Swallow Exerciser Inflatable Pad Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for treating dysphagia, such as those using vibratory stimulation, can be uncomfortable and do not correlate with natural swallowing functions, necessitating an improved method to exercise swallowing muscles effectively.
Innovation Solution
A swallow exerciser device featuring a rigid shell with an inflatable pad that applies resistance to specific swallowing muscles when the user swallows, designed to strengthen muscles involved in the pharyngeal phase without triggering swallowing artificially, using a adjustable fastener and inflation apparatus to provide graded pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vibratory stimulation is used to induce swallowing, then swallowing can be triggered, but the sensation is uncomfortable and does not correlate with natural swallowing functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical vibratory stimulation system with a pneumatic system that inflates a balloon against the larynx. This substitution eliminates the uncomfortable vibration sensation while providing a gentle, natural pressure that correlates with the body's own swallowing mechanics, where the larynx naturally moves during swallowing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of stimulation from high-frequency vibration to low-pressure inflation. By controlling the inflation pressure to remain below a threshold that would cause discomfort, the system achieves reliable swallowing induction while maintaining patient comfort and natural function correlation.
2Strength
If resistance is applied to swallowing muscles, then muscle strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a simple rigid shell for positioning, a separate inflatable balloon for resistance application, and a basic fastening system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function with minimal complexity, avoiding the need for a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pneumatic inflation of a balloon to provide adjustable resistance to swallowing muscles. This pneumatic mechanism is simpler than mechanical springs, motors, or electronic actuators, as it requires only an inflation source and a flexible membrane to generate the necessary resistive force.
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 exercises and strengthens swallowing muscles by increasing resistance during natural swallowing actions, improving muscle strength without discomfort or artificial triggering, as demonstrated by increased pharyngeal contractile integral and peristaltic pressure fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable pad (37) which is dimensioned to apply resistance to force of at least one swallowing muscle
Data Source
AI summary
A swallow exerciser device that exercises and thereby strengthens the muscles involved in swallowing includes a rigid shell, an adjustable fastener, and an inflatable pad. The rigid shell has a longitudinal dimension such that the shell extends above and below the larynx of the subject when the swallow exerciser device is positioned over the larynx of the subject. The adjustable fastener is dimensioned to secure the shell around a neck of the subject with the shell positioned over the larynx of the subject. The inflatable pad is connected to a proximal surface of the shell. The inflatable pad is dimensioned to apply resistance to force of at least one swallowing muscle of the subject when the shell positioned over the larynx of the subject and when the inflatable pad is in an inflated position. The swallow exerciser device can be used in a method for improving swallowing function in a subject.