3D Patient Interface Visualization for Fit Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting patient interface devices for obstructive sleep apnea treatment are time-consuming and inaccurate, often resulting in improper fits and discomfort, which can lead to treatment failure due to the lack of efficient methods for determining the correct size and fit of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing 3-D models of patients' faces and interface devices to generate a display area for visual inspection, adjust transparency of device components, and calculate interaction maps to determine the best fit, incorporating geometric and patient criteria fit scores to select the most suitable device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual methods are used to select patient interface devices, then the selection process can be completed with simple tools, but the accuracy and efficiency of determining the correct fit are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the patient interface device selection process from manual estimation to automated 3D measurement by changing the measurement parameters from subjective caregiver assessment to objective digital facial geometry data, achieving both higher accuracy and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual measurement and trial-fitting process with a digital 3D modeling and visualization system that automatically calculates fit scores and predicts device performance based on facial geometry
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes and types of patient interface devices are available to ensure proper fit, then the selection options are comprehensive, but the total number of distinct devices becomes quite large making selection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large set of available patient interface devices into categorized groups based on device type, size, and intended use, allowing caregivers to systematically evaluate options rather than overwhelming them with the complete set of all possible devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the patient's face and virtual representations of different patient interface devices, allowing visualization and comparison of multiple device options on the digital facial model before actual selection is made
3Reliability
If patient interface devices are worn for extended periods to treat OSA, then the treatment effectiveness is improved, but comfort and proper fit become critical concerns that may cause patients to avoid wearing the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D scanning and virtual fitting of patient interface devices before actual device delivery, allowing potential comfort issues and fit problems to be identified and resolved in advance, ensuring both effectiveness and comfort from the first actual use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides visual feedback through 3D interaction maps that show predicted contact pressure distribution and fit quality, allowing caregivers to select devices that will maximize both treatment effectiveness and patient comfort based on objective fit metrics
4Measurement precision
If improper fit of patient interface devices occurs, then gaps between the device and patient face are created, but this causes unwanted leakage that compromises treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 3D facial scanning to precisely measure facial geometry parameters and compares them against device dimensions, transforming the fit assessment from visual estimation to quantitative measurement that directly predicts leakage risk
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic apparatus (1) includes a display generation unit (110) configured to generate a display area (210) in a user interface (200-4,200-5), the display area being configured to display a 3-D model of a patient's face and a 3-D model of a patient interface device fitted to the 3-D model of the patient's face; and a transparency adjustment unit (150) configured to generate a transparency adjustment tool (250) in the user interface, the transparency adjustment tool being operable to adjust the transparency of a subset of components of the 3-D model of the patient interface device displayed in the 3-D display area of the user interface.