Magnetic Nasal Dilator

Like many people, I have a mild form of sleep apnea, and sometimes wake up in the middle of the night because I'm unable to breathe. I've heard really good things about the magnetic dilators, but I think they're overpriced for what they are. So I designed my own!

What you'll need

• Hydrocolloid roll

• 8x2mm round magnets

• 95A TPU

• Craft glue

First, print the applicator, and in the magnet hole, apply a small amount of craft glue. Then insert a magnet. Once the glue dries, we'll use it to identity the orientation of the magnets for the nasal dilator.

• Insert a little glue in the magnet slots of the nasal dilator, and then use the applicator to ensure the orientation is correct.  When correctly configured, the applicator will be attracted to the outside edges of the dilator.

• While that's drying, cut two small squares off of the hydrocolloid roll. Using the applicator to ensure the magnets orientation, use the hydrocolloid squares to hold the magnets on the side of your nose, just below your nasal bone.  Give the squares a minute or two to properly adhere to your skin, then clip the dilator in place. If you've done it properly, you should feel your nasal passages begin to open, and breathing should be easier.

• Special Note: Hydrocolloid strips work best for me, but they may not for you. The goal here is "skin-friendly adhesive" that's readily available. You may find that cutting up a band-aid works just as well or better.

Noses come in every shape and size, so I've included the fusion360 design so you can tweak it to best fit your needs. Adjust the nasal_arch parameter to increase/decrease the bridge height, and adjust the nasal_separation parameter to increase/decrease the "strength" of the dilator.