Reconfigurable Respiratory Diagnostics for Portable Multi-Test Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current respiratory diagnostic devices are expensive, bulky, and require specialized knowledge to operate, limiting their accessibility and effectiveness in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions, particularly asthma and COPD, due to the need for multiple tests and specific breath maneuvers, and lack of portability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-configurable device capable of performing multiple respiratory diagnostic tests, including spirometry and impulse oscillometry, with a modular design and integrated sensors, allowing for easy use and accurate results without specialized knowledge, and compact enough for portability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate diagnostic devices are used to perform different respiratory tests, then measurement precision and diagnostic accuracy are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple respiratory diagnostic functions (spirometry, impulse oscillometry, FeNO measurement) into a single integrated device. The device includes a unified housing with integrated sensors, airflow channels, and control systems that can perform multiple diagnostic tests sequentially or simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a universal respiratory diagnostic tool capable of performing multiple different tests through a single platform. The system includes reconfigurable components and multiple sensor types that can be activated based on the specific test required, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized devices while maintaining the precision of each individual test type.
2Measurement precision
If specialized mechanical sample conditioning is implemented to ensure accurate measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates automatic environmental compensation systems that self-adjust for temperature, humidity, and pressure variations without requiring manual intervention. The control system automatically conditions the air sample and compensates for environmental factors, eliminating the need for operators to perform complex manual conditioning procedures while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sample conditioning systems with electronic sensing and computational compensation. Instead of using mechanical devices to physically adjust temperature, humidity, and pressure, the system uses electronic sensors to detect environmental parameters and software algorithms to compensate for their effects on measurements, significantly simplifying operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are deployed for comprehensive diagnosis, then diagnostic completeness is improved, but accessibility and portability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple diagnostic functions into a single portable device, combining spirometry, impulse oscillometry, and FeNO measurement capabilities in one unit. This integration dramatically reduces the total weight and size compared to using multiple separate devices, while maintaining comprehensive diagnostic coverage for respiratory conditions.
4Measurement precision
If expert knowledge is required to perform and interpret multiple tests, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes automated test selection and interpretation capabilities that guide users through the diagnostic process without requiring expert knowledge. The control system automatically determines which tests are needed based on initial inputs, performs the appropriate sequence of tests, and provides interpreted results, eliminating the need for operators to have specialized medical training while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms that monitor test progress and provide guidance to users. The control system continuously assesses measurement quality and provides automatic feedback on proper technique, ensuring accurate results while simplifying the operator's role from expert interpreter to guided participant in the diagnostic process.
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 comprehensive respiratory diagnosis and monitoring with a single device, reducing costs and improving accessibility by simplifying the diagnostic process and providing accurate, portable testing for various respiratory conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic impulse generator configured to push air in the airflow channel in the direction of the mouthpiece to create an acoustic impulse in the air in the airflow channel
Implementation Method 2
Nitric oxide levels can be measured using electrochemical sensors
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, there is provided a device for performing a plurality of respiratory diagnostic tests, comprising: a housing, a sensor assembly, and control circuitry configured to receive signals from the sensor assembly; wherein the device has a first configuration in which the device is configured to perform a first respiratory diagnostic test and a second configuration in which the device is configured to perform a second respiratory diagnostic test, wherein in the first configuration an airflow channel is defined through the device housing, the sensor assembly being configured to measure at least a first property of air in the airflow channel during the first respiratory diagnostic test, and wherein in the second configuration the airflow channel is modified relative to the first configuration, the sensor assembly being used to measure at least a second property of air in the airflow channel during the second respiratory diagnostic test. In another embodiment there is provided a stand-alone device is designed for performing an impulse oscillometry test.