Segmented Nasal Prong with Integrated Flange for Respiratory Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current respiratory interfaces for treating sleep apnea and other respiratory issues often suffer from discomfort, poor airflow, and limited patient compliance due to bulkiness and inadequate sealing.
Innovation Solution
The development of nasal prongs with integrated flanges and valves that provide improved airflow, reduced resistance, and enhanced patient comfort, along with features such as adjustable valves and energy harvesting capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If nasal prongs are made smaller and less bulky to improve comfort, then patient compliance improves, but sealing effectiveness and airflow control may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal prong is divided into multiple segments: a distal tip for insertion, a mid-section with integrated flange for sealing, and a proximal portion for connection. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the tip remains small for comfort while the mid-section provides adequate sealing surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange is merged directly with the nasal prong structure rather than being a separate component. This integration ensures that the sealing element is positioned precisely at the optimal location while maintaining a compact overall structure that improves comfort.
2Ease of operation
If nasal prongs are made smaller and less bulky to improve comfort, then patient compliance improves, but airflow and resistance control may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The nasal prong is divided into multiple segments: a distal tip for insertion, a mid-section with integrated flange for sealing, and a proximal portion for connection. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the tip remains small for comfort while the mid-section provides adequate sealing surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated flange acts as an intermediary element between the nasal prong and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface for airflow while maintaining a compact structure, effectively mediating between the need for small size and adequate airflow control.
3Manufacturing precision
If valves are made adjustable to improve treatment effectiveness, then treatment precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is designed with adjustable characteristics, allowing it to transition between different flow resistance states. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise control of positive airway pressure while using a relatively simple valve mechanism that does not require complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism allows for changes in flow parameters (pressure, flow rate) through simple adjustment mechanisms. By enabling parameter changes through user-adjustable components rather than complex electronic controls, the system achieves precise treatment effectiveness without excessive device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to respiratory interfaces for use in treating various respiratory issues including, but not limited to, sleep disorder breathing (e.g. snoring, sleep apnea), and in other forms of assisted and unassisted respiration. Embodiments disclosed herein further relate to nasal prongs, flanges and valves for use with respiratory interfaces. Embodiments disclosed herein further relate to evaluating patient compliance with a respiratory interface and harvesting energy for the respiratory.