Respiratory Interface Seal Analysis for Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users with sleep-related and respiratory disorders often face discomfort and inefficacy with existing respiratory therapy systems due to improper fitting, leading to leaks and reduced adherence to treatment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that analyze the seal between the user's face and the user interface using microphones and cameras to detect leaks, determine their location, and recommend a new interface for better fit, utilizing indicators like dyes or contour-forming materials to ensure proper sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a respiratory therapy system is provided to treat sleep-related and respiratory disorders, then treatment effectiveness is improved, but user comfort and adherence deteriorate due to improper fitting and leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary fit analysis before therapy begins by scanning the seal region with a camera and analyzing acoustic signals from microphones to detect leaks. This preliminary detection allows for interface adjustment or replacement before the user starts using the respiratory therapy system, preventing discomfort and adherence issues from the outset
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the seal region during use through acoustic sensing and visual scanning, providing real-time feedback on fit quality and leak detection. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the user interface or alerting the user to proper fit, thereby maintaining both treatment effectiveness and user comfort throughout therapy
2Reliability
If the user interface is customized to improve fit, then leak reduction is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service fit analysis by allowing the user to wear the respiratory therapy system with the camera and microphone components, which automatically scan and analyze the seal region. The user can then receive guidance or alerts about proper fit without requiring complex manual adjustment procedures or professional fitting services, thus preventing leaks while avoiding excessive system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual indicators such as dye application or color-changing materials in the seal region that provide immediate visual feedback on fit quality. When the interface is properly fitted, the indicator shows a specific color or pattern; when leaked, the color changes. This simple visual mechanism effectively communicates fit status without adding complex electronic or mechanical systems
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
Improves the fit of respiratory therapy systems, reducing leaks and enhancing user comfort, thereby increasing adherence to treatment and effectiveness of therapy.
Implementation Method 1
scanning, with at least one microphone, the seal region between the face of the user and the current user interface
Implementation Method 2
scanning, with at least one camera, the seal region between the face of the user and the current user interface
Implementation Method 3
placing a dye on a surface of the current user interface that makes contact with the face of the user
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed related to determining whether there is a proper fit between a user interface and a face of a user. The methods and systems involve generating seal information associated with a seal region between a face of a user and a current user interface donned on the face of the user. The methods and systems are further related to analyzing the seal information to determine whether a leak exists in the seal region. If the leak exists, the systems and methods include analyzing the seal information to determine a location of the leak within the seal region. The systems and methods further include determining a new user interface to replace the current user interface based on the current user interface and the location of the leak.