Wearable Saliva Management Device With Wind-Up Timer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dry mouth syndrome, characterized by an unusually dry mouth, often results from medication side effects, mouth breathing, or unknown causes, leading to issues like tooth decay, altered taste, and oral infections, with no effective solution for alleviation during sleep.
Innovation Solution
A wearable saliva management device with a wind-up timer and finger-operated pump that periodically releases a water mist into the mouth from a self-contained reservoir, using teeth clips and a strap for secure placement, to alleviate dry mouth syndrome during sleep.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wearable device with reservoir and pump is used to deliver water mist during sleep, then dry mouth syndrome is alleviated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spray nozzle assembly is integrated within the housing structure, and the reservoir is positioned to work with the pump mechanism. The teeth clips and strap are attached to the housing, creating a nested configuration where components are housed within each other to reduce overall complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into a single unit: the reservoir stores water, the pump pressurizes and delivers water, the nozzle atomizes it into mist, and the teeth clips with strap provide secure positioning. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for separate devices and simplifies the overall system.
2Reliability
If a finger-operated pump is used to pressurize water, then water mist delivery is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The finger-operated pump is designed to be manually actuated by the user themselves. The pump mechanism allows the user to pressurize the water reservoir through simple finger movements, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex automated systems. The user performs the pressurization function directly on the device.
3Stability of the object's composition
If teeth clips and strap are used to secure the device, then device stability improves, but comfort during sleep may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The teeth clips are designed to engage with specific teeth in the mouth, distributing the securing force locally at discrete points rather than applying pressure across large areas. The strap provides additional localized support, allowing the device to remain stable while minimizing discomfort to the user during sleep.
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 device effectively alleviates dry mouth syndrome by providing periodic hydration, reducing the risk of associated oral health issues and improving sleep hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
A built-in, finger-operated pump pressurizes the water to force it out of the reservoir via misting nozzles
Implementation Method 2
The device utilizes a wind-up timer to periodically release a burst of water mist directly into the mouth
Data Source
AI summary
The saliva management system is a device that can be worn at night while sleeping to help alleviate dry mouth syndrome. The device utilizes a wind-up timer to periodically release a burst of water mist directly into the mouth, under the tongue. The water comes from a reservoir located within the housing of the saliva management system. The device comprises teeth clips and a strap to hold it in place. A built-in, finger-operated pump pressurizes the water to force it out of the reservoir via misting nozzles. A valve release is included to allow easier draining and cleaning of the device.