Variable Orifice Valve for Respiratory Muscle Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing respiratory muscle training devices provide constant resistance loading, which does not account for varying respiratory muscle capabilities at different lung volumes, leading to overloading at high volumes and sub-optimal loading at low volumes.
Innovation Solution
A respiratory muscle training device with a variable orifice valve assembly and pressure sensor system that adjusts the orifice opening based on pressure differential and lung volume, using a microprocessor to maintain a predetermined pressure differential or flow rate profile, allowing for dynamic loading of respiratory muscles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If constant resistance loading is applied to respiratory muscles, then device simplicity is maintained, but training effectiveness deteriorates due to overloading at high lung volumes and sub-optimal loading at low lung volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the constant resistance valve into a variable resistance valve that dynamically adjusts its orifice opening based on real-time feedback from pressure sensors and flow sensors. The control system modifies the valve opening to vary resistance according to lung volume and flow rate, ensuring optimal training effectiveness across different breathing phases while maintaining a relatively simple device structure through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the resistance parameter from constant to variable based on physiological parameters (lung volume, flow rate). The control system continuously adjusts the valve orifice opening parameter in response to sensor feedback, changing the resistance level to match the respiratory muscle's capability at different lung volumes and flow rates, thereby resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and training effectiveness.
2Reliability
If variable resistance loading is implemented to match respiratory muscle capabilities, then training effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors, actuators, and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating pressure sensors and flow sensors that continuously monitor physiological parameters and feed this information to the control system. The control system uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the valve opening and resistance level in real-time, ensuring optimal training effectiveness. The feedback mechanism enables the device to adapt to varying respiratory muscle capabilities without requiring overly complex manual adjustment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the device to automatically adjust its resistance parameters based on sensor feedback and pre-programmed algorithms. The control system autonomously determines the appropriate valve opening and resistance level without requiring constant user intervention or complex manual calibration, thereby improving training effectiveness while limiting the increase in device complexity through automated self-regulation.
3Manufacturing precision
If valve orifice is fixed, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but adaptability to different lung volumes and flow rates deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing the fixed valve orifice with a movable valve mechanism that can dynamically change its opening area. The valve is actuated by a motor or actuator controlled by a microprocessor, allowing the orifice size to vary continuously based on sensor feedback. This dynamic adjustment capability provides adaptability to different lung volumes and flow rates while maintaining reasonable manufacturing precision requirements through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a valve mechanism that can serve multiple functions: it can adjust to different lung volumes, accommodate various flow rates, and adapt to different user profiles. The programmable control system allows the same hardware to be customized for different users and training conditions, enhancing adaptability without requiring multiple fixed-orifice valves with different precision specifications.
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 provides optimal loading at all lung volumes, ensuring effective training of respiratory muscles by varying resistive loads in accordance with lung volume, thereby preventing premature termination of inspiration and ensuring sub-optimal loading is avoided.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor for determining a pressure differential across the valve assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
A respiratory muscle training device includes a chamber (1) containing a variable orifice valve assembly (3). An inlet (9) is provided at a first side of the valve assembly permitting air to be inhaled into the chamber, and an outlet (11) is provided at a second side of the valve assembly permitting air that has passed through the valve assembly to be inhaled by a user. A pressure sensor (7) determines a pressure differential across the valve assembly. Means is provided for determining the opening area of the valve assembly, and control means (15, 47, 49) is provided for varying the orifice of the valve assembly in dependence upon a pressure differential determined by the pressure sensor and upon an opening area of the valve assembly.