A percussive system for airway clearance

Abstract

The present application relates to a percussion system for airway clearance, the percussion system comprising a percussion device and a percussion garment, the percussion device comprising: a first mechanical energy application part, which realizes airway clearance in a vibration mode; a second mechanical energy application part, which can selectively apply percussion or patting to realize further airway clearance; the percussion device and the percussion garment cooperate with each other to switch the working mode according to the feedback signal given by the percussion garment, i.e. to selectively activate the first mechanical energy application part or the second mechanical energy application part, and when the second mechanical energy application part is activated, to selectively apply percussion or patting. The present application can solve the problem in the prior art that manual operation is prone to cause misoperation in the treatment process, such as the grasping of percussion sequence and percussion strength, thereby reducing the treatment effect; and can also solve the problem in the prior art that the existing percussion device performs sputum removal operation at a fixed vibration frequency, strength and percussion strength, and cannot be adjusted individually according to individual differences of patients.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of medical equipment, and particularly relates to a percussion system for airway clearance. BACKGROUND

[0002] Airway clearance is a key link in the management of respiratory diseases, especially for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF), bronchiectasis, pneumonia and other diseases. Effective airway clearance can loosen and expel mucus, reduce airway obstruction, improve lung function, prevent infection and improve quality of life.

[0003] Chest percussion and vibration and other techniques are important treatment methods for loosening and removing sputum in the lungs. For example, Cun Xu, Yan Zhang, An Geng et al. found in the study of “Effectiveness analysis of respiratory tract clearance system for patients with pneumonia combined with stroke” (see Changzhou Practical Medicine, 2024, (No. 1)) that giving chest percussion and vibration sputum removal intervention and giving respiratory tract clearance system sputum removal intervention can effectively promote patients to remove sputum and reduce sputum retention. Existing vibration sputum removal equipment generates high-frequency vibration (generally 5-25 Hz) through compressed air or other power sources and transmits it to the patient's chest through specially designed inflatable vests, chest belts or handheld vibrators. Percussion or tapping is a rhythmic percussion or tapping on the patient's chest through a mechanical device or manually, usually at a frequency of 60-180 times / minute. Although there are many types of vibration sputum removal equipment or percussion devices at present, the existing instruments and equipment provide single and fixed functions and do not consider the differences in the patient's body for percussion or vibration sputum removal, so the effect is not good. For example, CN113304008A discloses a vibration percussion sputum removal machine percussion device, which adjusts the amplitude of the percussion device by changing the relative position of the adjusting sleeve and the eccentric shaft, so that the sputum removal machine does not need to replace the percussion device to adjust the amplitude, thereby adapting to patients of different ages and physical conditions, but this technical solution cannot perform percussion according to the lesion site of the patient, that is, the function mode is single and not targeted. For example, CN220442892U discloses a chest belt type vibration sputum removal instrument, which is a vibration percussion device arranged on the inner surface of the belt body corresponding to the parts of the human body (such as the left upper lobe, left lingual lobe, left lower lobe, right upper lobe, right middle lobe, and right lower lobe) to perform vibration percussion. Although it can theoretically perform vibration or tapping on the lesion site of the patient, due to individual differences in patients, the actual tapping or vibration may not be targeted at the lesion site, and this technical solution does not disclose the sequence, force of vibration, percussion or tapping, so it cannot achieve better results.

[0004] In some cases, patients clear sputum through high-frequency vibration. This vibration causes the mucus layer in the airway to vibrate and shear, breaking the adhesion between the mucus and the airway wall, causing it to detach and enter larger airways. The loosened mucus is then easily coughed up with the help of gravity and coughing, or expelled through ciliary movement. In other cases, patients clear sputum through percussion or tapping. The local pressure changes generated by percussion or tapping can cause a temporary displacement of the mucus layer in the airway, loosening the mucus attached to the airway wall. However, current equipment cannot adjust its operating mode according to the patient's actual condition, nor can it provide personalized airway clearance plans to improve treatment effectiveness. Therefore, existing sputum clearance devices still fall short in improving patients' respiratory function and quality of life.

[0005] Furthermore, on the one hand, there are differences in understanding among those skilled in the art; on the other hand, the applicant studied a large number of documents and patents when making this invention, but due to space limitations, not all details and contents were listed in detail. However, this does not mean that the present invention does not possess the features of these prior art. On the contrary, the present invention already possesses all the features of the prior art, and the applicant reserves the right to add relevant prior art to the background art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Due to individual patient differences, existing sputum expectoration devices, with their single function and fixed modes, are insufficient to achieve optimal results for patients with varying distribution and properties of pulmonary mucus. Current percussion devices typically employ fixed vibration frequencies, intensities, and percussion forces, failing to provide personalized adjustments based on individual patient differences. Significant variations exist in airway conditions, mucus characteristics, and breathing patterns among patients, making fixed parameter settings inadequate for all needs. For example, excessively strong vibrations may overstimulate the airways of patients with thin mucus, while weak vibrations are insufficient to loosen the mucus in patients with thick mucus. Furthermore, existing percussion devices often require manual operation by patients, family members, or healthcare professionals to select operating modes and adjust parameters, increasing operational complexity. Moreover, manual operation often relies on subjective feelings or experience, increasing the risk of errors such as misjudging the percussion sequence or force, thus reducing treatment effectiveness.

[0007] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a tapping system for airway clearance. The tapping system includes a tapping device and a tapping vest. The tapping device includes:

[0008] The first mechanical energy application unit achieves airway clearance through vibration;

[0009] The second mechanical energy application unit is capable of selectively applying tapping or slapping to achieve further airway clearance;

[0010] The tapping device works in conjunction with the tapping garment to switch working modes based on the feedback signal given by the tapping garment. Specifically, it selectively activates either the first mechanical energy application part or the second mechanical energy application part. When the second mechanical energy application part is activated, tapping or slapping is selectively applied.

[0011] The technical effects of this solution are as follows: This solution provides a first mechanical energy application unit that operates by vibration and a second mechanical energy application unit that operates by tapping or patting. The first mechanical energy application unit loosens mucus and promotes its discharge through high-frequency vibration, which can act on the entire chest or a specific area. The second mechanical energy application unit selectively applies tapping or patting, loosening mucus through localized mechanical impact, especially in airway areas requiring targeted treatment. The high-frequency vibration generated by the first mechanical energy application unit induces rapid mechanical vibration within the airway, causing high-frequency shearing motion in the mucus layer. This shearing force can disrupt the intermolecular forces (such as van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds) between the mucus and the airway wall, thereby weakening the adhesion of the mucus. The shearing force generated by the high-frequency vibration can cause minute displacement at the contact interface between the mucus layer and the airway wall, leading to the gradual separation of the mucus layer from the airway wall. The high-frequency vibration can also promote flow within the mucus, reducing the friction between the mucus and the airway wall, further weakening the adhesion. The local pressure change generated by the tapping or slapping of the second mechanical energy application part can cause a temporary displacement of the mucus layer in the airway, loosening the mucus attached to the airway wall; on the other hand, the shock wave generated by the tapping or slapping can penetrate the airway wall, causing the mucus to fall off the airway wall and enter the larger airway.

[0012] Furthermore, the percussion device of the present invention works in conjunction with the percussion garment, automatically or manually switching the operating mode of the percussion device to ensure that the percussion device activates the corresponding mechanical energy application part according to a specific operating mode. Specifically, the operating mode of the percussion device can be switched according to the feedback signal given by the percussion garment, selectively activating the first mechanical energy application part (vibration) or the second mechanical energy application part (percussion or tapping). The design of the present invention allows the percussion device to flexibly adjust the treatment method according to the specific condition of the patient, for example, selectively activating the percussion device mode according to the location, area, and mucus accumulation of the lesion, to ensure the best airway clearance effect.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the percussion garment is a garment body generated in conjunction with the patient's body geometry, and the garment body is added with target vibration areas determined based on the corresponding patient's lung images, wherein the lung images are determined based on the patient's imaging results.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the tacking vest is equipped with a proximity sensor for determining whether the target vibration area comes into contact with the tacking device, a tacking sensor for collecting the vibration intensity and duration of the corresponding part when the target vibration area comes into contact with the tacking device, and a timer for collecting the duration of the tacking device acting on the target vibration area.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device that works in conjunction with the tapping garment is configured to determine its operating mode based on the degree of infection in each infected area as determined by the imaging results.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device further includes a central processing unit, which selectively activates either a first mechanical energy application section or a second mechanical energy application section based on feedback signals received from the tapping garment.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the central processing unit of the percussion device is capable of controlling the operating modes of the first mechanical energy application unit and the second mechanical energy application unit.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device also includes a communication interface capable of transmitting signals with the tapping vest.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device is configured to activate a first mechanical energy application unit to clear the airway in the target vibration area when the feedback signal from the tapping garment indicates that the target vibration area is the upper lobe of the lung.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device is configured such that when the feedback signal from the tapping garment indicates that the target vibration area is the middle lobe of the lung, the tapping mode of the second mechanical energy application unit is first activated, and then the first mechanical energy application unit is activated to clear the airway in the target vibration area.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device is configured such that when the feedback signal from the tapping garment indicates that the target vibration area is the lower lobe of the lung, the tapping working mode of the second mechanical energy application unit is first activated, and then the first mechanical energy application unit is activated to clear the airway in the target vibration area.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: This invention provides a percussion device for airway clearance, which works in conjunction with a percussion garment to intelligently switch working modes based on the patient's lung imaging analysis results. According to the patient's lung images, the percussion device can select appropriate percussion, tapping, or vibration modes based on the different infection levels indicated on the percussion garment for different lung lobes (such as the upper, middle, and lower lobes), reducing the irritation risk associated with existing technologies where family members or caregivers cannot accurately locate the affected area when performing expectoration procedures.

[0023] On the other hand, the percussion device can perform predetermined percussion operations according to the percussion pattern generated by the percussion garment. The vibration components on the percussion garment are arranged in an array to ensure coverage of multiple target vibration areas on the patient's chest and back. Furthermore, the various operating modes of the percussion device combine to improve the therapeutic effect. Specifically, the array-arranged vibration components and the localized enhancement of percussion / tapping significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the treatment. In addition, data from each treatment can be recorded for subsequent feedback and adjustment. For example, the percussion device can automatically adjust the force and frequency of percussion, tapping, or vibration based on the patient's treatment history and results, ensuring optimal results for each treatment. Existing percussion devices typically rely on operator experience and manual adjustments to determine the percussion position, which is prone to errors. The percussion garment of this invention incorporates the patient's lung imaging analysis results, and the percussion device matched with the garment can precisely locate each target vibration area. This positioning method of the percussion garment, which relies on the patient's imaging results, ensures the accuracy of the treatment and avoids errors that may arise from traditional manual operation. Especially for complex anatomical structures (such as the lower lobe airways), this precise positioning can significantly improve the therapeutic effect. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the interaction between the percussion device and the percussion vest in the percussion system provided by the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 A flowchart of the operation of the percussion device provided by the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the percussion garment provided by the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second mechanical energy application part provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 An application scenario diagram of the tapping system provided by this invention;

[0029] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the capacitive sensing marking of the target vibration area of ​​the percussion garment according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 A thermosensitive color-changing label is provided on the target vibration area of ​​the percussion garment according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the magnetic markings of the target vibration area of ​​a percussion garment according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the truth table for the execution operation of the percussion device provided by the present invention.

[0033] List of reference numerals

[0034] 100: Striking device; 110: First mechanical energy application unit; 111: High-frequency vibration module; 112: Vibration adjustment unit; 113: Vibration transmission device; 120: Second mechanical energy application unit; 121: Striking / tapping actuator; 122: Force adjustment unit; 123: Striking / tapping positioning device; 130: Central processing unit; 140: Storage module; 150: Communication interface; 160: Connecting arm; 200: Striking garment; 210: Target vibration area; 220: Analysis unit; 230: Proximity sensor; 240: Striking sensor; 250: Timer; 260: Capacitive sensing mark; 270: Thermosensitive color-changing mark; 280: Magnetic mark. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following is a detailed explanation with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] In this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "provided with," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings disclosed in the following embodiments are for the purpose of explaining the technical features of the invention, and not for limiting its implementable forms.

[0037] Example 1

[0038] This embodiment provides a tapping system for airway clearance, the tapping system including a tapper 100 and a tapping vest 200, such as... Figures 1-5 As shown. The tapping device 100 includes a first mechanical energy application section 110, which achieves airway clearance by vibration; and a second mechanical energy application section 120, which can selectively apply tapping or slapping to achieve further airway clearance. The tapping device 100 cooperates with the tapping vest 200, switching its operating mode according to the feedback signal given by the tapping vest 200. That is, the tapping device 100 selectively activates either the first mechanical energy application section 110 or the second mechanical energy application section 120, wherein, when the second mechanical energy application section 120 is activated, tapping or slapping is selectively applied.

[0039] The percussion device 100 is preferably integrated into a sputum suction machine, such as a multi-frequency vibration sputum suction machine. The percussion device 100 preferably also includes a central processing unit 130 (CPU), such as... Figure 1 As shown. The central processing unit 130 of the percussion device 100 receives feedback signals from the percussion garment 200. The central processing unit 130 of the percussion device 100 selectively activates either the first mechanical energy application unit 110 or the second mechanical energy application unit 120 based on the received feedback signals from the percussion garment 200. The central processing unit 130 of the percussion device 100 can control the operating modes of the first mechanical energy application unit 110 and the second mechanical energy application unit 120. The percussion device 100 preferably also includes a storage module 140 and a communication interface 150. The storage module 140 of the percussion device 100 is used to store the patient's treatment history (parameters and effects of each treatment, etc.), image analysis results from the percussion garment 200, and personalized treatment plans. The percussion device 100 and the percussion garment 200 exchange signals or data via a wired or wireless communication interface 150. The communication interface 150 can, for example, employ technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC. The percussion device 100 can also be connected to the percussion garment 200 via a USB data cable. When the tapping device 100 is connected to the tapping garment 200, the tapping pattern generated by the tapping garment 200 is sent to the tapping device 100.

[0040] According to this embodiment, the percussion garment 200 is a garment body generated based on the patient's body geometry. Target vibration regions 210, determined based on the patient's lung images, are added to the garment body. Specifically, the percussion garment 200 is a garment body customized based on the patient's body geometry, allowing it to closely fit the patient's chest and back. The target vibration regions 210 on the garment body, determined based on the patient's lung image analysis results, are divided based on the anatomical structure of the lung lobes, such as... Figure 3 As shown. According to a preferred embodiment, the target vibration region 210 of this embodiment includes an upper right lobe, a middle right lobe, a lower right lobe, an upper left lobe, and a lower left lobe, with the upper left lobe further including a subsegment called a "lingula". The target vibration region 210 on the tapping garment 200 is preferably marked by a special sensor or conductive fiber so that the tapping device 100 can identify and act on the target vibration region 210.

[0041] The shape of the percussion garment 200 is preferably similar to that of a vest or short-sleeved shirt. According to a preferred embodiment, the target vibration area 210 of the percussion garment 200 has a special capacitive sensing area sewn on it. The capacitive sensing area is made of a soft and comfortable material with a certain dielectric constant, such as an embedded sheet-like high-dielectric polymer composite material, forming a capacitive sensing marker 260, such as... Figure 6As shown, its shape and size are arranged according to human anatomy and the target vibration area 210. For example, circular or square sensing areas with an area of ​​approximately 1 to 10 square centimeters are set in the middle region of different lung lobes to ensure effective contact with the striking head of the tapping device 100 and generate a significant capacitance change. The striking head of the tapping device 100 is preferably equipped with a high-precision capacitance detection circuit, the core component of which is a microcontroller (MCU) and a capacitance-to-digital converter (CDC) chip connected to it. When the striking head of the tapping device 100 approaches the capacitance sensing area of ​​the tapping garment 200, the human body, the capacitance sensing area, and the detection circuit in the striking head of the tapping device form a capacitive coupling system. The CDC chip can convert the detected capacitance value change into a digital signal and transmit it to the MCU. The MCU pre-stores operation instruction sets corresponding to different capacitance value ranges. For example, the capacitance value in the range [C1, C2] is set to a gentle tapping mode with an operation duration of 10 seconds; the range [C3, C4] corresponds to a medium tapping mode with a duration of 15 seconds; and the range [C5, C6] corresponds to a strong tapping mode with a duration of 20 seconds. Based on the received capacitance digital signal, the MCU quickly determines the capacitance value range it belongs to using its internal algorithm, thereby determining the corresponding tapping mode and duration. After determining the operation mode and duration, the MCU sends a control signal to the actuator within the tapping head of the tapper 100. The actuator includes a small motor and an eccentric wheel or cam mechanism connected to it. By changing the motor's speed and rotation time, different intensity and duration tapping actions are achieved. For example, in gentle tapping mode, the MCU controls the motor to run at a low speed for 10 seconds, generating a gentle tapping force through the eccentric wheel; the medium and strong tapping modes correspondingly increase the motor speed and rotation time to provide a stronger tapping effect. In this embodiment, the MCU of the tapping head of the tapper 100 can be precisely calibrated to determine the reference range of capacitance values ​​under different human tissue characteristics, environmental temperature, humidity, and other conditions. These parameters are stored in the MCU of the tapping head of the tapper 100 so that the operation can be accurately controlled according to changes in capacitance values ​​during actual use. Simultaneously, certain adjustable parameter interfaces are reserved to further optimize the correspondence between capacitance values ​​and operating modes and durations based on specific patient feedback and treatment effects during clinical use, thereby improving the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the target vibration area 210 of the percussion garment 200 is provided with a marking made of a special thermosensitive color-changing material, namely a thermosensitive color-changing marking 270, such as... Figure 7As shown. The shape and color of the markings on the target vibration area 210 can be designed according to different body types or conditions. For example, a red circular area represents percussion (operation A), a yellow triangular area represents tapping (operation B), and a blue square area represents vibration (operation C). Before operation, the percussion device 100 scans the target vibration area 210 on the chest of the percussion garment 200 with an infrared thermometer, and determines the operation mode by identifying the shape and color of the color-changing area. This thermosensitive color-changing material only works when the percussion device 100 actively detects, and does not require the percussion garment 200 to provide feedback. The percussion head of the percussion device 100 preferably integrates an infrared temperature sensor, so as to accurately identify the color change of the thermosensitive color-changing material. The target vibration area 210 on the chest of the percussion garment 200 is divided into left and right sections according to human anatomy. The right side corresponds to the three lobes of the right lung (RUL, RML, RLL), and the left side corresponds to the two lobes and the lingula of the left lung (LUL, Lingula, LLL). When the patient puts on the percussion garment 200, the percussion device 100 first scans the target vibration area 210 of the chest. For example, scanning a blue square marker in the lower right lobe indicates that the area needs to be vibrated (operation C); scanning a yellow triangle marker in the middle right lobe indicates that the area needs to be tapped (operation B), and so on. According to a preferred embodiment, the target vibration area 210 of the percussion garment 200 contains embedded small squares of magnetic material, such as... Figure 8 As shown. The positions of the small squares containing magnetic material are precisely arranged according to the anatomical structure of the lung to ensure that each lobe or subsegment has a corresponding magnetic marker 280. For example, the right upper lobe has one small square with the N pole facing outward; the right middle lobe has two small squares with the S pole facing outward, arranged in a specific pattern (such as vertical arrangement); the right lower lobe has three small squares with the N pole facing outward, arranged in a triangle; the left upper lobe has one small square with the N pole facing outward; the left lower lobe has three small squares with the S pole facing outward, arranged in an inverted triangle; and the lingular segment has two small squares with the S pole facing outward, arranged horizontally.

[0043] The striking head of the tapping device 100 is preferably equipped with a magnetic sensor. When the striking head of the tapping device 100 approaches the target vibration area 210 of the tapping garment 200, the magnetic sensor starts to work and detects changes in the surrounding magnetic field. The magnetic sensor transmits the detected magnetic field information to the central processing unit 130 of the tapping device 100. The central processing unit 130 analyzes the direction, intensity, and arrangement of the magnetic field through algorithms to identify the current target vibration area 210 and its corresponding operating mode. If a small square with its N pole pointing outward is detected, it is identified as the upper right leaf; if two small squares with their S poles pointing outward are detected vertically, it is identified as the middle right leaf. Based on the identification results, the central processing unit 130 of the tapping device 100 selects the corresponding operating mode (such as tapping, slapping, or vibration) and drives the corresponding mechanical energy application unit through the control unit.

[0044] The operation of the tapper 100 in this embodiment is, for example, as follows: Figure 9 The truth table shown is used to ensure that each identification system (operation sequence, tap or vibration selection, time and intensity) is accurately mapped to the specific equipment operation. According to this embodiment, "tapping or vibration selection" means selecting the vibration mode of the first mechanical energy application unit 110 or selecting the tapping / slapping mode of the second mechanical energy application unit 120.

[0045] According to this embodiment, the tapping system has three marking systems: a first marking system for controlling the operation sequence, a second marking system for controlling the selection of tapping or vibration, and a third marking system for controlling time and intensity. The first marking system is the operation sequence marking system, where "00" represents no operation and the device is in standby mode; "01" represents a left-to-right operation sequence; "10" represents a right-to-left operation sequence; and "11" represents reserved for later use. The second marking system controls the selection of tapping or vibration, where "0" represents vibration operation and "1" represents tapping operation. The third marking system controls the selection of time and intensity, where "000" represents the shortest time and lowest intensity; "001" represents a short time and low intensity; "010" represents a medium time and medium intensity; "011" represents a long time and medium intensity; "100" represents a short time and high intensity; "101" represents a medium time and high intensity; and "110" represents a long time and high intensity.

[0046] This embodiment describes the interaction between a magnetic sensor and an identification system. The percussion head of the percussion device 100 is equipped with a highly sensitive magnetic sensor, which can detect changes in magnetic fields at different positions, directions, and intensities, and convert them into binary encoded signals. Digital logic gate circuits (such as AND gates, OR gates, NOT gates, etc.) are used to decode the binary encoded signals from the magnetic sensor to generate control signals. The central processing unit 130 of the percussion head controls the specific operating mode and parameters of the percussion device according to the decoded signals. The patient puts on the percussion garment 200, ensuring that the small magnetic material cubes in all target vibration areas 210 are correctly aligned with the corresponding positions on the chest and back. The percussion device 100 is powered on and enters standby mode, awaiting the next operation. When the percussion device 100 approaches the target vibration area 210 of the percussion garment 200, the magnetic sensor starts working, detecting changes in the surrounding magnetic field. The magnetic sensor transmits the detected magnetic field information to the central processing unit 130 of the percussion device 100. The central processing unit 130 analyzes the direction, intensity, and arrangement of the magnetic field through algorithms to identify the current target vibration area and its corresponding operating mode. Assuming the test result is "01", "1", or "010", it indicates that a moderate-duration, moderate-intensity percussion operation will be performed on the left side of the chest first. The central processing unit 130 controls the mechanical energy application unit of the percussion device 100 based on this information, performing the percussion operation according to the set time and intensity. The percussion device 100 can store data such as the time, intensity, and patient response of each treatment for subsequent analysis and optimization of the treatment plan.

[0047] Example 2

[0048] This embodiment is a further improvement of embodiment 1, and the repeated content will not be described again.

[0049] The tapping garment 200 is equipped with a proximity sensor 230 for determining whether the target vibration area 210 comes into contact with the tapper 100, a tapping sensor 240 for collecting the vibration intensity and duration of the corresponding part when the target vibration area 210 comes into contact with the tapper 100, and a timer 250 for collecting the duration of the tapper 100 acting on the target vibration area 210.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, an LED light is embedded within the target vibration area 210. When the tapper 100 approaches the target vibration area 210, the LED light illuminates to indicate the current working status of the tapper 100 to the operator or patient. The LED light has different colors to represent different working modes, such as blue for vibration, red for tapping, and green for patting. Furthermore, a progress indicator light is installed on the garment body to display the treatment progress in real time. For example, when the treatment of a certain target vibration area 210 is completed, the corresponding LED light turns off, and the corresponding LED light for the next target vibration area 210 to be treated turns on, allowing the tapper 100 to continue treating the next area.

[0051] Specifically, a proximity sensor 230 installed near the target vibration area 210 is used to determine whether the tapping device 100 is in contact with the garment body. When the tapping device 100 approaches the target vibration area 210, the proximity sensor 230 sends a signal to confirm that the tapping device 100 has started working. Simultaneously, the proximity sensor 230 can monitor the contact state between the tapping device 100 and the target vibration area 210 in real time, ensuring the accuracy of each treatment, i.e., ensuring that the tapping device 100 operates in the correct position, avoiding misoperation or interference with non-target areas. A tapping sensor 240 installed within the target vibration area 210 is used to collect the vibration intensity and duration generated when the tapping device 100 acts on the corresponding area. A timer 250 built into the tapping garment 200 is used to collect the duration of the tapping device 100 acting on the target vibration area 210. The timer 250 can record the duration of each treatment, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the treatment. Based on the feedback from the tapping sensor 240, the control unit of the tapping device 100 can dynamically adjust the tapping or slapping force. The timer 250 can also help the tapper 100 to perform the predetermined tapping operation in a predetermined tapping sequence at different times.

[0052] Based on the image analysis results, specific target vibration areas 210 are added to the body of the percussion garment 200. These areas are precisely determined based on the patient's lung images, ensuring that the percussion device 100 can accurately act on the areas requiring treatment.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, the tapping device 100, which cooperates with the tapping garment 200, is configured to determine its operating mode based on the degree of infection in each infected area determined by the imaging results.

[0054] The percussion garment 200 preferably also includes an analysis unit 220. The intelligent algorithm of the analysis unit 220 determines the operating mode of the percussion device 100 for each treatment based on image analysis results and feedback data from various sensors. The image analysis results include the degree, location, and infection level of mucus accumulation in each lung lobe. The operating mode of the percussion device 100 includes the activation timing of the first mechanical energy application section 110 and the second mechanical energy application section 120, as well as the vibration intensity, percussion force, and treatment duration of the first mechanical energy application section 110 and the second mechanical energy application section 120.

[0055] The analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 generates a percussion pattern based on the image analysis results, and the generated percussion pattern is sent to the percussion device 100. The percussion device 100 performs the corresponding operation according to the percussion pattern. The percussion garment 200 can dynamically adjust the percussion pattern based on real-time feedback from the sensors.

[0056] The analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 activates the target vibration areas 210 sequentially according to a pre-set percussion plan, and controls the timer 250 to start when the percussion device 100 contacts the target vibration area 210. The timer 250 automatically stops when the percussion device 100 leaves the target vibration area 210 or when a preset time limit is reached. The timer 250 continuously records the duration of the percussion device 100's action on each target vibration area 210 and sends this data to the analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 for analysis and storage. Specifically, the patient puts on the percussion garment 200, and the percussion device 100 is ready. The analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 determines the first target vibration area 210 according to the preset treatment plan. Before treatment begins, the progress indicator lights corresponding to all target vibration areas 210 are off, indicating that treatment has not yet started. When timer 250 starts, i.e., when the percussion device 100 begins to act on a target vibration area 210, the progress indicator light corresponding to that area illuminates. Different colors (such as red, green, blue, etc.) are typically used to indicate that treatment is in progress according to a predetermined pattern. Preferably, the progress indicator light displays the treatment progress in different ways based on the time recorded by timer 250. For example, as the treatment time increases, the light gradually brightens until it reaches maximum brightness, indicating that the treatment is about to be completed; or, the color of the light can change with the progress of the treatment, for example, from blue to green, indicating that the treatment is complete. When timer 250 stops, i.e., when the percussion device 100 has completed the treatment of the target vibration area 210, the progress indicator light corresponding to that target vibration area 210 turns off or changes to another color (such as green), indicating that the treatment of that area is complete. According to the treatment plan, the analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 controls the percussion device to automatically switch to the next target vibration area 210, repeating the above process until the treatment of all areas is completed.

[0057] The first mechanical energy application section 110 of the percussion garment 100 includes a high-frequency vibration module 111. The high-frequency vibration module 111 includes a vibration generator, a vibration adjustment unit 112, and a vibration transmission device 113. The vibration generator preferably consists of one or more small vibration motors capable of generating high-frequency vibrations (typically 5–25 Hz). The vibration motors are driven by compressed air or other power sources to generate rapid mechanical vibrations. The vibration adjustment unit 112 is responsible for adjusting the frequency, intensity, and duration of the vibration. The vibration adjustment unit 112 can dynamically adjust the vibration parameters based on feedback signals provided by the percussion garment 200 to adapt to different airway conditions and treatment needs. The vibration transmission device 113 transmits vibration energy from the vibration generator to the patient's body. The vibration transmission device 113 is, for example, a chest strap or other form of contact surface. The vibration generators are preferably arranged in an array on the percussion garment 200 so that individual vibration generators cover multiple target vibration areas 210 on the patient's chest and back. Preferably, each vibration generator is equipped with a position sensor to locate its position on the percussion garment 200. A position sensor is communicatively connected to the analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 to control the vibration generator to act on the target vibration area 210. Based on the percussion pattern generated from the patient's image analysis results, the analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200 sends a start command to the designated vibration generator. After receiving the command, the vibration generator begins to vibrate according to the preset vibration sequence, vibration frequency, vibration intensity, and vibration duration of each target vibration area 210. At this time, the percussion sensor 240 monitors the vibration force in real time and transmits the feedback signal to the analysis unit 220 of the percussion garment 200.

[0058] The second mechanical energy application unit 120 of the percussion device 100 includes a percussion / tapping module. The percussion / tapping module includes a percussion / tapping actuator 121, a force adjustment unit 122, and a percussion / tapping positioning device 123. The percussion / tapping actuator 121 preferably consists of a set of programmable robotic arms (connecting arms 160) or pneumatic hammers, capable of selectively applying percussion or tapping. The percussion actuator can be pneumatically or electrically driven to generate rhythmic mechanical impact force. The force adjustment unit 122 adjusts the force of the percussion or tapping. The force adjustment unit 122 dynamically adjusts the force based on feedback signals provided by the percussion garment 200 to adapt to different patients' airway conditions and treatment needs. The percussion / tapping positioning device 123 is used to locate the target vibration area 210 of the percussion or tapping. The percussion / tapping positioning device 123 preferably automatically adjusts the position of the percussion or tapping based on lung imaging analysis results provided by the percussion garment 200 to ensure the accuracy and targeting of the treatment. Preferably, the tapping / slapping actuator 121 is mounted on one or more AI-controlled connecting arms 160. The slapping actuator simulates the effect of a hand slapping with a relatively light mechanical impact. The connecting arm 160 of the tapping / slapping actuator 121 is equipped with a high-precision positioning system, such as electromagnetic induction technology and optical sensors, to determine the position of the target vibration area 210 on the tapping garment 200. Electromagnetic markers (such as microcoils or magnetic materials) can be embedded within the target vibration area 210 of the tapping garment 200, and an electromagnetic sensor is mounted on the connecting arm 160 of the actuator. When the actuator approaches the target area, the electromagnetic sensor can detect the presence of the electromagnetic marker and adjust the actuator's trajectory based on its position information. Specifically, a three-dimensional magnetic field environment is created by arranging multiple electromagnetic emitters inside the tapping garment 200. A magnetic field sensor is mounted on the connecting arm 160 of the tapping / slapping actuator 121, which can accurately locate the position of the target area based on changes in the magnetic field. This method can achieve high-precision positioning, and is particularly suitable for target area identification under complex anatomical structures.

[0059] Example 3

[0060] This embodiment is a further improvement of embodiment 1, and the repeated content will not be described again.

[0061] This embodiment provides another tapping system, which includes a tapping device 100 and a tapping garment 200. The tapping device 100 includes a first mechanical energy application part 110 that achieves airway clearance by vibration and a second mechanical energy application part 120 that can selectively apply tapping or slapping to clear the airway. The tapping device 100 cooperates with the tapping garment 200 and switches its operating mode according to the feedback signal given by the tapping garment 200. That is, the tapping device 100 selectively activates the first mechanical energy application part 110 or the second mechanical energy application part 120, wherein when the second mechanical energy application part 120 is activated, tapping or slapping is selectively applied.

[0062] According to this embodiment, the percussion device 100 is configured to activate the first mechanical energy application unit 110 to clear the airway of the target vibration area 210 when the feedback signal of the percussion garment 200 indicates that the target vibration area 210 is the upper lobe of the lung.

[0063] The upper lobe has relatively wide airways with a larger diameter, resulting in lower airflow resistance. The larger airway diameter means airflow can enter and exit the area more smoothly, reducing the likelihood of mucus retention. In the upper lobe, the shear force generated by high-frequency vibration can act more effectively on the airway walls, disrupting the adhesion between the mucus and the airway walls. Therefore, mucus is easily discharged under the shear force generated by high-frequency vibration and the propulsion and loosening effect of airflow. The first mechanical energy application unit 110 provides a uniform vibration distribution, for example, for the upper right and upper left lobes. The vibration generated by the first mechanical energy application unit 110 ensures that a large area of ​​mucus is loosened. Specifically, the upper lobe's airways are wider and more concentrated, allowing vibration to cover the entire upper lobe area, ensuring that all mucus is effectively loosened. Furthermore, the mucus in the upper lobe is typically thinner and has lower viscosity. The shear force of the vibration not only acts on the mucus surface but can also penetrate into the mucus interior, further disrupting the mucus structure, reducing its viscosity, and increasing its fluidity. Therefore, the first mechanical energy application unit 110 alone can effectively loosen and expel mucus from the airway of the upper lobe.

[0064] According to this embodiment, the tapping device 100 is configured such that when the feedback signal from the tapping garment 200 indicates that the target vibration area 210 is the middle lobe of the lung, the tapping working mode of the second mechanical energy application unit 120 is first activated, and then the first mechanical energy application unit 110 is activated to clear the airway of the target vibration area 210.

[0065] The airways in the middle lobe are relatively narrow, especially in the right middle lobe (the left lung has no middle lobe), with numerous airway branches and greater airflow resistance. Furthermore, the airways in the middle lobe have greater curvature, particularly in the right middle lobe, resulting in a more complex airway pathway. This structure makes it easier for mucus to accumulate in the narrow airway branches and at bends, forming mucus plugs and obstructing airway patency. Due to the narrowness of the airways in the middle lobe, high-frequency vibration alone may not be effective in loosening the mucus in these narrow branches, especially when the mucus is stubborn or has already formed a mucus plug. Because of the greater airway curvature, the shearing force of high-frequency vibration may not be evenly distributed across the entire airway wall, especially at bends, where mucus may still adhere to the airway wall. In such cases, stronger mechanical impact can be applied by tapping to break the adhesion between the mucus and the airway wall, helping to loosen this hard-to-reach mucus.

[0066] On the other hand, mucus in the middle lobe is often quite stubborn, especially in diseases such as bronchiectasis and chronic bronchitis. Mucus accumulation in the middle lobe is usually localized, concentrated in specific airway branches or areas. This allows percussion to act more precisely on these areas of mucus accumulation, producing a stronger local effect. Furthermore, percussion helps loosen this hard-to-reach mucus through gentle mechanical stimulation, thus avoiding excessive irritation to the airway and minimizing patient discomfort.

[0067] Percussion, as a preliminary step, rapidly loosens mucus in the middle lobe airways through gentle local mechanical stimulation, especially stubborn mucus or existing mucus plugs, creating conditions for subsequent high-frequency vibration. Building upon percussion, high-frequency vibration provides a uniform vibration distribution, further enhancing mucus flow and ensuring smooth drainage. High-frequency vibration can also slightly dilate the airways, increasing airflow velocity and helping mucus move more quickly into the larger airways. This embodiment treats the target area of ​​the middle lobe using a percussion followed by high-frequency vibration approach. Furthermore, the treatment plan can be flexibly adjusted according to the patient's specific condition. For example, for patients with more stubborn mucus, the force and frequency of percussion can be appropriately increased; for patients with thinner mucus, the force and frequency of percussion can be reduced, relying more on high-frequency vibration for airway clearance.

[0068] According to this embodiment, the percussion device 100 is configured such that when the feedback signal of the percussion garment 200 indicates that the target vibration area 210 is the lower lobe of the lung, the percussion working mode of the second mechanical energy application unit 120 is first activated, and then the first mechanical energy application unit 110 is activated to clear the airway of the target vibration area 210.

[0069] Compared to the middle lobe, the airways in the lower lobe are narrower, especially in the right and left lower lobes, where airway branching is more complex. Located at the base of the lungs, the lower lobes are prone to mucus accumulation due to gravity. Gravity promotes mucus movement towards the larger airways, but it can also cause the mucus to adhere more tightly to the airway walls, increasing the difficulty of loosening it. Due to gravity, mucus in the lower lobes is often quite stubborn and easily forms mucus plugs. This type of mucus is not easily loosened by simple high-frequency vibration; a stronger mechanical impact is needed to break its structure. Percussion can break the adhesion between the mucus and the airway walls through a stronger mechanical impact, ensuring that the mucus is fully loosened. In this embodiment, percussion uses direct mechanical impact to quickly loosen stubborn mucus or existing mucus plugs. This localized impact ensures that the mucus is fully loosened, creating better conditions for subsequent high-frequency vibration. Building upon percussion, high-frequency vibration can provide a uniform vibration distribution, further enhancing the fluidity of the mucus and ensuring that the loosened mucus can be smoothly expelled.

[0070] The percussion is forceful but short-lived, targeting only specific areas of mucus buildup. By first percussing and then using high-frequency vibration, mucus can be quickly loosened in a short time, avoiding excessive irritation to the airway. This combination reduces patient irritation and improves treatment comfort and safety, especially in cases like the lower lobes where the airway is narrower and mucus is more stubborn.

[0071] It should be noted that the specific embodiments described above are exemplary. Those skilled in the art can devise various solutions inspired by the disclosure of this invention, and these solutions all fall within the scope of this invention and its protection. Those skilled in the art should understand that this specification and its accompanying drawings are illustrative and do not constitute a limitation on the claims. The scope of protection of this invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents. This specification contains multiple inventive concepts; phrases such as "preferredly" and "according to a preferred embodiment" indicate that the corresponding paragraph discloses an independent concept. The applicant reserves the right to file divisional applications based on each inventive concept. Throughout the text, the feature introduced by "preferredly" is only an optional mode and should not be construed as mandatory. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to abandon or delete relevant preferred features at any time.

Claims

1. A panning system for airway clearance, the panning system comprising a panner (100) and a panning garment (200), characterized in that, The percussive device (100) comprises: a first mechanical energy application unit (110) for achieving airway clearance in a vibration mode; a second mechanical energy application unit (120) for selectively applying percussion or patting to achieve further airway clearance; The percussive device (100) cooperates with the percussion garment (200) to switch the working mode according to the feedback signal given by the percussion garment (200), i.e., selectively enabling the first mechanical energy application unit (110) or the second mechanical energy application unit (120), wherein when the second mechanical energy application unit (120) is enabled, percussion or patting is selectively applied; The percussion garment (200) is a garment body generated in combination with the patient's body geometry, and a target vibration area (210) determined according to the lung picture of the corresponding patient is added to the garment body, wherein the lung picture is determined according to the imaging result of the patient; The percussion garment (200) is provided with a proximity sensor (230) for judging whether the target vibration area (210) is in contact with the percussive device (100), a percussion sensor (240) for collecting the vibration intensity and duration generated by the corresponding part when the target vibration area (210) is in contact with the percussive device (100), and a timer (250) for collecting the duration of the action of the percussive device (100) on the target vibration area (210); The percussive device (100) cooperating with the percussion garment (200) is configured to determine its working mode according to the infection degree of each infected area determined by the imaging result; The percussive device (100) further comprises a communication interface (150) capable of realizing signal transmission with the percussion garment (200).

2. A percussion system for airway clearance according to claim 1, characterised in that, The percussive device (100) further comprises a central processing unit (130), and the central processing unit (130) of the percussive device (100) selectively enables the first mechanical energy application unit (110) or the second mechanical energy application unit (120) according to the received feedback signal of the percussion garment (200).

3. A percussion system for airway clearance according to claim 2, characterised in that, The central processing unit (130) of the percussive device (100) can control the working mode of the first mechanical energy application unit (110) and the second mechanical energy application unit (120).

4. A percussion system for airway clearance according to claim 1, characterised in that, The percussive device (100) is configured to enable the first mechanical energy application unit (110) to perform airway clearance on the target vibration area (210) when the feedback signal of the percussion garment (200) shows that the target vibration area (210) is the upper lobe of the lung.

5. A percussion system for airway clearance according to claim 1, wherein, The percussive device (100) is configured to first enable the patting working mode of the second mechanical energy application unit (120) and then enable the first mechanical energy application unit (110) to perform airway clearance on the target vibration area (210) when the feedback signal of the percussion garment (200) shows that the target vibration area (210) is the middle lobe of the lung.

6. A percussion system for airway clearance according to claim 1, wherein, The percussive device (100) is configured to: when the feedback signal of the percussive clothing (200) shows that the target vibration area (210) is the lower lobe of the lung, first enable the percussive working mode of the second mechanical energy applying part (120), and then enable the first mechanical energy applying part (110) to perform airway clearance on the target vibration area (210).

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