Circulation support device

Abstract

The invention relates to a wearable circulation support device (10), which is attached to the calf and includes a pusher assembly (20) having at least three pushers (21) that sequentially apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart. It is characterized in that, it comprises at least one detector unit (30) comprising at least one of a pulse sensor (30.1), an oximeter (30.2), and an edema detector (30.3) to enable the acquisition of at least one physiological parameter from the pulse, tissue oxygenation and edema parameters of the person; a processor unit (40) to enable the said physiological parameter to be compared with a reference physiological parameter and to operate said pusher assembly (20) in case the physiological parameter is found to be outside said reference parameter.

Description

[0001] CIRCULATION SUPPORT DEVICE

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The invention relates to a wearable circulation support device, which is attached to the calf and includes a pusher assembly having at least three pushers that apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart.

[0004] State of the Art of the Invention

[0005] Circulation support devices are used to improve blood circulation, especially in the calf area, and to treat circulatory problems such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These devices accelerate blood flow in the legs, preventing blood pooling in the vessels and reducing unwanted effects such as swelling and edema. They are usually divided into compression stockings, air pressure devices, electrostimulation devices, and leg massagers, with each device aiming to promote healthy circulation by supporting the movement of blood towards the heart. It is widely preferred to prevent circulatory problems that can occur in situations such as a sedentary lifestyle, sitting or standing for long periods of time. The use of these devices is also becoming widespread in the recovery process of athletes or on long journeys.

[0006] However, solutions such as compression stockings apply pressure evenly over the entire calf area, not just the veins, which can cause discomfort for some users. The devices cannot adapt to people's immediate circulatory needs and apply a certain level of pressure continuously. This does not provide an appropriate response to the fluctuating circulatory needs of a moving or resting person, which can reduce the effectiveness of the devices. Moreover, each device offers a fixed functionality, making it difficult to make individual adjustments according to personal needs.

[0007] The invention disclosed in application No. WO2022245549A1 provides a valve apparatus placed on the outer surface of the vessels for controlling blood flow in the venous system of individuals, and a method for controlling this valve apparatus. The valve apparatus works by using electromagnets and sensors to block blood flow from the outside without interfering with the lumen of the vessel. These valve systems also help pump blood back to the heart and reduce the risk of clots.

[0008] As a result, all the above-mentioned problems have made it imperative to make an innovation in the relevant technical field.

[0009] Objects and Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention relates to a circulation support device for eliminating the above- mentioned disadvantages and bringing the new advantages to the relevant technical field.

[0011] An object of the invention is to provide a circulation support device that can respond to a person's immediate needs.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to provide a comfortable circulation support device that does not put pressure on the entire calf.

[0013] To achieve all the objects mentioned above and that will emerge from the following detailed description, the present invention is a wearable circulation support device, which is attached to the calf of the person and includes a pusher assembly having at least three pushers that apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart. Accordingly, its novelty is that it comprises at least one detector unit comprising at least one of a pulse sensor, an oximeter, and an edema detector to enable the acquisition of at least one physiological parameter from the pulse, tissue oxygenation and edema parameters of the person; a processor unit to enable the said physiological parameter to be compared with a reference physiological parameter and to operate said pusher assembly in case the physiological parameter is found to be outside said reference parameter. Thus, according to the instant body data of the person, a circulation support device that can be operated according to the needs is introduced.

[0014] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a memory unit for storing data associated with the processor unit. Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the pusher is a linear actuator.

[0015] This ensures a highly controllable movement mechanism.

[0016] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a user interface for transmitting an actuation signal to said processor unit to enable remote actuation of the pusher assembly.

[0017] A further possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a rigid body, said rigid body comprising a flexible face on the calf-facing part thereof.

[0018] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises at least one belt holder to allow a belt to be connected to said rigid body for connecting the circulation support device to the leg.

[0019] Another possible embodiment feature of the invention is that the pushers are arranged along a vertical axis, with the processor unit configured to operate the pusher closest to the person's foot on the vertical axis first, and the pusher closest to the person's thigh on the vertical axis last.

[0020] The invention is a method performed by means of a processor unit in a wearable circulation support device which is attached to the calf of the person and includes a pusher assembly having at least three pushers that sequentially apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart. Accordingly, its novelty is that it includes the following process steps: receiving a physiological parameter from the detector unit, including at least one of the parameter groups of pulse, tissue oxygenation, and edema, comparing the received physiological parameter with a reference physiological parameter, and activating the pusher assembly if the physiological parameter is determined to be at a value other than the reference physiological parameter.

[0021] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises the process step of applying the physiological parameter as input to a first mathematical model that outputs the working order information of the pusher group when the at least one physiological parameter trained by the physiological habits of the person is received as input, and outputting the working order information of the pusher group.

[0022] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it comprises the process step of operating the pusher closest to the foot of the person in the vertical axis first, and operating the pusher closest to the thigh of the person in the vertical axis last.

[0023] Descriptions of the Figures Describing the Invention

[0024] Fig. 1 shows a representative isometric view of the circulation support device of the invention, excluding the cover portion.

[0025] Fig. 2 shows a representative isometric view of the inside of the rigid body of the circulation support device of the invention.

[0026] Fig. 3 shows a representative front view of the circulation support device of the invention.

[0027] Fig. 4 shows a representative side view of the circulation support device of the invention.

[0028] Fig. 5 shows a representative schematic view of the operating algorithm of the circulation support device of the invention

[0029] Definitions of the Elements / Features / Parts of the Invention

[0030] 10 Circulation Support Device

[0031] 11 Rigid Body

[0032] 111 Bridge

[0033] 12 Flexible Face

[0034] 121 Pad

[0035] 13 Belt Holder

[0036] 14 Cover

[0037] 20 Pusher Assembly

[0038] 21 Pusher

[0039] 21.1 First Pusher 21.2 Second Pusher

[0040] 21.3 Third Pusher

[0041] 21.4 Fourth Pusher

[0042] 30 Detector Unit

[0043] 30.1 Pulse Sensor

[0044] 30.2 Oximeter

[0045] 30.3 Edema Detector

[0046] 40 Processor Unit

[0047] 50 Memory Unit

[0048] 60 User Interface

[0049] (I) Vertical Axis

[0050] (II) Horizontal Axis

[0051] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0052] In this detailed description, the subject of the invention is explained by way of example only for a better understanding of the subject, which shall not create any limiting effect.

[0053] Fig. 1 shows a representative isometric view of the rigid body (11) of the circulation support device (10) of the invention. The circulation support device (10) is attached to the calf of the person and is configured to move blood from the veins in the calf towards the heart and thus provide support for blood circulation. Accordingly, the circulation support device (10) comprises a rigid body (11) in which electronic and mechanical elements are placed. At least one belt holder (13) is provided on the circulation support device (10). Said belt holder (13) allows a belt to be connected to the circulation support device (10) so that the circulation support device (10) can be secured to the leg of the person around the tibia. In the preferred embodiment, the belt holder (13) is positioned on the rigid body (11). The rigid body (11) has an inward curve in the calf-facing part to adapt to the form of the calf.

[0054] The circulation support device (10) comprises at least one flexible face (12) connected to the rigid body (11). Said flexible face (12) is the face of the circulation support device (10) in contact with the person's calf. Therefore, the flexible face (12) is made of a stretchable material to provide comfort for the user. In a possible embodiment the flexible face (12) is fabric material. At least one cover (14) is connected to the rigid body (11). Said cover (14) covers the inner opening of the rigid body (11) and isolates the electronic and mechanical components inside the circulation support device (10) from the external environment.

[0055] The circulation support device (10) comprises at least one pusher assembly (20) having at least three pushers (21) that provide movement to press against the calf to support circulation. The pushers (21) are positioned so that when the circulation support device (10) is worn on the calf, it is positioned over the vein in the calf. In other words, the pushers (21) are arranged along a vertical axis (I) perpendicular to the floor on which the person is standing. The pushing movement is at least partly in the direction of a horizontal axis (II) perpendicular to the vertical axis (I). In the possible embodiment, the pushers (21) are linear actuators. The rigid body (11) includes at least one bridge (111) extending between opposite sides of the rigid body (11). Said bridge (111) is the element that allows the linear actuator to be connected thereto. The pushers (21) have at least one pad (121) on the person-facing side. Said pad (121) is made of elastic material so that the pushers (21) do not cause discomfort to the person. In the preferred embodiment, the material of the flexible face (12) and the material of the pad (121) are the same. Accordingly, in the possible embodiment, the pad (121) is also fabric. The pushers (21) are in elliptical form in the preferred embodiment as shown in fig. 3. This ensures that the pressure can be applied optimally on the vein.

[0056] In order to support circulation, the pushers (21) must be operated in a specific sequence. In an embodiment with only three pushers (21), the pusher (21) closest to the ground (furthest from the thigh) is activated first, then the middle one, and finally the pusher (21) furthest from the ground (closest to the thigh). Thus, blood is directed towards the heart with positive pressure. The first two pushers (21) are then retracted, except for the top pusher (21). In this way, with negative pressure, the vein at the level of the pusher assembly (20) is rapidly refilled with blood. The top pusher (21) then retracts while the bottom pusher (21) simultaneously applies compression and the same cycle continues with the middle and top pushers (21). In this way, at the level of the circulation support device (10), blood is continuously and rapidly filled into the vein and sent towards the heart.

[0057] In the preferred embodiment, the pusher assembly (20) consists of four pushers (21) as shown in the figures. In an embodiment with four pushers (21), the first pusher (21.1) closest to the ground is activated first, then the second pusher (21.2), the third pusher (21.3), and finally the fourth pusher (21.4) furthest from the ground. Then the first three pushers (21) (first pusher (21.1), second pusher (21.2), and third pusher (21.3)) are retracted, except for the top pusher (21) (fourth pusher (21.4)). The top pusher (21) (fourth pusher (21.4)) then retracts while the bottom pusher (21) (first pusher (21.1)) simultaneously applies compression and the same cycle continues with the second pusher (21.2), third pusher (21.3), and fourth pusher (21.4).

[0058] The circulation support device (10) comprises a detector unit (30). Said detector unit (30) enables the measurement of at least one physiological parameter of the person. The pusher group (20) is associated with at least one processor unit (40). Said processor unit (40) is also associated with the detector unit (30). The processor unit (40) compares the physiological parameter value received from the detector unit (30) with a reference value and ensures the operation of the pusher assembly (20) when the physiological parameter is outside the reference parameter.

[0059] In a possible embodiment, the processor unit (40) is connected to at least one memory unit (50) in which the reference parameter is stored.

[0060] The detector unit (30) comprises at least one pulse sensor (30.1) that measures the pulse of the person. Accordingly, the processor unit (40) can compare the pulse data received from the said pulse sensor (30.1) with a reference pulse value, and according to this comparison, the pusher unit (20) can be operated. Thus, in a possible embodiment, the circulation support device (10) only operates when the pulse rate of the person falls below a predetermined threshold pulse rate. In this way, if the person's pulse rate is already above the threshold pulse rate, the pusher assembly (20) does not operate, preventing the already fast flowing blood from being slowed down by the pusher assembly (20). The threshold pulse value here can be determined according to the working capacity of the pusher assembly (20). For example, if the pusher assembly (20) is configured to provide maximum support equivalent to a pulse rate of 100, the processor unit (40) disables the pusher assembly (20) because the pusher assembly (20) will not be able to operate faster when the person's pulse rate rises above 100. If it is below 100, it sends a start signal to the pusher group (20) to support blood circulation.

[0061] In the possible embodiment, the detector unit (30) includes at least one oximeter (30.2) that measures oxygen saturation in the blood of the person. Accordingly, the processor unit (40) compares the oxygen value from said oximeter (30.2) with a reference oxygen value and if the oxygen value differs from said limit oxygen value, it can activate the pusher assembly (20). In this way, when a person's oxygen value falls below a predetermined limit oxygen value, the pusher assembly (20) is activated and supports the blood circulation to raise the oxygen value.

[0062] In the possible embodiment, the detector unit (30) comprises a small edema detector (30.3) with the task of detecting fluid accumulation in the calf of the person. Accordingly, the processor unit (40) compares the edema value from said edema detector (30.3) with a reference edema value and if the edema value differs from said limit edema value it can actuate the pusher assembly (20). In this way, when a person's edema value exceeds a predetermined limit edema value, the pusher assembly (20) is activated and the edema is reduced.

[0063] The circulation support device (10) is associated to exchange data with at least one user interface (60). Said user interface (60) is a remote device external to the circulation support device (10). Accordingly, the user interface (60) can be a mobile phone, computer, smartwatch, etc. The processor unit (40) transmits the physiological parameters received from the detector unit (30) to the user interface (60) and allows the person to monitor the physiological parameter values from there. However, the person can also manually control the operation of the circulation support device (10) from the user interface (60). The circulation support device (10) can also function through the garment. For this purpose, the user interface (60) also allows control of the compression force to be applied by the pushers (21).

[0064] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (40) enables applying the physiological parameter as input to a first mathematical model that outputs the working order information of the pusher group (20) when the at least one physiological parameter trained by the physiological habits of the person is received as input, and outputting the working order information of the pusher group (20). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the physiological habit mentioned may be data from a situation in which the person has previously needed to activate the pusher group (20). In other words, the parameters with which the pusher assembly (20) operated depending on a previous physiological parameter of the person are kept in memory, and the parameters with which the pusher assembly (20) will operate in the same physiological parameter of the person can be determined accordingly. In an example scenario, if tissue oxygenation drops to 95% and reaches 99% with 15 minutes of operation, the next operation order can be planned accordingly. In a possible embodiment of the invention, said first mathematical model is a machine learning model. In a possible embodiment of the invention, it can be preferred to use a CPU, GPU, microcontroller, etc. as the processor unit (40). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the memory unit (50) can comprise a combination of memories that store data permanently and, if necessary, also temporarily.

[0065] According to all these described embodiments, the circulation support device (10) of the invention can monitor the instantaneous body data of the person and operate the pusher assembly (20) accordingly, providing circulatory support at the right time. The pusher assembly (20) is preferably operated in a way that gives the person the effect of 30-60 steps per minute while gaining the blood circulation rate in the walking position. In this way, edema in the legs, increased venous pressure, development of venous valve damage, blood pooling in the legs, vein clotting, pulmonary embolism due to clotting in the legs are prevented while the person is sitting or immobile, and it can be used in preventive treatment, treatment and post-treatment processes for circulatory problems such as vena saphena magna and parva insufficiency, perforating vein insufficiency, venous valve diseases, deep vein insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, thrombophilebitis. In addition, it can be used to accelerate physical therapy healing processes, to accelerate healing processes after surgical operations, to prevent the development of venous diseases and embolism after surgery, to prevent travel thrombosis, edema, and circulatory disorders that develop due to prolonged sitting on long journeys.

[0066] In the circulation support device (10), the structure providing circulatory support is positioned such that it compresses only on the vein. In this way, unlike existing solutions such as compression stockings, compression is not applied to the entire calf, and the compression required for blood flow support is applied only to the region needed. A belt or similar structure is sufficient for attaching the device body to the calf.

[0067] The scope of protection of the invention is specified in the appended claims and cannot be limited to what is described for illustrative purposes in this detailed description. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can produce similar embodiments in the light of what is explained above, without deviating from the main theme of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A wearable circulation support device (10), which is attached to the calf of the person and includes a pusher assembly (20) having at least three pushers (21), arranged in line with a vertical axis (I), that sequentially apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart, characterized in that it comprises: at least one detector unit (30) comprising at least one of a pulse sensor (30.1), an oximeter (30.2), and an edema detector (30.3) to enable the acquisition of at least one physiological parameter from the pulse, tissue oxygenation, and edema parameters of the person; a processor unit (40) configured to enable said physiological parameter to be compared with a reference physiological parameter and, in the event that the physiological parameter is found to be outside said reference parameter, to operate the pusher (21) closest to the foot of the person in the vertical axis (I) first and the pusher (21) closest to the thigh of the person in the vertical axis (I) last.

2. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that said processor unit (40) is configured to keep a pusher in a compressed state thereafter, to retract pushers (21) closer to the foot of the person on axis (I) than said compressed pusher (21), and to bring at least one of the other retracted pushers (21) into a compressed state when retracting said compressed pusher (21).

3. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that said processor unit is further configured to retract the other pushers (21) while the pusher (21) closest to the thigh of the person in axis (I) is in compressed state, and to enable all of the other pushers (21) to apply compression while the pusher (21) closest to the thigh of the person in axis (I) is retracted.

4. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a processor unit (40) and a memory unit (50) for storing associated data.

5. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the pusher (21) is a linear actuator.

6. A circulatory support device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a user interface (60) for transmitting an actuation signal to said processor unit (40) to enable remote actuation of the pusher assembly (20).

7. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a rigid body (11), and said rigid body (11) comprises a flexible face (12) on a calf-facing portion thereof.

8. A circulation support device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises at least one belt holder (13) to allow a belt to be connected to said rigid body (11) for connecting the circulation support device (10) to the leg.

9. A method performed by means of a processor unit (40) in a wearable circulation support device (10) according to Claim 1, which is attached to the calf of the person and includes a pusher assembly (20) having at least three pushers (21) that sequentially apply pressure to the calf to promote the movement of blood in the veins passing through the calf region toward the heart, characterized in that it comprises the process steps of:■ acquiring a physiological parameter from the detector unit (30), including at least one of the parameter groups of pulse, tissue oxygenation, and edema,■ comparing a physiological parameter with a reference physiological parameter,■ if it is detected that the physiological parameter is at a value other than the reference physiological parameter, actuating the pusher assembly (20) so as to activate the pusher (21) closest to the person's foot on the vertical axis (I) first and the pusher (21) closest to the person's thigh on the vertical axis (I) last.

10. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises the process steps of: keeping a pusher (21) in compressed state, retracting the pushers (21) closer to the person's foot on the axis (I) than said pushers (21) in compressed state, and compressing the other retracted pushers (21) while the pusher (21) in compressed state is retracted.

11. A method according to claim 10, characterized by retracting the other pushers (21) while the pusher (21) closest to the thigh of the person on the axis (I) is held in compressed state, and retracting the pusher (21) closest to the thigh of the person on the axis (I) while all the other pushers (21) apply compression.

12. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises the process step of applying the physiological parameter as input to a first mathematical model that outputs the working order information of the pusher group (20) when the at least one physiological parameter trained by the physiological habits of the person is received as input, and outputting the working order information of the pusher group (20).

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