Method and apparatus for measurement of pressure at a device/body interface

Abstract

A system and method for measuring contact pressures between two surfaces, and especially, between the body and a device resting on the body, e.g., the skin and a breathable gas mask. A deformable, resilient probe having a flow passage therein is initially placed between the two surfaces such that the flow passage is blocked. Fluid pressure within the probe is then increased until the pressure in the probe overcomes the contact pressure between the two surfaces, such that fluid begins to flow through the flow passage in the probe. The pressure at which the fluid begins to flow through the flow passage in the probe is recorded as the contact pressure between the two surfaces. Contact pressure maps created using this apparatus and method may be used to create anthropometric models of the face and other body parts.

1 - 21 . (canceled)  
   
   
       22 . A sensor for measuring contact pressure between a cushion of a mask and a surface of a patient's face, comprising: 
 at least one deformable probe having a flow passage therein, the probe being adapted to be inserted between the cushion and the surface of the patient's face in use and being adapted for connection to and in fluid communication with a pressurized conduit,    wherein the probe is deformable from a normally open flow passage configuration to a substantially closed flow passage configuration by application of a force urging the cushion against the surface of the patient's face, the probe adapted for connection to and in fluid communication with the pressurized conduit such that fluid flow through the probe and fluid pressure within the probe is measurable to provide a measure of contact pressure.    
   
   
       23 . The sensor of  claim 22 , wherein the probe is tubular.  
   
   
       24 . The sensor of  claim 22 , wherein the probe is formed of a rubber material.  
   
   
       25 . The sensor of  claim 24 , wherein the probe is formed of silicone rubber.  
   
   
       26 . The sensor of  claim 22 , wherein an amount of opening of the flow passage is a measure of contact pressure.