Optimization of the Mechano-Acoustic Frequencer(TM) to clear airways

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Canada ranked 8th among 16 peer countries for deaths related to respiratory diseases, with an average of 63.1 deaths per 100 000 between 2009 and 2011. Dymedso manufactures the Frequencer that promotes bronchial drainage by low frequency sound waves. The therapy is much gentler than the traditional "clapping" method (frequency in the 20-67 Hz range). Dymedso's customers reported that a frequency between 37 to 42 Hz eases mucous clearance compared to lower or higher frequencies. In a recent study, the team of Prof. Boffito identified that at a frequency of 40 Hz, 50 % amplitude and in the presence of a NaCl solution of 0.5 gL-1, mucous rehydrates and its viscosity decreases by 30%. Dymedso now wishes to expand the scope of the research and take into consideration more aspects involved in mucous clearance under the action of the Frequencer. This project involves Prof. Boffito (EPM), Prof. Poncet and Prof. Micheau (UdeS) and consists of both experimental work and numerical modelling. We will test the Frequencer at different frequencies, amplitudes and NaCl concentrations. Besides measuring the thermophysical and rheological properties, slip/peel tests after the vibrational test will identify the mechanism of mucous clearance. This part includes designing a predictive rheological model that takes into account all the variables above (EPM). We will model geometrical details of the human torso, determine the acoustic waves penetration depth and build a chest vibration map to visualize vibration distribution and mucous displacement in the lungs at different Frequencer's operating conditions (UdeS). The main deliverable is an improved design of the Frequencer, including head height, operating power and frequency, optimal concentration of saline spray (to minimize acute effects and make it tolerable). The success of this project will have a huge impact on the health and life quality of Canadian people having a respiratory disease linked to bronchial mucus. This project will train 2 PhD students, 2 postdocs and 9 undergraduate students. Dymedso will benefit from the commercialization of the a new design of the Frequencer, as well as from the deep insights of its way of operation.