Compression Garment Device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to compression garments, and in particular to compression garments that enhance lymphatic and / or other bodily fluid circulation. The garment may include a compression actuator unit that can apply a pulling force to straps of the compression garment to apply compression to anatomical features of a user. The compression actuator unit is actuable by contraction of a wire made of a shape memory material. The compression actuator unit may include multiple levers that amplify the effect of the contraction of the wire to apply a wide range of compression forces to the user.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 308,667, filed February 10, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. All applications identified as having foreign or domestic priority in an Application Data Sheet filed with this application are incorporated by reference herein pursuant to 37 CFR 1.57.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to compression garments, and more particularly to compression garments for promoting lymphatic circulation. [Background technology]

[0003] Lymphedema is a medical condition in which excess fluid, such as lymph, builds up in the body. In some cases, this excess fluid can build up in certain areas of the body, such as the hands and feet, causing swelling (edema). If left untreated, a number of additional symptoms can occur, including infection, fatigue, limited range of motion, and skin / tissue hardening. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Lymphedema can be treated by promoting the drainage of fluids (such as lymphatic fluid) from an area of ​​the body. Described herein are garments and associated components (e.g., compression actuator units) that can promote fluid movement from an area of ​​the body. The garments and associated components can improve lymphatic flow, venous circulation, and / or fluid (such as arterial) circulation. The garments and associated components can be used for muscle recovery (e.g., minimizing muscle soreness, reducing edema after exercise, etc.). For example, a garment such as a sleeve can be placed on a user's extremities (e.g., arms, legs, feet, etc.) or other body parts (e.g., torso, head, neck, etc.). The garment can include one or more compression actuator units, also referred to as actuators, constrictors, etc. The one or more compression actuator units can be actuated to tighten or press the compression garment around a body part to promote fluid movement within the body. The one or more compression actuator units can be actuated simultaneously or sequentially. In some variations, the compression actuator unit may be programmed to perform compression therapy. In some variations, the compression actuator unit may be controlled by the wearer or a therapeutic assistant. In some variations, the compression actuator unit and / or the garment may include a bioimpedance sensing device to sense a characteristic, such as the volume of the body part worn by the garment and / or one or more other sensors. In some variations, the bioimpedance sensing device and / or one or more other sensors may provide feedback to the compression actuator unit and / or other devices in communication with the compression actuator unit that may be used to modify therapy.

[0005] The compression actuator unit may facilitate application of compression to an anatomical feature of the user. The compression actuator unit may be actuated to apply compression by contraction of a wire wrapped around a functional portion of the compression actuator unit. In some variations, the compression actuator unit may be actuated by applying heat or electrical input to a wire made of a shape memory material. One or more electrical inputs from a controller of the compression garment and / or the compression actuator unit may heat the wire, causing it to contract and actuate the compression actuator unit. Actuation of the compression actuator unit may tighten or compress one or more functional portions (e.g., one or more straps) of the compression garment around the user. Alternatively and / or in combination, compression can be applied by a motorized winding of a wire wound around a functional portion of one or more compression actuator units, which can actuate one or more compression actuator units and / or a flex frame assembly to apply compression to a user's limb or other anatomical feature. One or more compression actuator units can incorporate mechanisms such as levers to amplify the clamping or compressive force applied to the user via contraction of the wire.

[0006] In some variations, described herein is a garment that can be worn by a user to promote the flow of fluids in an anatomical feature of the user. The garment can include a plurality of straps that can be used to secure the garment to an anatomical feature of the user. The garment can include a plurality of compression actuator units. Each compression actuator unit can include a housing having an interior space. Each compression actuator unit can include one or more levers mounted within the interior space. The one or more levers can rotate. Each compression actuator unit can include a slide that can be pulled relative to the one or more levers to rotate the one or more levers. Each compression actuator unit can include a thread that can be moved by rotation of the one or more levers. The thread can be coupled to one of the straps of the compression garment. Each compression actuator unit can include a wire that can be wound around a portion of the housing and the slide. The wire can contract such that the slide is pulled relative to the one or more levers, thereby rotating the one or more levers to move the thread and pull the one of the straps to apply compression to the anatomical feature of the user.

[0007] In some variations, the sled may include a D-ring that may be coupled to one of the straps.

[0008] In some variations, the housing may include a number of grooves in which the wires can be received.

[0009] In some variations, the housing can include a cover and a base. An outer surface of the cover can include a groove in which the wire can be received, and an inner surface of the base can include a groove in which the wire can be received.

[0010] In some variations, each of the multiple compression actuator units can amplify the stroke length caused by the contraction of the wire by up to 1000%.

[0011] In some variations, the housing may include a slot disposed therein that is capable of receiving the thread therein.

[0012] In some variations, the slide may include one or more protrusions that can contact one or more levers to cause it to rotate.

[0013] In some variations, the slide may include a groove into which the wire can be received.

[0014] In some variations, the slide may include a slot that can receive the thread therethrough.

[0015] In some variations, the one or more levers may include a first lever with a recessed portion and a second lever with a raised portion, such that the raised portion of the second lever can pass over the recessed portion of the first lever to avoid interference between the first and second levers during rotation.

[0016] In some variations, the housing can include a base and a cover. The base can include two angled surfaces that are angled about an inflection point. The sled can slide on at least one of the two angled surfaces.

[0017] In some variations, the sled may include an engagement portion that can contact one or more levers.

[0018] In some variations, the garment may include a controller capable of applying an electrical input to the wires to increase the internal temperature of the wires to cause them to shrink.

[0019] In some variations, multiple actuator units may compress anatomical features of a user simultaneously or sequentially.

[0020] In some variations, described herein is a garment that can be worn by a user to promote the flow of fluids in the user's body through a compressive force. The garment can include a strap that can be positioned around an anatomical feature of the user. The actuator unit can include a housing that can include an interior space and a plurality of grooves that can receive a wire therein such that the wire wraps around a functional feature of the housing. The actuator unit can include a first lever disposed within the interior space. The first lever is rotatable. The actuator unit can include a slide that can be pulled against the first lever by contraction of the wire to rotate the first lever. The actuator unit can include a thread that is at least partially disposed within the interior space of the housing and coupled to a strap of the compression garment. The thread can be moved by rotation of the first lever, thereby pulling the strap to apply a compressive force to the anatomical feature of the user.

[0021] In some variations, the housing can include a cover and a base. The plurality of grooves can be disposed on an outer surface of the cover and an inner surface of the base.

[0022] In some variations, the compression actuator unit can amplify the stroke length caused by the contraction of the wire by up to 1000%.

[0023] In some variations, the housing may include a slot disposed therein that is capable of receiving the thread therein.

[0024] In some variations, the slide may include one or more protrusions that can contact the first lever to cause it to rotate.

[0025] In some variations, the slide may include a groove into which the wire can be received.

[0026] In some variations, the slide may include a slot into which the sled may be received.

[0027] In some variations, the actuator unit may include a second lever disposed within the interior space. The slide may be pulled against the second lever by contraction of the wire to rotate the second lever. The first lever may include a recessed portion and the second lever may include a raised portion. The raised portion of the second lever may pass above the recessed portion of the first lever to avoid interference between the first and second levers during rotation.

[0028] In some variations, the housing includes a base and a cover. The base can include two angled surfaces that are angled about an inflection point. The sled is slidable on at least one of the two angled surfaces.

[0029] In some variations, the sled may include an engagement portion that is contactable with the first lever and the second lever.

[0030] In some variations, the actuator unit may include a controller capable of applying an electrical input to the wire to increase the internal temperature of the wire to cause it to contract.

[0031] In some variations, an actuator unit is described herein. The actuator unit may include a housing having an interior space and a number of grooves capable of receiving a wire therein, whereby the wire wraps around a functional portion of the housing. The actuator unit may include one or more levers disposed within the interior space. The one or more levers are rotatable. The actuator unit may include a slide that may be pulled against the one or more levers by contraction of the wire to rotate the one or more levers. The actuator unit may include a thread at least partially disposed within the interior space of the housing. The thread is movable by rotation of the one or more levers. The one or more levers may amplify the tensile force caused by contraction of the wire. The actuator unit may be incorporated into a compression garment that may be worn by a user.

[0032] In some variations, a garment can be worn over an anatomical feature of a user to promote fluid flow within the anatomical feature. The garment can include a strap wrapable around the anatomical feature of a user. The garment can include a compression actuator unit. The compression actuator unit can include a housing having an internal cavity. The compression actuator unit can include a thread disposed within the internal cavity. The thread can be coupled to the strap. The compression actuator unit can include one or more levers rotatably coupled to the housing and disposed within the internal cavity. The compression actuator unit can include a slide disposed at least partially outside the internal cavity. The compression actuator unit can include a wire wound around the housing and a portion of the slide. The wire can pull the slide toward the inside of the housing to push the one or more levers, rotate the one or more levers to push and translate the thread within the internal cavity, and pull the strap to apply compression to the anatomical feature of a user.

[0033] In some variations, the housing may include a number of grooves in its exterior surface for retaining the wires.

[0034] In some variations, the slide may include grooves in a portion of the slide disposed outside the interior cavity. The grooves may hold the wires.

[0035] In some variations, the portion of the slide disposed outside the interior cavity may include a curved surface.

[0036] In some variations, rotation of one or more levers can displace the sled a greater distance than in a slide.

[0037] In some variations, the sled may travel a distance ten times greater than in a slide.

[0038] In some variations, the one or more levers may include a first lever and a second lever.

[0039] In some variations, the first and second levers may be arranged in an overlapping configuration.

[0040] In some variations, the first and second levers can be rotated into an X configuration.

[0041] In some variations, one or more of the levers may include a free end having a rounded feature.

[0042] In some variations, the compression actuator unit can include a first rod disposed in a slot of the sled, and the strap can be wrapped around the first rod to couple the strap to the sled.

[0043] In some variations, the compression actuator unit may include a second rod around which the strap may wrap before exiting the housing.

[0044] In some variations, the second rod may be biased by one or more springs in a direction opposite to the direction of translation of the thread within the internal cavity upon contraction of the wire.

[0045] In some variations, the compression actuator unit may include a controller that may drive electrical current through the wires.

[0046] In some variations, the garment may include multiple straps and multiple compression actuator units.

[0047] In some variations, an actuator unit is described herein. The actuator unit may include a housing having an internal cavity. The actuator unit may include a thread disposed within the internal cavity. The thread may be coupled to a strap wrapped around an anatomical feature of the user. The actuator unit may include one or more levers rotatably coupled to the housing and disposed within the internal cavity. The actuator unit may include a slide disposed at least partially outside the internal cavity. The actuator unit may include a wire wound around a portion of the housing and a slider. When the wire is contracted, the slide may be pulled toward the inside of the housing to push the one or more levers to rotate the one or more levers, which may push and translate the thread within the internal cavity, and pull the strap to compress the anatomical feature of the user. The wire may be contracted by winding the wire with a motor. The wire may be contracted by passing an electric current through the wire.

[0048] In some variations, the housing may include a number of grooves in its exterior surface for retaining the wires.

[0049] In some variations, the slide may include grooves in a portion of the slide disposed outside the interior cavity. The grooves may hold the wires.

[0050] In some variations, the portion of the slide disposed outside the interior cavity may include a curved surface.

[0051] In some variations, rotation of one or more levers can displace the sled a greater distance than in a slide.

[0052] In some variations, the sled may travel a distance ten times greater than in a slide.

[0053] In some variations, the one or more levers may include a first lever and a second lever.

[0054] In some variations, the first lever and the second lever may be arranged in an overlapping configuration.

[0055] In some variations, the first and second levers can be rotated into an X configuration.

[0056] In some variations, the first and second levers may be arranged in a scissors configuration.

[0057] In some variations, one or more of the levers may include a free end having a rounded feature.

[0058] In some variations, the compression actuator unit can include a first rod disposed in a slot of the sled, and the strap can be wrapped around the first rod to couple the strap to the sled.

[0059] In some variations, the compression actuator unit may include a second rod around which the strap may wrap before exiting the housing.

[0060] In some variations, the second rod may be biased by one or more springs in a direction opposite to the direction of translation of the thread within the internal cavity upon contraction of the wire.

[0061] In some variations, the compression actuator unit may include a controller that may drive electrical current through the wires.

[0062] In some variations, an actuator unit is described herein. The actuator unit may include a housing that may include a helical groove that may receive a wire therein. The actuator unit may include a D-ring that may be coupled to a strap wrapped around an anatomical feature of a user. The D-ring may be coupled to the wire. Upon contraction of the wire, the D-ring is translatable toward the housing to tension the strap to compress the anatomical feature of a user. In some variations, the D-ring may be biased away from the housing by one or more springs.

[0063] In some variations, the actuator unit may include a controller configured to apply an electrical current to the wires to cause them to contract.

[0064] In some variations, the wire may be contracted by passing an electric current through the wire.

[0065] In some variations, the wires can be made from a shape memory material.

[0066] In some variations, an actuator unit is described herein. The actuator unit may include a housing having an internal cavity. The actuator unit may include a spool capable of holding a strip of material therein. The spool may be disposed within the housing and capable of winding the strip of material around an anatomical feature of a user. The actuator unit may include a motor capable of rotating the spool to wind the strip of material for compressing the anatomical feature of a user.

[0067] In some variations, the spool can be coupled to a gear and the motor can rotate a motor gear connected to the gear to wind up the strip of material.

[0068] In some variations, the actuator unit can include a second motor and a second spool disposed within the housing capable of holding the strip of material therein, the second motor capable of rotating the second spool to wind up the strip of material for compressing an anatomical feature of a user.

[0069] In some variations, the second motor and the second spool can be disposed within a housing capable of holding the second strip of material therein, and the second motor can rotate the second spool to wind up the second strip of material for compressing an anatomical feature of a user.

[0070] In some variations, the second spool can be coupled to a second gear, and the second motor can rotate a second motor gear connected to the second gear to rotate the second spool.

[0071] In some variations, the garment and / or actuator unit may improve venous circulation, improve fluid circulation, aid in muscle recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and / or reduce post-exercise swelling.

[0072] In some variations, a flex frame assembly is described herein. The flex frame may include a base. The flex frame may include one or more springs. The flex frame may include a plurality of guide mechanisms. Some of the guide mechanisms may be disposed on the base, and a guide mechanism of the plurality of guide mechanisms may be connected to one or more springs, such that the one or more springs are disposed between the one guide mechanism and the base. The flex frame may include a wire wound around the plurality of guide mechanisms. The wire may contract, pulling the one guide mechanism toward the base and deflecting the one or more springs to shorten the flex frame assembly.

[0073] In some variations, the flex frame assembly can be incorporated into a compression garment that can be worn over an anatomical feature of a user. Foreshortening of the flex frame assembly can apply a compressive force against the anatomical feature of a user.

[0074] In some variations, the one or more springs may include four springs arranged in series between the base and one guide mechanism.

[0075] In some variations, the wire is contractible by passing an electric current through it.

[0076] In some variations, the wires can be made from a shape memory material.

[0077] In some variations, the flex frame assembly can apply compression against anatomical features of the user upon contraction of the wires, thereby improving venous circulation, improving fluid circulation, aiding in muscle recovery, reducing muscle soreness, and / or reducing swelling after exercise.

[0078] Neither the above summary nor the following detailed description is intended to limit or define the scope of protection, which is defined by the claims. Furthermore, reference is made herein to the treatment of lymphedema. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate, upon reading this disclosure as a whole, that the devices (e.g., garments, compression actuator units, etc.), methods, systems, components, etc. described herein may be used for other purposes, in particular for the treatment of lymphedema. For example, the garments described herein may be worn by athletes to increase blood circulation to aid in recovery after physical activity. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand, upon reading this disclosure in its entirety, that the devices (e.g., garments, compression actuator units, etc.), methods, systems, components, etc. described herein may be utilized in humans and animals. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0079] The above-mentioned and other features of the embodiments described herein are explained below with reference to the drawings of the embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the scope of protection. Various features of the different disclosed embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments that are part of this disclosure. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates the lymphatic system of the body. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A shows a compression garment with multiple compression actuator units. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B shows the internal temperature (in degrees Celsius) of the Nitinol alloy wire and the corresponding strain percentage. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A shows the external appearance of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows the external appearance of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows the exterior of the base of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows an external view of the base of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A shows the sled view of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B shows the sled view of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows the sliding appearance of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows the sliding appearance of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A shows the appearance of the first lever of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B shows the appearance of the first lever of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A shows the appearance of the second lever of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 8B]FIG. 8B shows the appearance of the second lever of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A shows the appearance of the cover of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B shows the exterior of the cover of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A shows the appearance of the sled placed in the slot of the base. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B shows the appearance of the sled placed in the slot of the base. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C shows the first and second levers mounted on the base. [Figure 10D] FIG. 10D shows slides positioned on opposite ends of the base. [Figure 10E] FIG. 10E shows a view of a modified end of the compression actuator unit 206 with the cover removed. [Figure 10F] FIG. 10F shows a view of a modified end of the compression actuator unit 206 with the cover removed. [Figure 10G] FIG. 10G shows a view of a modified end of the compression actuator unit 206 with the cover removed. [Figure 10H] FIG. 10H shows the compression actuator unit with the cover removed. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A shows the compression actuator unit with the lever in a partially extended intermediate actuation configuration. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows the squeezing actuator unit with the lever in a folded, unactuated configuration. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C shows the compression actuator unit with the lever in a folded, unactuated configuration. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D shows the compression actuator unit in an actuated configuration with the lever fully extended, corresponding to the full stroke length of the unit. [Figure 11E]FIG. 11E shows the compression actuator unit in an actuated configuration with the lever fully extended corresponding to the full stroke length of the unit. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A shows a variation of the actuation mechanism of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B shows a variation of the actuation mechanism of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a strip of material. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A shows a strip folded to form a loop, which is placed through an opening in the thread with the pin in the loop. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B shows the pin and loop secured within the opening of the sled. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A shows the fastener placed through the cover. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B shows the lever coupled to a fastener located within a deep pocket in the cover. [Figure 15C] FIG. 15C shows the lever coupled to a fastener that sits within a shallow pocket in the cover. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A shows slides positioned on opposite ends of the cover. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B shows the slide and lever temporarily taped in place. [Figure 16C] FIG. 16C shows a view of the cover with wires routed through the grooves. [Figure 16D] FIG. 16D shows another view of the cover with wires routed through the grooves. [Figure 16E] FIG. 16E shows a view of the cover with the threads attached. [Figure 16F] FIG. 16F shows a view of the base aligned with the cover for bonding. [Figure 16G] FIG. 16G shows a view of the base aligned with the cover for bonding. [Figure 16H]FIG. 16H shows the base positioned on the cover. [Figure 16J] FIG. 16J shows an exterior view of a variation of the assembled compression actuator unit. [Figure 16K] FIG. 16K shows an exterior view of a variation of the assembled compression actuator unit. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows a compression actuator unit having a spiral channel on the surface of the housing. [Figure 18A] FIG. 18A shows the appearance of a modified compression actuator unit equipped with a motor. [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B shows the appearance of a modified compression actuator unit equipped with a motor. [Figure 19A] FIG. 19A shows a variation of the compression actuator unit with two motors. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B shows a variation of the compression actuator unit with two motors. [Figure 19C] FIG. 19C shows a variation of the compression actuator unit with two motors. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows a flex frame assembly. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21A shows the appearance of a modified example of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B shows the appearance of a modified example of the compression actuator unit. [Figure 22A] FIG. 22A shows the appearance of a modified housing. [Figure 22B] FIG. 22B shows the appearance of a modified housing. [Figure 23A] FIG. 23A shows a view of an alternative embodiment of the assembled thread and strap. [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B shows an alternative view of the assembled thread and strap. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A shows the appearance of a variation of the slide. [Figure 24B]FIG. 24B shows the appearance of a modified version of the slide. [Figure 25A] FIG. 25A shows the appearance of a modified lever. [Figure 25B] FIG. 25B shows the appearance of a modified lever. [Figure 26A] FIG. 26A shows a view of a variation of the sled and strap assembled and positioned within the housing. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B shows a view of a variation of the sled and strap assembled and positioned within the housing. [Figure 26C] FIG. 26C shows a cross section of a housing with a spring biased receiver with an assembled sled and strap inside. [Figure 26D] FIG. 26D shows the housing transparent to reveal the sled, strap, receiver, and spring. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 shows the housing with the lever in an actuated, extended configuration to translate the sled and tension the strap. [Figure 28A] FIG. 28A shows the squeeze actuator unit with the top (eg, cover) removed, showing the slide being pressed against the lever, causing the lever to rotate to an extended (eg, deployed) configuration. [Figure 28B] FIG. 28B shows the squeeze actuator unit with the top (eg, cover) removed, showing the slide being pressed against the lever, causing the lever to rotate to an extended (eg, deployed) configuration. [Figure 29A] FIG. 29A shows a cross section of a compression actuator unit in an unactuated, folded configuration. [Figure 29B] FIG. 29B shows a cross section of the compression actuator unit in an actuated and expanded configuration. [Figure 30A] FIG. 30A shows the appearance of the compression actuator unit in an unactuated folded configuration, with the wires and slides wrapped around the housing shown in transparent form. [Figure 30B]FIG. 30B shows the appearance of the compression actuator unit in an actuated, expanded configuration, with the wires and slides wrapped around the housing, shown transparent. [Figure 30C] FIG. 30C shows the appearance of the compression actuator unit in an unactuated folded configuration, with the wires and slides wrapped around the housing shown in transparent form. [Figure 30D] FIG. 30D shows the appearance of the compression actuator unit in an actuated, expanded configuration, with the wires and slides wrapped around the housing, shown transparently. [Figure 31A] FIG. 31A shows the compression actuator unit in a transparent state, with the wires and slide wrapped around the housing. [Figure 31B] FIG. 31B shows the wires in a wrapped configuration, but does not show the remainder of the compression actuator unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0080] Although specific embodiments and examples are described below, the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments and / or uses and obvious variations and equivalents thereof. Thus, although this disclosure describes many embodiments in the context of treating lymphedema, none of the embodiments and their variations or equivalents should be limited to treating lymphedema as described herein.

[0081] The compression garment systems, devices, and methods described herein may be used and / or modified for use with the systems and methods described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0000677, filed Aug. 15, 2019, by Pamplin et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The compression garment system may include one or more compression actuator units, also referred to as actuators, constrictors, etc. The one or more compression actuator units may be operable to tighten or compress the compression garment around a body portion to facilitate fluid movement within the body. The compression actuator units may compress via a wire wound around the functional portion. In some variations, the compression can be applied by applying heat or electrical input to a wire made of a shape memory material. The wire can be made of a shape memory material configured to change shape in response to a stimulus (such as a temperature change), such as an alloy, nickel-titanium (nitinol) alloy (a preferred example), and / or copper-aluminum-nickel alloy or any other alloy (e.g., Fe-Mn-Si, Cu-Zn-Al, Cu-Al-Ni, etc.), shape memory polymers and composites. Electrical input from one or more controllers of the compression garment and / or compression actuator units can heat the wire, thereby contracting the wire and actuating the compression actuator units. Actuation of the compression actuator units can tighten and / or compress one or more functional areas of the compression garment (e.g., one or more straps) around the user. Alternatively and / or in combination, compression can be applied by a motor winding a wire wrapped around a functional area of ​​one or more compression actuator units, which can actuate the compression actuator units to apply compression to a limb or other anatomical feature of the user. One or more of the compression actuator units may incorporate a mechanism such as a lever to amplify the contraction of the wire.

[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates the lymphatic system of a user's body 100. The lymphatic system is an organ system that is part of both the circulatory system and the immune system. The lymphatic system includes a network of lymphatic vessels or channels 102 and lymph nodes 104, which, among other things, serve to recirculate blood and lymph through the human body. As described herein, lymphedema is a medical condition in which excess fluid, such as lymph, accumulates in areas of the body, such as the limbs, causing swelling (i.e., edema). If left untreated, many additional adverse symptoms can occur.

[0083] 2A illustrates a compression garment 200 that can be used to move fluids in the body, which may include treating lymphedema. As illustrated, the compression garment 200 is placed on a limb, such as an arm 202 and a leg 203. However, the compression garment 200 may be worn on any anatomical feature of a user. The compression garment 200 may include one or more straps 204 for attaching the compression garment 200 to a user. One or more straps 204 and / or other features of the compression garment 200 may be coupled to a compression actuator unit 206 and / or a compression actuator unit 406 and wrapped around an anatomical feature of a user. For example, the compression actuator unit 206 may include one or more, such as two, D-rings 208. The straps 204 may be coupled (e.g., by being threaded) through the D-rings 208. Actuation of the compression actuator unit 206 causes the D-rings 208 to move towards each other, thereby tensioning the straps 204 and compressing a user's limbs or other anatomical features.

[0084] The compression garment 200 may include one or more compression actuator units 206. The one or more compression actuator units 206 may be distributed along a length of the compression garment 200 such that, when worn, the compression actuator units 206 are distributed along a length of a user's limb and / or other anatomical feature. The compression actuator units 206 may apply compression forces simultaneously, sequentially, and / or in other configurations. For example, in some cases, bodily fluids may collect in distal portions of a user's limb. In some variations, the compression actuator units 206 can apply a compression force to the limbs sequentially, starting with the distally located compression actuator unit 206 and then the proximal compression actuator unit 206, thereby effectively moving fluid toward the torso of the user. In some variations, the compression garment 200 can include one or more flexible regions 210 that are not provided with compression actuator units 206. The flexible regions 210 can be configured to be positioned around the user's joints (e.g., ankles, wrists, knees, elbows, etc.) to facilitate user movement. In some variations, the flexible regions 210 can be made from a flexible material.

[0085] As described herein, the compression actuator unit 206 may be actuated by a number of techniques. In some variations, the compression actuator unit 206 may be actuated by applying heat and / or electrical input to wires, such as wires made of a shape memory material, such as Nitinol, that may cause the wires to contract. By precisely controlling the internal temperature of the wires, the compression actuator unit 206 may apply a known pulling force, e.g., tension, to exert a predetermined gradient of pressure on the user. Figure 2B is a graph showing the internal temperature (°C) of a Nitinol alloy wire and the corresponding strain percentage.

[0086] 3A and 3B show different views of the compression actuator unit 206, also referred to as an actuator unit, constrictor, tension unit, etc. The compression actuator unit 206 may have a curved perimeter and / or contour that may correspond to the curved surface of a user's limb and / or other anatomical feature. The compression actuator unit 206 may include a housing 212. The housing 212 may include a cover 214 and a base 216, which may be coupled together, such as by a number of fasteners 230, such as rivets, bolts, screws, etc., to accommodate one or more components therein.

[0087] The cover 214 may include an exterior surface 215 that may include one or more features for receiving a wire or the like therein. For example, the exterior surface 215 may include a recess 224 therein. The recess 224 may receive a bridge 238 in which one or more (e.g., two) leads 226 are disposed. The leads 226 may be shape memory alloy (SMA) leads. The SMA leads 226 may be the beginning portion of a wire or may be coupled to a wire or the like, such as a shape memory material or alloy wire. The SMA leads 226 may be connected to the bridge 238 by one or more fasteners 228, which may be used to couple the bridge 238 to the cover 214. The SMA leads 226 may be connected to a controller, such as a microcontroller, which may apply an electrical input and / or heat to the SMA leads 226, thereby heating the wire or the like. Heating the wire may cause it to contract, as described herein.

[0088] The exterior surface 215 may include one or more first channels or grooves 222 therein extending from the recess 224. Wires or the like may be routed from the SMA leads 226 through the first channels 222 to a first slide 236, also referred to as a slider. The first slide 236 may be disposed between the cover 214 and the base 216. The first slide 236 may extend from the inside to the outside of the housing 212. 3B, wires or the like can be routed around the first slide 236 through a channel or groove 240 in the first slide 236 and through a first opening 246 in the base 216. Wires or the like can be routed through the inside of the housing 212 via a channel or groove in the inner surface of the base 216 and out the inside of the housing 212 through a second opening 246 opposite the first opening 246. 3A, the wires may then be routed around a second slide 236 on the opposite side of the first slide 236 through a channel or groove 240 and into a second channel 220. The wires may then be routed through the second channel 220 and terminated in an SMA lead 226 secured by a fastener 230 in a recess 218 in the outer surface 215 of the cover 214. The compression actuator unit 206 may include one or more wires routed in a similar manner. As shown, the compression actuator unit 206 can be used with at least two wires or the like. One wire runs from the SMA lead 226 located in the recess 224 through the first channel 222, through a channel 240 around the first slide 236, into the inside of the housing 212 through a first opening 246 in the base 216, through a channel on the inner surface of the base 216, out of the housing 212 through a second opening 246, through the channel 240 around the second slider 236, and through the second channel 220 to the SMA lead 226 located in the recess 218. Another wire can be similarly routed and may be in a mirror image configuration as shown.

[0089] When an electrical input is applied to the wires, the wires can contract, thereby moving the slides 236 toward each other and / or within the housing 212. A gap 336 can be provided between the slide 236 and the cover 214, and as the wires contract, the gap 336 can become smaller. In some variations, the slide 236 may move further into the housing 212 as the wire contracts. Movement of the slide 236 causes corresponding inward movement of the D-ring 208, which may tension straps and / or other features of a compression garment attached to the D-ring 208 and apply a compressive force against a user's limb or other anatomical feature.

[0090] In some variations, the D-ring 208 can be integral with the sled 209. The sled 209 can have the D-ring 208 on one end that extends outside the housing 212 and an engagement portion on an opposite end disposed inside the housing 212. As shown in FIG. 3B, the sled 209 can include a tongue 242 that extends from the D-ring 208 through a gap 244 in the base 216 to the engagement portion.

[0091] The compression actuator unit 206 may include multiple levers that may be disposed within the housing 212. The slide 236 may be moved by directly or indirectly contacting the multiple levers. The levers, in turn, may be moved by directly or indirectly contacting the engagement portion of the thread 209 disposed inside the housing 212, thereby moving the two D-rings 208 toward each other. The levers may amplify the movement of the slide 236 to move the D-ring 208 a greater distance than the slide 236. The total movement of the D-ring 208 may be referred to as a stroke length, which may be at least zero to 200 mm. The levers may amplify the stroke length up to 1000% compared to the movement of the slide 236, thereby the compression actuator unit 206 generates a pulling force of at least 200 N and / or a pressure of at least 200 mmHg.

[0092] 4A and 4B show different appearances of the base 216. As shown in FIG. 4A, the base 216 can have a curved outer surface 219 and can be configured to curve around the wearer's anatomy (e.g., a limb). As shown in FIG. 4B, the base 216 can have an inner surface 217. The inner surface 217 can include two sloped surfaces that are angled relative to one another about a bend point 256. In some variations, the base 216 may be of a mirror image configuration with respect to the bend point 256. The inner surface 217 may include one or more (e.g., two) channels 254 therein. The channels 254 may connect with the openings 246 located on either side of the base 216, thereby allowing wires or the like to be routed from a first opening 246 through the channels 254 to a second opening 246.

[0093] The base 216 may include one or more tabs 248, also referred to as protrusions, sidewalls, flanges, etc. The tabs 248 may be configured to be inserted into corresponding gaps in the cover 214 to aid in positioning the cover 215 relative to the base 216 during assembly and / or to prevent movement between the base 216 and the cover 214 during use. The tabs 248 may extend from the inner surface 217. The tabs 248 may be centered along a bend 256 between two angled surfaces of the inner surface 217.

[0094] The base 216 may include a number of mounting portions 252. A number of levers may be coupled to the base 216 at the mounting portions 252 by fasteners 230. For example, the mounting portions 252 may include a number of holes 250. The levers may have holes that are coaxially aligned with the holes 250 in the mounting portions 252. The fasteners 230 may be inserted through the cover 214, through the holes in the levers, and through the holes 250 in the mounting portions 252 to couple the base 216, the levers, and the cover 214. In some variations, the fastener 230 can be secured with a threaded connection by threading the holes 250. In some variations, the fastener 230 can be a rivet that can be secured in place. In some variations, a nut can be used to secure the fastener 230 in place.

[0095] The base 216 can include slots 258. One slot 258 can be disposed on one angled surface of the inner surface 217 and the other slot 258 can be disposed on the other angled surface of the inner surface 217. The slots 258 can have a width corresponding to a width of the tongue 242 of the sled 209 to receive the tongue 242 therein. As described herein, the tongue 242 of the sled 209 can extend through the gap 244 of the base 216 and into the slot 258 disposed on the angled surface of the inner surface 217. During operation, the tongue 242 of the sled 209 can slide within the slot 258.

[0096] 5A and 5B show different views of the sled 209. As described herein, the sled 209 may have a D-ring 208, also referred to as a ring, coupler, interface, etc. The D-ring 208 may be coupled to a strap or other feature of a compression garment configured to be tensioned or pulled to compress an anatomical feature of a user. In some variations, the strap is passed through the D-ring 208. The sled 209 may include an engagement portion 260, also referred to as an anchor, contact portion, hook, catch, or the like. A lever as described herein may contact and move the engagement portion 260 to slide the sled 209 within the slot 258. The engagement portion 260 may include a protrusion 261, which may be an angled protrusion that helps provide a stable contact surface for the lever. A tongue 242 may extend between the engagement portion 260 and the D-ring 208.

[0097] 6A and 6B show different views of the slide 236. As described herein, the slide 236 may include a curved surface 262 that may extend outside the housing 212 when the slide 236 is disposed between the cover 214 and the base 216. A channel 240 through which wires or the like may be routed may be provided in the curved surface 262. The slide 236 may include a slot 264 that may be sized to allow the tongue 242 to pass through. The slide 236 may include one or more protrusions 268, also referred to as bumps, raised surfaces, or the like, that may contact and push against a portion of a lever during actuation. During actuation, the wires or the like may contract to pull the slide 236 inwardly, causing the protrusions 268 to contact and push against the lever. The lever may rotate to push against the engagement portion 260 of the sled 209, which may pull the D-ring 208 inwardly, thereby tensioning the straps and / or other features of the compression garment attached to the D-ring 208. The slide 236 may include a curved recess 270 to provide clearance for the lever to rotate during actuation. The slide 236 may include a gap or recess 266 to provide clearance for the fastener 228.

[0098] 7A and 7B show different views of the first lever 232, also referred to as an arm, rim, member, etc. The first lever 232 may include a connecting portion 274 that is attachable to the mounting portion 252 of the base 216. The connecting portion 274 may have a hole 276 therethrough to facilitate coupling to the base 216 and the cover 214 by the fastener 230. The first lever 232 may include a recess 278 that allows the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 to cross each other without interference. The first lever 232 may extend at an angle from the connecting portion 274.

[0099] 8A and 8B show different views of the second lever 235, also referred to as an arm, limb, member, etc. The second lever 234 may include a connecting portion 274 that is attachable to the mounting portion 252 of the base 216. The connecting portion 274 may have a hole 276 therethrough to facilitate coupling to the base 274 and the cover 214 by the fastener 230. The second lever 234 may include a ridge 272 that allows the second lever 234 and the first lever 232 to cross each other without interference. The second lever 234 may extend at an angle from the connecting portion 274.

[0100] 9A and 9B show different appearances of the cover 214. As shown in FIG. 9A, the cover 214 may include a curved outer surface 215 configured to face away from the skin of a user when the user wears the compression garment. The cover 214 may include a recess 218 and a recess 224 in the outer surface 215 that may accommodate the leads 226. The cover 214 may include a first channel 222 and a second channel 220 through which wires or the like may be routed across the outer surface 215. The cover 214 may include a recess 284, also referred to as a gap or receiving area, in which the slide 236 may be received. The recess 284 may be located on both sides of the cover 214. The cover 214 may include a number of holes 280 that may receive the fasteners 230 to facilitate coupling with the first lever 232, the second lever 234, and the base 216. The cover 214 may include a number of holes 282 that receive fasteners 228 to facilitate coupling with the leads 226 in the recesses 224 .

[0101] 9B, the cover 214 can have an inner surface 293. The inner surface 293 can have one or more angled surfaces 221 that can be configured to provide clearance for the sled 209 to slide within the housing 212 between the cover 214 and the base 216. The cover 214 can include a sidewall 290 extending outwardly from the inner surface 293. The sidewall 290 can be disposed proximate a lateral longitudinal side of the cover 214. In some variations, the sidewall 290 may contact the base 216 when the cover 214 and base 216 are coupled together. A gap 292 may be disposed within the sidewall 290. As described herein, the gap 292 may be sized to receive the tab 248 of the base 216 therein. The cover 214 may include a plurality of cavities or recesses 286 within which the coupling portions 274 of the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 may be received. The cover 214 may include a hole 280 disposed within the cavity 286 within which the fastener 230 may be received to facilitate coupling the cover 214, the base 216, the first lever 232, and the second lever 234 to one another.

[0102] 10A and 10B show different appearances of the sled 209 disposed in the slot 258 of the base 216. As shown, the tongue 242 is disposed in the slot 258 through the gap 244 of the base 216. The sled 209 can slide in the slot 258 with the tongue 242 disposed in the slot 258. As shown, the sleds 209 are disposed such that the engagement portions 260 of each sled 209 contact each other, which may correspond to the full stroke length of the compression actuator unit 206 to compress the anatomical feature of the user. With the engagement portions 260 contacting each other, the D-ring 208 may be in a position that corresponds to applying maximum tension from the compression actuator unit 206.

[0103] 10C shows the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 disposed on the base 216. The connection portion 274 of the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 is disposed on the mounting portion 252 of the base 216. When the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 are coupled to the base 216 at the mounting portion 252 by the fastener 230 as described herein, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 can pivot about the fastener 230 during actuation. When the second lever 234 rotates above the first lever 232, the raised portion 272 of the second lever 234 can provide clearance for the recessed portion 278 of the first lever 232. As shown, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 are rotated to a position where the engagement portions 260 of the sled 209 of each of the levers 209 abut against each other, which position can correspond to the full stroke length of the compression actuator unit 206. In some variations, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 can contact the engagement portion 260 throughout their entire stroke length, i.e., throughout the entire rotation of the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 to the illustrated position.

[0104] 10D shows slides 236 disposed on base 216. The slides 236 may be disposed on either side of base 216. Contraction of the wires may translate the slides 236 toward one another and push the first and second levers 232, 234 to rotate them, as described herein. Rotating the first and second levers 232, 234 may push on the engagement portion 260 of the sled 209, causing the sled 209 to slide within the slot 258 until the engagement portions 260 contact one another. As described herein, by controlling the magnitude of electrical input applied by the controller to the wires, the contraction of the wires can be precisely controlled to position the thread 209 along a series of locations, which may include predetermined locations, allowing the compression actuator unit 206 to precisely control the pulling force applied by the compression actuator unit 206 to the straps and / or other features of the compression garment, which in turn controls the pressure applied to anatomical features of the user.

[0105] 10E, 10F, and 10G show different views of one side of the compression actuator unit 206 with the cover 214 removed. As shown, the tongue 242 of the compression actuator unit 206 can extend through the slot 264 in the slide 236, through the gap 244 in the base 216, and into the slot 258 in the base 216. As described herein, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 can push against the engagement portion 260 of the sled 209 to translate the sled 209 within the slot 258 in the base 216, thereby applying a pulling force to straps and / or other features of the compression garment to compress anatomical features of the user. 10H shows an exterior view of the compression actuator unit 206 without the cover 214. As shown, the cover 214 can be coupled to the base 216 by fasteners 230, thereby encasing the first lever 232, the second lever 234, and other functional parts of the compression actuator unit 206 within the housing 212.

[0106] 11A illustrates the compression actuator unit 206 in one of many intermediate actuated configurations between an inactive configuration in which the compression actuator unit 206 exerts no additional tension on the straps and / or other features of the compression garment, and an actuated configuration corresponding to the full stroke length of the compression actuator unit 206. As illustrated, the engagement portion 260 is not yet in contact and the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 have been rotated from the inactive configuration to position the D-ring 208 in an intermediate position relative to the housing 212 and to position the engagement portion 260 in an intermediate position within the slot 258 of the base 216. The first lever 232 and the second lever 234 are partially extended or rotated. The compression actuator unit 206 is further illustrated with a pressure sensor 294. The pressure sensor 294 may measure a characteristic indicative of the pressure exerted by the compression actuator unit 206.

[0107] 11B and 11C show the compression actuator unit 206 in an unactuated configuration where it is not exerting any additional tension on the straps and / or other features of the compression garment. As shown, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 have not rotated to the extended configuration; instead, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 are folded. As shown, the D-ring 208 is spaced apart from the housing 212 and the engagement portions 260 are spaced apart from each other. The projection 268 is not pushing against the first lever 232 and the second lever 234, causing them to rotate. As shown in FIG. 11C, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 can include protrusions 296, also referred to as tabs or flanges, against which the protrusions 268 of the slide 236 can press during actuation.

[0108] 11D and 11E show the compression actuator unit 206 in an actuated configuration corresponding to the full stroke length of the compression actuator unit 206. As shown, the slide 236 is pulled inward via contraction of the wires, pushing against the first lever 232 and the second lever 234, causing them to rotate to an extended configuration with the sled 209 translating within the slot 258 in the base 216 until the engagement portions 260 contact one another. In some variations, a protrusion 268 on the slide 236 can push against a protrusion 296 on the first lever 232 and second lever 234 to rotate the first lever 232 and second lever 234. As shown, the D-ring 208 is located near the housing 212 and, in some variations, exerts the greatest pulling force on the straps and / or other features of the compression garment that exert compression on the user. In some variations, only one side of the compression actuator unit 206 includes a thread 209 that exerts the pulling force.

[0109] 12A and 12B show a variation of the actuation mechanism of the compression actuator unit 206. FIG. 12A shows the actuation mechanism in a folded, non-actuated configuration, and FIG. 12B shows the actuation mechanism in an expanded, actuated configuration. As shown, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 may include a slot 302 therein. A fastener 304 slidable within the slot 302 may be inserted through the slot 302 to couple the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 of each pair disposed on either side of the base 216. The fastener 304 helps the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 to rotate easily and evenly through the coupling.

[0110] 12B, the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 may include a tab 300 disposed thereon. One or more (e.g., three) wires 298 may extend from the tab 300 to a fixed tab 301 disposed on the base 216. Contraction of the wires in the direction of arrow C using any of the methods described herein may pull the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 at the tab 300, causing the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 to move the ends of the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 in the direction of arrow B by rotating the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 about the fixture 230 to an expanded configuration. The movement of the ends of the first lever 232 and the second lever 234 may amplify the contraction of the wires, thereby pulling the strap 204 and / or other features of the compression garment in the direction of arrow A, thereby increasing the compression range.

[0111] 13-16K illustrate the assembly process and various components of a compression actuator unit 206, which may include any of the other compression actuator unit 206 functional parts described herein. Figure 13 illustrates a strip of material 310 with exemplary dimensions. The strip 310 may be cut from a sheet of material, which may include polycarbonate.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 14A, the strip 310 can be folded in half to form a loop without forming a crease. The loop can be inserted through an opening or cavity 320 in the sled 314, and the rod or pin 312 can be inserted through the loop to help secure the strip 310 to the sled 314. The sled 314 can include a tongue 316 that is slidable within a slot in the base 216 of the compression actuator unit 206 during actuation. The sled 314 can include a head or engagement portion 318 in which the opening 320 is located. As shown in FIG. 14B, the strip 310 can be pulled to depress the rod or pin 312, which can include using a non-binding tool to seat the rod 312 in the cavity 320. The strip 310 can be pulled to remove slack as needed.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 15A, a fastener 230 (e.g., a shoulder screw) can be inserted into the holes in the pockets 322, 324. With the fastener 230 in place, a first lever 232 can be positioned on the fastener 230 in the deep pocket 322 as shown in FIG. 15B. A second lever 234 can then be positioned on the fastener 230 in the shallow pocket 324 such that the second lever 324 is positioned above the first lever 232 as shown in FIG. 15C. The deep pocket 322 and shallow pocket 324 allow the first lever 232 and second lever 234 to be identical and the second lever 234 can rotate above the first lever 232 without interference. This reduces manufacturing cost and complexity.

[0114] As shown in FIGURE 16A, the slide 236 may sit in recesses 284 located on either side of the cover 214. The slide 236 may include a tab 326 that may be positioned over the second lever 234. The tab 326 may be located on the opposite side of the slot 264 of the slide 236 as shown. With the slide 236 in place, a piece of tape 328 or fastener temporarily adheres the slide 236 to the second lever 234 and secures the assembled parts together during assembly as shown in FIGURE 16B.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 16C, an end (e.g., barrel) 338 of a wire 298, which may be made of a smart memory material such as Nitinol, may be placed in a recess or pocket 218 in the exterior surface 215 of the cover 214. The wire 298 may be routed through a channel 330 in the exterior surface of the cover 214 and through a channel 240 in the slide 236. The channel 330 may include one or more retainers 332, e.g., tabs, that help retain the wire 298 within the channel 330. Once the wire 298 is routed, the wire 298 may be temporarily secured within the channel 330 by tape and / or fasteners. As shown in FIG. 16D, after routing is completed, slack may be present in the wire 298. The tape 328 may be removed leaving the wire 298 in place.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 16E, the sled 314 can be placed over the second lever 234 so that the head or engagement portion 318 of the sled 314 can hook onto the second lever 234 and / or the first lever 232, and the tongue 316 and strip 310 can be placed into the slot 264 of the slide 236. As shown in FIG. 16F and FIG. 16G, the base 216 can then be aligned and positioned over the cover 214 so that the wire 298 can be routed through the channel in the inner surface of the base 216 as described herein. As shown in FIG. 16H, the base 216 can be advanced until it contacts the cover 214. The bending of the base 216 can take up slack in the wire 298. In some variations, a nut can be used to secure the fastener 230 in place, so that the compression actuator unit 206 is assembled as shown in FIG. 16J and FIG. 16K.

[0117] As described herein, a controller can apply an electrical input to wire 298 to retract wire 298, thereby pulling slide 236 toward and / or within housing 212, pushing first lever 232 and second lever 234. Rotation of first lever 232 and second lever 234 can then push head or engagement portion 318 of sled 314, causing sled 314 to move toward each other and pull strap 310. Strip 310 can be coupled to and pull tension on straps and / or other features of the compression garment, causing the compression garment to apply compression against anatomical features of the user. In some variations, a controller capable of applying an electrical input to wire 298 can be located in recess 334 in exterior surface 215 of cover 214.

[0118] FIG. 17 illustrates a compression actuator unit 340. The compression actuator unit 340 may include a housing 346. A D-ring 342 at the end of a tongue 344 is translatable inward and outward of the housing 346. The D-ring 342 may be secured to a strap and / or other feature of a compression garment such that translation of the D-ring 342 toward the housing 346 tensions the strap and / or other feature of the compression garment to apply compression to the user. The housing 346 may include a helical channel 348 disposed thereon in which a wire 298, as described herein, may be disposed. The channel 348 may include one or more retention fasteners 332, also referred to as tabs, in which the wire 298 may be retained. The helical shape allows for a large amount of wire 298 to be routed through the channel 348. The wire 298 can extend from the fastener 228 mounted on the face of the housing 346 through the helical channel 348 and, by directly or indirectly engaging with the tongue 344 and / or functional portions of the associated components, contraction of the wire 298 can pull the D-ring 342 towards the housing 346.

[0119] 18A and 18B show a compression actuator unit 352 that includes a motor 360. The motor 360 can rotate a motor gear 364 that can rotate a gear 366 connected to a spool 367 disposed on a fixed axle or shaft. A film 368, which can be a flexible membrane, fabric, or strip of material, is wound around the spool 376 and can be wound or unwound by driving the motor 360. The film 368 can be incorporated into the straps and / or other features of a compression garment such that winding the film 368 can tension the straps and / or other features of the compression garment to apply compression to the user. Conversely, unwinding the film 368 can release the straps and / or other features to reduce compression to the user. The film 368 can extend out of an opening 370 in the base 356 that houses the motor 360, the motor gear 364, the gear 366, and the spool 367. In some variations, the spool 367 can wind and unwind the wire, allowing for the use of a compression actuator unit 352 with a motor 360 in any of the embodiments herein.

[0120] 19A, 19B, and 19C show a compression actuator unit 352 with multiple (e.g., two) motors 360. The motor 360 may include a shaft 362 on which a motor gear 364 may be disposed. The motor 360 may be driven to rotate the motor gear 364, which in turn rotates two gears 366 attached to a spool 367 disposed on a fixed shaft 358. A film 368, which may be a flexible membrane, fabric, or strip of material, is wound around the spool 376 and may be wound or unwound by driving the motor 360. The film 368 may be incorporated into straps and / or other features of a compression garment such that winding the film 368 may tension the straps and / or other features to apply compression to the user. Conversely, unwinding the film 368 may release the straps and / or other features to reduce compression to the user. The film 368 may extend out of an opening 370 in the base 356 that houses the motor 360 , the motor gear 364 , the gear 366 , and the spool 367 . In some variations, two motors 360 can be used to wind and unwind a wider film 368. In some variations, a spool 367 can wind and unwind a wire, thereby allowing any embodiment herein to use a compression actuator unit 352 with a motor 360. In some variations, a different film of material can be wound around the spool 367. In some variations, the same film of material can be wound around the spool 367.

[0121] 20 illustrates a flex frame assembly 382. The flex frame assembly 382 can include a flex frame 383, which can be made from a variety of materials. The flex frame 383 can include one or more portions that can be flexible under compression. The flex frame 383 can include a base 380. The base 380 can be flexible under compression in some variations. In some variations, the base 380 is not flexible even under compression during use on a patient. The flex frame assembly 382 can include a microelectronic controller 372, also referred to as a printed circuit board assembly or controller. The microelectronic controller 372 can be used in any of the configurations described herein and can apply electrical input to wires 298, which can be made of a shape memory material, and / or can control the motors described herein. The SMA leads 226 can be coupled to the microelectronic controller 372, and the wires 298 can extend therefrom and be wrapped around one or more features of the flex frame 383. For example, the flex frame assembly 382 can include a guide 378, which can include a C-shaped structure around which the wires 298 are wrapped such that when the wires 298 contract, the flex frame 383 shortens in length and applies tension to the straps and / or other features of a compression garment attached to the flex frame 383. The flex frame 383 can include a number of spring arms 374 (e.g., springs) that extend outward toward the sides of the flex frame 383 and return inward toward bridges 376 disposed between adjacent spring arms 374. The spring arms 374 can be configured to flex under compression. 20, the wire 298 can be wrapped around two guides 378 away from the SMA lead 226, extend back toward the microelectronic controller 372, and then wrapped around two guides 378 located near the microelectronic controller 372 and extend away from the microelectronic controller 372 to a guide 378 located at an end that may include an end of multiple spring arms 374 and bridges 376 of the flex frame 383. The guides 378 can be positioned between the wire 298 as it doubles back on itself.

[0122] 21A and 21B show views of variations of a compression actuator unit 406, also referred to as an actuator unit, actuator, constrictor, tension unit, etc. The compression actuator unit 406 may include a curved perimeter and / or contour that may correspond to a curved surface of a user's limb and / or anatomical feature. The compression actuator unit 406 may include a perimeter having a flat surface. The compression actuator unit 406 may include a housing 416. The housing 416 may include a cover 414 and a base 216 that may be coupled together by one or more fasteners 430 (e.g., rivets, bolts, screws, etc.). One or more compression actuator units 406 may be incorporated into a compression garment, such as the compression garment 200, to apply compression to an anatomical feature of a user as described herein. The compression actuator unit 406 may include any of the features and / or characteristics described with respect to the compression actuator unit 206.

[0123] The housing 416 (e.g., the cover 414 and / or the base 415) may include one or more features (e.g., channels, grooves, etc.) to accommodate or retain the wire 298 or the like. The wire 298 is wound around the features of the housing 416, and the slide 436 extends out of an opening in the housing 416. For example, the wire 298 may be wound around the exterior of the housing 416 and the slide 436 such that when the wire 298 contracts, the slide 436 moves into the housing 416, but the slide 436 may include a portion that remains outside the housing 416. For example, the housing 416 (e.g., the cover 414 and / or the base 415) may include a recess 418 and / or a recess 419. The recess 418 and / or the recess 419 may accommodate or retain the lead 426 therein. The lead 426 may be a shape memory alloy (SMA), a shape memory polymer (SMP), and / or other shape memory material lead. The leads 426 may begin and end the wires 298 or may be bonded to the wires 298, etc. The wires 298 may be made from SMA, SMP, and / or other shape memory materials. The leads 426 may be connected to a controller, such as a microcontroller, that applies an electrical input thereto to heat the wires 298, etc. As described herein, heating the wires 298 may cause the wires 298 to contract.

[0124] 21A, the housing 416 (e.g., its exterior surface) can include one or more channels or grooves 420. The channels 420 can be located on the cover 414 and / or on a top surface of the housing 416 (e.g., whichever is located further away from the anatomical features of a user when incorporated into a compression garment worn by a user). The channels 420 can extend from a recess 419 and / or a recess 418 that can accommodate a lead 426. 21B, the housing 416 (e.g., its exterior surface) can include one or more channels or grooves 421. The channels 421 can be located on the base 415 and / or the underside of the housing 416 (e.g., whichever is located closer to the anatomical features of a user when incorporated into a compression garment worn by a user).

[0125] The wire 298 may be routed from a lead 426 disposed in the recess 419 to one of the channels 420, wrapped around the curved surface 407 of the housing 416, and routed to one of the channels 421 in the underside or base 415. The wire 298 may be routed through the channel 421 to a slide 436 (e.g., a slide) disposed in an opening in the housing 416 (e.g., between the cover 414 and the base 415). The slide 436 may extend from the inside to the outside of the housing 416. The wire 298 may be routed around the slide 436 through a channel 440 of a plurality of channels 440 in the exposed curved surface of the slide 436 and back to another channel 420 of a plurality of channels 420 in the top surface of the housing 416 (e.g., cover 414). The wire 298 may be routed through a channel 420, around the curved surface 407, back to another channel 421, another channel 440 in the slide 436, back to another channel 420, one or more times (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more times). As shown in FIG. 21B, the wire 298 may be routed through one or more iterations until it is routed through a curved channel in the underside (e.g., base), and then back to another channel 420 without being routed around the slide 436. The wire 298 may be routed through another channel 420, another channel 440 in the slide 436, another channel 421, around the curved surface 407, and back to another channel 420 one or more times (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more times) before terminating in a lead 426 disposed in the recess 418 as shown in Figure 21A. In some variations, the wire 298 may be coated, which may include being coated with a polymer such as an SMP.

[0126] When an electrical input is applied to the wire 298, the wire 298 can contract, causing the slide 436 to move further into and / or toward the housing 416. In the unactuated configuration, a gap 437 can be disposed between at least a portion of the slide 436 and the housing 416 (e.g., the cover 414 and the base 415), and as the wire 298 contracts, the gap 437 can become smaller. As the wire 298 contracts, the slide 436 can move further into and / or toward the housing 416. The movement of the slide 436 causes the strap 310 (e.g., a strip, belt, band, cable, etc.) to move inwardly of the housing 416, which can tension the strap 310 or other functional portion of a compression garment attached to the strap 310, thereby applying a compressive force against a user's limb or other anatomical feature. In some variations, both portions of the strap 310 that extend away from the housing 416 may be pulled inward as the wire contracts. In some variations, one side of the strap 310 that extends from the housing 416 may be pulled toward the inside of the housing 416.

[0127] The housing 416 may include a recess 490. The recess 490 may be located on an upper surface (e.g., an outer surface of the cover 41). The recess 490 may receive a controller therein, such as a microelectronic controller, which may apply a current to the leads 426 of the wires 298 to cause the wires 298 to contract.

[0128] The compression actuator unit 406 may include a number of levers positionable in the housing 416. The slide 436 may be rotated by directly or indirectly contacting the levers. The rotated levers may translate a thread coupled to the strap 310 to tension the strap 310. The thread may be positionable in the housing 416. The levers may be pivotally secured to the housing 416 by fasteners 430. A portion of the levers may be exposed through one or more openings 435. The levers may amplify the impact of the movement of the slide 436, thereby allowing the strap 310 to move a greater distance than the slide 436. The levers may amplify the movement of the strap 310 by up to at least 1000% (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, or more percent) compared to the slide 236.

[0129] The housing 416 may include one or more openings 488 (e.g., recesses). The openings 488 may be used for a variety of purposes. For example, the openings 488 may be used to secure the compression actuator unit 406 to a compression garment, to couple one or more compression actuator units 406, and / or for other purposes.

[0130] 21B, the housing 416 (e.g., the base 415) can include an opening 486 that leads to an interior cavity of the housing 416. The opening 486 can be used to position one or more components within the housing 416.

[0131] 22A and 22B show different appearances of the housing 416. The housing 416 may include an opening 444 for receiving the slide 436. The opening 444 may receive the slide 436 such that at least a portion of the slide 436 may be contained therein. The opening 444 may be defined by the cover 414 and the base 415.

[0132] 23A and 23B show different views of a thread 409 coupled to a strap 310. The thread 409 may include an engagement portion 460, also referred to as a head or enlargement, that may be translated (e.g., pushed) by a number of levers to tension the strap 310.

[0133] The engagement portion 460 may include a slot 461 into which the doubled portion of the strap 310 may be received. The doubled portion of the strap 310 may be held within the slot 461 by the first rod 446. For example, the strap 310 may be wrapped around the first rod 446. An end of the first rod 446 may rest and / or be held on a ledge and / or contour that defines a perimeter of the slot 461 to hold the first rod 446 in place and prevent the strap 310 from inadvertently disengaging from the sled 409. In some variations, the first rod 446 may be coupled to the engagement portion 460 by a fastener, clip, or the like.

[0134] The sled 409 may include a tongue 442. The tongue 442 may extend away from the engagement portion 460. The tongue 442 may have a greatest width adjacent the engagement portion 460 and may be narrower away from the engagement portion 460. The tongue 442 may be generally flat.

[0135] 23B, the strap 310 can be wrapped around a second rod 447. As described herein, the second rod 447 can be spring biased to pretension the strap 310 before energizing the wire 298 to move the slide 436. Alternatively, the second rod 447 can be spring biased to limit the force applied by the compression actuator unit 406. In some variations, the second rod 447 is fixedly coupled to the housing 416.

[0136] 24B and 24C show different appearances of the slide 436. The slide 436 may include a curved surface 462 that may be located on the exterior of the housing 416 when assembled therein. A channel 440 may be located in the curved surface 462 through which the wires 298, etc. may be routed. The slide 436 may include a slot 464 sized to allow the tongues 442 of the threads 409 and / or the straps 310 to pass through. The slide 436 may include a gap 484 (e.g., a slot, a recess, etc.) that may receive the lever therein. The slide 436 may include a first flange 483 (e.g., an upper flange) and / or a second flange 485 (e.g., a lower flange). The first flange 483 and the second flange 485 may be located on either side of the gap 484. In some variations, the first flange 483 may extend the entire length of the slide 436. The second flange 485 may be interrupted by a slot 464. The slide 436 may include a protrusion 468 (e.g., a bump, a raised surface, a rod, a pin, etc.) that may contact and push against a portion of the lever when the slide 436 moves toward the inside of the housing 416 due to contraction of the wire 298 (e.g., during actuation). During actuation, the protrusion 468 contacts and pushes against the lever by contracting the wire or the like and pulling the slide 436 toward the inside of the housing 416. The lever rotates and pushes against an engagement portion 460 of the thread 409, causing the thread 409 to translate into the housing 416, thereby tensioning the strap 310 of the compression garment and / or other features attached to the strap 310. The protrusion 468 may be located within the gap 484. In some variations, the protrusion 468 may be a rod or pin that passes through a portion of the slide 436 , such as the first flange 483 and / or the second flange 485 .

[0137] 25A and 25B show different views of the first lever 432, also referred to as an arm, limb, member, etc. As described herein, the first lever 432 can be fixed to the housing 416. For example, a fastener 430 couples one end of the first lever 432 to the housing 416, thereby allowing the first lever 432 to rotate at a free end about the fastener 430. The first lever 432 can include a rounded end. The first lever 432 can have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as rectangular, square, circular, oval, irregular, etc. The first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can be the same or different from each other (e.g., size, shape, material, contour, etc.).

[0138] 26A-26D show different views of a portion of the housing 416 (e.g., base 415) with the sled 409 and strap 310 assembled therein. As shown in FIG. 26A, the tongue 442 of the sled 409 can be disposed in a slot 439, also called a track, of the housing 416 (e.g., base 415). The tongue 442 can translate (e.g., move, slide) in the slot 439 during actuation of the compression actuator unit 406. The engagement portion 460 of the sled 409 can be disposed in a cavity 438, also called a slot or track, of the housing 416 (e.g., base 415). The engagement portion 460 can translate (e.g., move, slide) in the cavity 438. The walls of the housing 416 (e.g., base 415) can ensure linear translation of the engagement portion 460 in the cavity 438. The strap 310 can be positioned within the slot 439 and translated therein during actuation of the compression actuator unit 406 .

[0139] 26C shows a cross section of the housing 416 (e.g., cover 414 and base 415) with the thread 409 and strap 310 therein. As described herein, the strap 310 can be wrapped around (e.g., double around) the first rod 446 that is held in the slot 461 of the engagement portion 460. The first rod 446 can be held in the slot 461 by one or more shelves and / or contours of the engagement portion 460.

[0140] The strap 310 can enter the housing 416 through an opening 444 disposed in the slot 439. The strap 310 can be disposed under the tongue 442 of the thread 409, enter upwardly into the slot 461 in the engagement portion 460, pass around the first rod 446, exit under the slot 461, pass around (e.g., double) the second rod 447, and pass through the slot 439 to exit the housing 416 on the opposite side from the opening 444 in the housing 416. The wrapping of the strap 310 around the first rod 446 and the second rod 447 can be referred to as a pulley system and / or structure.

[0141] The second rod 447 can be held by a receiver 452 (e.g., a retainer). In some variations, the receiver 452 holding the second rod 447 can be biased in one direction by one or more springs 450. For example, the receiver 452 can be biased in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the sled 409 during compression. Biasing the receiver 452 with the second rod 447 can pre-tension the strap 310 prior to actuation by the compression actuator unit 406, thereby providing a baseline pressure for the user and limiting the output of the compression actuator unit 406. Biasing the receiver 452 can provide some slack for the compression actuator unit 406, improving comfort for the user. The receiver 452 can be received within a slot and / or cavity in the housing 416. In some variations, the second rod 447 can be fixed in place. In some variations, the second rod 447 itself can be biased in one direction without the receiver 452.

[0142] During actuation, the slide 436 may move inward to rotate one or more levers, thereby displacing the sled 409. The displacement of the sled 409 pulls the strap 310 wrapped around the first rod 446, thereby drawing the strap 310 further into the housing 416 and exerting compression on the wearer. For example, a portion of the strap 310 that extends outside the housing 416 in the unactuated configuration may be pulled into the housing 416 in the actuated configuration.

[0143] 26D shows an exterior view of the housing 416 (e.g., cover 414 and base 415) with the sled 409 and strap 310 disposed therein, with the housing 416 being transparent. As shown, a second spring 451 can bias the receiver 452 in one direction.

[0144] 27 illustrates a portion of a housing 416 (e.g., base 415) with the sled 409, strap 310, and first and second levers 432, 434 in an actuated configuration. As described herein, the first and second levers 432, 434 may be rotatably fixed at one end to the housing 416. As shown, the free ends of the first and second levers 432, 434 rotate inwardly to push the sled 409 into translation, thereby applying tension to the strap 310. The second lever 434 can be positioned above the first lever 432, or vice versa. The first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can rotate into an "X" configuration in which the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 cross each other. The free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 include curves to reduce binding or friction as the free ends push against the engagement portion 460 of the sled 409 as the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 rotate into the extended configuration to translate the sled 409 away from the opening 444 of the housing 416. 28A and 28B, the slide 436 may push the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 to rotate, which may cause them to push and translate the sled 409. Specifically, the protrusion 468 of the slide 436 may push the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 to rotate.

[0145] 29A and 29B show a cross section of the compression actuator unit 406 with the housing 416 (e.g., cover 414 and base 415), slide 436, first lever 432, second lever 434, sled 409, and strap 310. FIG. 29A shows the compression actuator unit 406 in a folded, non-actuated configuration. In the folded, non-actuated configuration, the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can be at least partially located within a gap 484 of the slide 436. The first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can be arranged in an overlapping configuration, such that the free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can be arranged in an overlapping configuration. The free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can be disposed adjacent to the slide 436. The tongue 442 of the sled 409 can be disposed within a slot 464 of the slide 436. A gap 437 may extend between a portion of the slide 436 (e.g., the portion of the slide 436 having the curved surface 462) and the housing 416. The first flange 483 and the second flange 485 may extend into the opening 444 of the housing 416. The first flange 483 and the second flange 485 may contact the interior of the housing 416, thereby directing the movement of the slide 436 into a linear translation.

[0146] 29B shows the compression actuator unit 406 in an extended, actuated configuration. In the extended, actuated configuration, the free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 rotate away from the slide 436, translating the thread 409 within the cavity 438 of the housing 416 and applying compression by pulling the strap 310 into the housing 416. As described herein, the wire 298 wound around the housing 416 and the slide 436 can be contracted by application of an electric current, moving the slide 436 toward the inside of the housing 416 and reducing the gap 437. The slide 436 (e.g., the protrusion 468) can rotate the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 by pushing against them. The free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can push on the sled 409 (e.g., on the engagement portion 460) to translate the sled 409 into the cavity 438 of the housing 416 and tension the strap 310 (e.g., pulling the strap 310 further into the housing 416). The tongue 442 of the sled 409 can exit the slot 464 of the slide 436, which can include the tongue 442 being fully within the housing 416.

[0147] 30A-30D show the compression actuator unit 406 with the housing 416 transparent. Figures 30A and 30C show the compression actuator unit 406 in an unactuated, folded configuration with the sled 409 and the free ends of the first and second levers 432, 434 adjacent to the slide 436. In the folded configuration, a majority of the long sides of the first and second levers 432, 434 may contact the engagement portion 460, as shown.

[0148] 30B and 30D show the compression actuator unit 406 in an actuated, extended configuration in which rotation of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 causes the sled 409 to translate away from the slide 436, tensioning the strap 310. The free ends of the first lever 432 and the second lever 434 can push against the engagement portion 460 to translate the sled 409 into the housing 416. As shown, the second lever 434 can move above the first lever 432 to avoid collision. In some variations, as shown in FIGS. 30B and 30D, the sled 409 can translate to any position between the unactuated, collapsed configuration and the actuated, extended configuration.

[0149] Figure 31A shows the compression actuator unit 406 in a transparent state with the wire 298 wrapped around the housing 416 and slide 436. Figure 31B shows the wire 298 in a wrapped state, but without showing the remainder of the compression actuator unit 406.

[0150] In some variations, multiple compression actuator units 406 and / or compression actuator units 206 may be incorporated into the compression garment. In some variations, multiple compression actuator units 406 and / or compression actuator units 206 may be coupled to a single strap 310 to apply compression. The compression actuator units 406 and / or compression actuator units 206 may be made from a variety of materials, including at least one or more polymers (e.g., plastics), metals, alloys, shape memory materials, etc. As described herein, the compression garment may apply compression to anatomical features of the user by incorporating one or more compression actuator units 406 and / or compression actuator units 206 described herein. In some variations, the controller can be connected to multiple microcontrollers, each of which controls the actuation of a compression actuator unit 406 and / or compression actuator unit 206. The multiple compression actuator units 406 and / or compression actuator units 206 can be actuated simultaneously and / or in other patterns to apply compression, which may include at least displacing liquid within the user's anatomical feature from the distal portion of the anatomical feature by applying inward compression from a distal portion of the user's anatomical feature toward a proximal portion of the anatomical feature.

[0151] [term] Although the systems and methods have been disclosed in connection with particular embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and methods extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to the use of other alternative embodiments and / or embodiments, as well as certain modifications and equivalents thereof. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with or substituted for one another to form various modes of conveyors, and the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the specific disclosed embodiments described herein.

[0152] Included are methods of using the aforementioned systems (including devices, apparatus, assemblies, structures, etc.), which may involve using or combining one or more features disclosed herein to achieve the functions and / or features of the systems described in this disclosure. Included are methods of manufacturing the aforementioned systems, which may include providing, making, connecting, assembling, and / or incorporating one or more features of the systems disclosed herein to achieve the functions and / or features of the systems set forth in this disclosure.

[0153] Certain features that are described in the disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although described above as functioning in particular combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be deleted from that combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or a variation of any subcombination.

[0154] Furthermore, although operations may be shown in the figures or described in the specification in a particular order, such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in the sequential order to achieve desirable results, and not all operations need to be performed. Other operations not shown or described may also be incorporated into the method and process of the embodiments. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between the operations described. Moreover, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the above implementations should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations. And, it should be understood that the components and systems described may typically be integrated into a single product or packaged in multiple products. Moreover, other implementations are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0155] Conditional language such as "can," "could," "may," "might," and the like, unless expressly stated otherwise or understood otherwise within the context in which it is used, is generally intended to convey whether certain features, elements, and / or steps are included or not included in a particular embodiment. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

[0156] Conjunction language such as "at least one of X, Y, Z," unless otherwise indicated, is understood to be generally used to convey from context that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to suggest that a given embodiment requires at least one X, at least one Y, and at least one Z.

[0157] Several embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. Components may be added, removed, and / or rearranged. For example, orientation references such as "top" and "bottom" are for ease of description and may be rearranged such that top features are proximate the bottom and bottom features are proximate the top. Furthermore, any particular features, aspects, methods, properties, characteristics, qualities, attributes, elements, etc. associated with various embodiments disclosed herein may be used in all other embodiments described herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any method described herein may be implemented using any apparatus suitable for performing the described steps.

[0158] In summary, various embodiments and examples of the juice extraction device and method have been disclosed. Although the system and method have been disclosed in relation to these embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or other uses of the embodiments, as well as certain modifications and equivalents thereof. The present disclosure expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the specific disclosed embodiments above, but should be determined solely by a fair reading of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A garment worn by a user to promote fluid flow within an anatomical feature of the user, said garment comprising: a plurality of straps configured to secure the garment to anatomical features of a user; a plurality of compression actuator units; Each of the compression actuator units a housing having an interior space; one or more levers mounted within the interior space and configured to rotate; a slide configured to be pulled relative to the one or more levers to rotate the one or more levers; a thread coupled to one of a plurality of straps of a compression garment and configured to be moved by rotation of the one or more levers; a wire wound around the housing and a portion of the slide, the wire configured to contract to pull the slide against the one or more levers, rotating the one or more levers and moving the sled, thereby pulling the one of the plurality of straps to apply compression to an anatomical feature of a user.

2. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the thread has a D-ring configured to couple with one of the plurality of straps.

3. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the housing has a plurality of channels configured to receive the wires therein.

4. 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the housing has a cover and a base, an outer surface of the cover having a channel configured to receive the wire therein, and an inner surface of the base having a channel configured to receive the wire therein.

5. 10. The garment of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of compression actuator units is configured to amplify the stroke length of the wire contraction by up to 1000%.

6. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the housing has a slot disposed therein, the slot configured to receive the thread therein.

7. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the slide has one or more protrusions configured to contact the one or more levers to rotate them.

8. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the slide has a channel configured to receive the wire therein.

9. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the slide has a slot configured to receive the thread therethrough.

10. 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the one or more levers include a first lever having a recessed portion and a second lever having a raised portion, the raised portion of the second lever being configured to pass over the recessed portion of the first lever to avoid interference between the first and second levers during rotation.

11. 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the housing has a base and a cover, the base having two inclined surfaces angled about an inflection point, and the sled is configured to slide on at least one of the two inclined surfaces.

12. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the sled has an engagement portion configured to contact the one or more levers.

13. 10. The garment of claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to apply an electrical input to the wire to increase an internal temperature of the wire such that the wire contracts.

14. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of compression actuator units are configured to compress anatomical features of a user simultaneously or sequentially.

15. 1. A garment worn by a user to compressively promote fluid flow within an anatomical feature of the user, the garment comprising: a strap configured to be placed around an anatomical feature of a user; an actuator unit; The actuator unit a housing having an interior space and a plurality of channels configured to receive wires therein so that the wires are wound around functional portions of the housing; a first lever disposed within the interior space and configured to rotate; a slide configured to be pulled relative to the first lever by contraction of the wire to rotate the first lever; a thread disposed at least partially within the interior space of the housing and coupled to the strap of a compression garment, the thread configured to move with rotation of the first lever, and to pull the strap to apply compression to an anatomical feature of a user.

16. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the housing has a cover and a base, and a plurality of channels are provided on an outer surface of the cover and an inner surface of the base.

17. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the compression actuator unit is configured to amplify the stroke length of the wire contraction by up to 1000%.

18. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the housing has a slot disposed therein and configured to receive the thread therein.

19. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the slide has one or more protrusions configured to contact the first lever to rotate it.

20. The garment of claim 15, wherein the slide has a channel configured to receive the wire therein.

21. The garment of claim 15, wherein the slide has a slot configured to receive the thread therethrough.

22. 16. The garment of claim 15, further comprising a second lever disposed in the interior space, the slide configured to be pulled relative to the second lever by contraction of the wire to rotate the second lever, and the first lever having a recessed portion and the second lever having a raised portion, the raised portion of the second lever configured to pass over the recessed portion of the first lever to avoid interference between the first and second levers during rotation.

23. 16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the housing has a cover and a base, the base having two angled sloped surfaces about an inflection point, and the sled is configured to slide on at least one of the two sloped surfaces.

24. 23. The garment of claim 22, wherein the thread has an engagement portion configured to contact the first lever and the second lever.

25. 16. The garment of claim 15, further comprising a controller configured to apply an electrical input to the wire to increase an internal temperature of the wire such that the wire contracts.

Images