Adjustable Therapeutic Apparatus for Limb Compression and Thermal Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing therapeutic devices for limb compression and thermal therapy are not adjustable in height, leading to uncomfortable positioning, swelling, and pain, and are complex to operate, making them difficult for elderly individuals to use without assistance.
Innovation Solution
A therapeutic apparatus with telescopic support bars and pads that can be adjusted in height and angle, equipped with pressure actuators and a motor for compression and thermal therapy, allowing users to position their limbs comfortably and operate the device independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device height is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot position the limb in a comfortable position leading to swelling and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements height adjustability through telescopic support bars with locking mechanisms, allowing the device to adapt to different user heights and limb positions. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by enabling comfortable positioning while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through standardized adjustment increments.
2Ease of operation
If the device uses complex adjustment mechanisms, then the limb can be positioned at desired height, but elderly people find it difficult to operate without assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates easy-to-operate height adjustment mechanisms with clear indicators and simple locking/unlocking actions that enable elderly users to independently adjust the device to their desired height without requiring assistance. The self-service capability is achieved through intuitive controls and stable locking mechanisms that provide confidence during operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If another person operates the device to position the limb, then the limb can be positioned correctly, but the device requires assistance and cannot be used independently
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates visual indicators and tactile feedback mechanisms that guide users in positioning their limbs at the correct height and angle. The feedback system provides real-time information about the current position and confirms when the optimal position is reached, enabling users to achieve accurate positioning independently without requiring assistance from another person.
Data Source
AI summary
A therapeutic apparatus for supporting a limb and compressing the limb. The therapeutic apparatus includes a housing, and a plurality of telescopic support bars mounted underneath of the housing. The therapeutic apparatus includes a plurality of pads, a pad is mounted to one the telescopic support bars. The therapeutic apparatus includes a plurality of pressure actuators provided at each of the pads. The therapeutic apparatus further includes a motor electrically coupled to the telescopic support bars, the pads and the pressure actuators. A limb is received at an opening of the pad, and the motor is operated to adjust the height of the telescopic support bars and to adjust the angle of the pads. The motor is further operated to engage the pressure actuators to compress and to apply heat or cool to the limb to prevent blood clots and swelling and pain at the limb or calf.