Bilateral Compression Device for Periocular Swelling Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Post-operative ophthalmic procedures often result in swelling, pain, and bruising due to fluid accumulation, with existing compression methods being inadequate for bilateral eye treatments, causing discomfort and increased risk of injury from non-removable eye patches that can elevate ocular pressure and lead to visual impairment.

Innovation Solution

A bilateral compression device with a central cavity and circumscribing sidewall, featuring an outer and inner membrane system that applies adjustable compressive forces to the periocular area, conforming to the user's contours and allowing for varying tension adjustment, to reduce swelling and discomfort while preventing excessive ocular pressure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If traditional eye patches are used for compression, then compression is applied to the periocular area, but ocular pressure increases excessively causing discomfort and potential visual impairment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression forceVSAvoidocular pressure
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The compression device is divided into multiple independent compression members (first compression member for first eye, second compression member for second eye) that can be independently adjusted. Each compression member can be positioned and adjusted separately to apply compression only where needed, avoiding excessive pressure on the ocular globe while maintaining effective periocular compression for reducing swelling and bruising.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device provides differentiated compression forces at different locations. The compression members are designed to apply pressure to the periocular area (eyelids and surrounding tissues) while preserving the central ocular area from excessive pressure. The contoured surfaces and adjustable positioning allow localized compression tailored to the specific anatomical requirements of reducing edema and bruising without compromising ocular health.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Duration of action of stationary object

If non-removable eye patches are used, then compression is continuous, but patient mobility is restricted and anxiety increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression durationVSAvoidpatient mobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The compression device transitions from a static, non-removable patch to a dynamic, removable system. The compression members can be easily attached and removed by the patient, allowing them to wear the device during activities requiring mobility (such as walking or driving) while removing it during activities requiring visual clarity. This dynamic adjustability maintains compression effectiveness while significantly improving patient quality of life and mobility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If frequent ice compresses are applied, then swelling and bruising are reduced, but physical and psychological discomfort increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswelling and bruisingVSAvoidpatient comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring frequent removal and reapplication of ice compresses, the compression device provides continuous compression throughout the day. The device can be worn during activities requiring mobility (walking, driving, household tasks) and removed only when visual clarity is needed, eliminating the need for frequent interruptions and improving patient comfort while maintaining consistent anti-swelling and anti-bruising effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device effectively reduces bruising, swelling, and pain by providing controlled compression that is adjustable and safe, minimizing the risk of ocular pressure increases and allowing for visual monitoring, thereby enhancing patient recovery and safety.

Implementation Method 1

an outer membrane separated from an inner membrane for exerting a central compressive force towards the post-operative surgical area

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

The tension on the elastic band may be adjusted as desired for adjusting the compressive forces exerted by the bilateral compression device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11877971B2Bilateral compression device
Publication Date: 2024.01.23 MCCANN JOHN
  • US11877971B2 patent drawing
  • US11877971B2 patent drawing
  • US11877971B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides an improved bilateral compression device for post-operative surgical site, the bilateral compression device including a central cavity presented by an outerwall and a circumscribing sidewall, the central cavity in receipt of a post-operative pillow further comprising an outer membrane separated from an inner membrane for exerting a central compressive force towards the post-operative surgical area which varies from a surrounding compression force.