 20-40 cmH2O) and oscillation frequency to match patient-specific needs and different types of secretions. These parameter modifications enable effective treatment of significant bronchial obstructions while maintaining ease of use.
2Ease of operation
If OPEP therapy is administered manually by patients, then patient autonomy and ease of administration are improved, but consistent and precise delivery of therapy parameters becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing a portable OPEP device that patients can independently operate without clinical supervision. The device includes user-friendly controls allowing patients to initiate, adjust, and terminate therapy sessions autonomously. This maintains patient autonomy while the built-in control systems ensure consistent parameter delivery, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through pressure sensors and flow sensors that continuously monitor therapy delivery and patient breathing patterns. This feedback enables the device to automatically adjust pressure and flow parameters to maintain therapeutic effectiveness, ensuring precise parameter delivery even when operated by patients without specialized training.
3Manufacturing precision
If oscillation frequency is adjusted by replacing components, then frequency precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes through electronic control of oscillation frequency rather than mechanical component changes. The device includes an adjustable frequency control system that allows users to select from pre-programmed frequency settings (e.g., 5 Hz, 10 Hz, 15 Hz, 20 Hz) or continuously adjust within the therapeutic range. This electronic parameter adjustment maintains frequency precision while eliminating the need for physical component replacement, thereby reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical frequency adjustment mechanisms (such as interchangeable restrictors or valves) with an electronic control system that uses motors or pneumatic actuators to dynamically adjust flow resistance and generate oscillations. This substitution of mechanical systems with electronically controlled systems maintains precise frequency control while simplifying the device structure and improving ease of operation.
4Ease of operation
If the device is portable and manually operated, then ease of administration is improved, but reliability of consistent therapy delivery worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through a portable device design that patients can carry and operate independently at home or in various settings. The device includes battery power, intuitive controls, and automatic operation modes that minimize user intervention while maintaining consistent therapy delivery. This resolves the contradiction by enabling portability and manual operation without sacrificing reliability through automated control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback sensors that monitor pressure, flow, and patient breathing patterns to ensure consistent and reliable therapy delivery. The system automatically detects abnormal conditions (such as disconnection, improper sealing, or abnormal breathing patterns) and provides alerts or automatic adjustments to maintain therapeutic effectiveness. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable therapy delivery even when the device is portable and manually operated by patients without specialized training.
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 OPEP device effectively loosens bronchial secretions by oscillating exhalation pressure within specific frequency and pressure ranges, improving bronchial hygiene and airway clearance, and can be easily managed by patients for ongoing care.
Implementation Method 1
The source of rotational energy comprises a turbine operatively connected to the restrictor member and adapted to rotate the restrictor member in response to receiving a flow of air
Implementation Method 2
The respiratory pressure at the chamber inlet oscillates between a minimum when the at least one blocking segment is in the open position and a maximum when the at least one blocking segment is in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
An oscillating positive respiratory pressure apparatus and a method of performing oscillating positive respiratory pressure therapy. The apparatus includes a housing having an interior chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, an exhalation flow path defined between the inlet and the outlet, and a restrictor member rotatably mounted within the interior chamber. The restrictor member has an axis of rotation that is substantially perpendicular to the flow path at the inlet, and includes at least one blocking segment. Rotation of the restrictor member moves the at least one blocking segment between an open position and a closed position. Respiratory pressure at the chamber inlet oscillates between a minimum when the at least one blocking segment is in the open position and a maximum when the at least one blocking segment is in the closed position. By exhaling into the apparatus, oscillating positive expiratory pressure therapy is administered.