The project “Pressurized oronasal mask for sleep apnea” was approved for the second TRL stage and is now patent-eligible. The project proposes a new oronasal facial mask design composed of two individual chambers covering the mouth and nostrils, fluidly connected to each other by a means of unidirectional communication (fluidic diodes).
Authors:
Julio Romano Meneghini
Vítor Augusto Andreghetto Bortolin
Bernardo Luiz Harry Diniz Lemos
Rodrigo de Lima Amaral
Emílio Carlos Nelli Silva
DIFFERENTIAL:
Most commercial masks feature two individual chambers connected by at least one integrated valve with movable components. The correct functioning of these face masks is closely related to the correct functioning of their valves. Valves with moving parts, especially those with elastomeric materials, are more prone to failure and water accumulation from breathing. This accumulated water can start the proliferation of microorganisms that are harmful to the user’s health. To avoid these problems, the present technology uses fluidic diodes (valves with no moving parts) to connect the two individual chambers.
APPLICATIONS AND TARGET AUDIENCE:
The technology can be implemented in medical, hospital, residential, or any other CPAP treatment context for sleep apnea. The support falls within the field of continuous flow pressurized oronasal masks, playing an essential role in the field of health and care.
More information here.