Patient Interface Mask Identification Using Force and Vibration Signatures
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in pressure support systems for obstructive sleep apnea patients is the inability to accurately identify the type, size, and brand of masks used during therapy, which affects data interpretation, therapy management, and reimbursement processes.
Innovation Solution
A pressure support system equipped with force and vibration sensors that analyze the mechanical connections between mask components to determine the mask type, size, and brand, utilizing a controller to process sensor data and identify the mask through force profiles and vibration signatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If patients are supplied with a fit pack containing all mask sizes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of information worsens because clinicians and DMEs cannot determine which mask the patient is using
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mask identification methods with automated sensor-based detection. Force sensors and vibration sensors mechanically detect the mask connection and automatically identify mask type, size, and brand, eliminating the need for patients to manually track or report mask usage while maintaining ease of operation with fit packs
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service mask identification where the sensors automatically detect and record mask information without requiring patient intervention or clinician verification. The mask itself becomes the identifier through its mechanical connection characteristics, allowing the system to self-determine which mask is being used
2Measurement precision
If force sensors and vibration sensors are added to identify masks, then the measurement precision of mask identification is improved, but the device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensors and vibration sensors are integrated into the existing patient interface device structure, serving both their primary function (force measurement for therapy control and vibration detection for comfort monitoring) and the additional function of mask identification. This multi-functionality approach adds mask identification capability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the mechanical connection interface between the mask and patient interface device as an intermediary for identification. The force sensors and vibration sensors detect characteristics of this connection, which naturally varies by mask type, allowing indirect but accurate mask identification without requiring direct mask sensing
3Productivity
If automatic mask identification is implemented, then the productivity of therapy management is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements worsen due to the need for precise sensor placement and calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs mask identification automatically at the beginning of each therapy session or when the mask is connected, before therapy begins. This preliminary action ensures accurate mask identification is captured without requiring continuous monitoring throughout therapy, reducing the overall precision requirements while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent measures multiple parameters (force magnitude, force rate of change, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude) but only needs to achieve sufficient discrimination between mask types, not perfect measurement of each parameter. This partial action approach - measuring more than strictly necessary but accepting reasonable precision thresholds - improves productivity while managing manufacturing complexity
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
Enables precise identification of masks, allowing for improved therapy management, data interpretation, and remote control of device settings, while ensuring correct mask usage and facilitating reimbursement processes.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor structured and configured to generate force data indicative of a force generated during connection of the mask portion to the headgear portion or to the conduit portion or during use of the pressure support system
Implementation Method 2
a vibration sensor structured and configured to generate vibration data indicative of vibrations generated during connection of the mask portion to the headgear portion or to the conduit portion or during use of the pressure support system
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for automatically identifying a mask used in a pressure support system. An output of an identification sensor arrangement coupled to a patient interface device is received in a controller. The identification sensor arrangement includes: (i) a force sensor structured and configured to generate force data indicative of a force generated during connection of a mask portion to a headgear portion or to a conduit portion of the patient interface device or during use of the pressure support system, and/or (ii) a vibration sensor structured and configured to generate vibration data indicative of vibrations generated during connection of the mask portion to the headgear portion or to the conduit portion or during use of the pressure support system. The controller determines the brand, type and/or size of the mask portion based on the force data and/or the vibration data.