AeroPatch: A Wearable System for Real-Time Classification of Apnea Events via Multimodal Biosensing and Adaptive Electrical Stimulation of Upper Airway Dilator Muscles

Sleep apnea, a disorder affecting over one billion people globally, involves recurrent upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to oxygen desaturation, hypercapnia, and sleep fragmentation. This condition significantly increases risks of hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, and cognitive decline. Current diagnostic methods, such as polysomnography, cost over $1,000 per session and remain inaccessible to underserved populations. Therapeutic options, including Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, report adherence rates below 50% due to discomfort and lifestyle incompatibility. These barriers underscore the need for a scalable, non-invasive, and patient-compliant solution to manage sleep apnea effectively. AeroPatch is a wearable neurostimulation system designed to address these gaps through real-time detection and intervention. The device integrates biosensors to monitor oxygen saturation (SpO2), respiratory rate, and heart rate variability (HRV). Machine learning algorithms analyze these metrics, achieving over 95% sensitivity in detecting apnea events. Upon detection, biphasic electrical impulses are delivered to the genioglossus and hypoglossal muscles via surface electrodes, enhancing muscle tone and preventing airway collapse without discomfort or surgical intervention. The wearable lightweight, adhesive design ensures user compliance, while modular construction supports scalability and affordability for low-resource settings. This project will be implemented in four phases: design, prototyping, validation, and optimization. By addressing the limitations of existing solutions, AeroPatch aims to advance global healthcare equity, ensuring accessible and effective management of sleep apnea for all.