Body-Worn TTF Carrier Layout for Mobility Without Cable Strain
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Tumor-Treating Field (TTF) systems tether subjects to signal generators, causing cable strain, wear, and unwanted attention due to bulky luggage-like carriers, limiting mobility and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A carrier system with a body that securely attaches to the subject's body, housing the electric-signal generator and transducer arrays, allowing for unrestricted movement and reduced cable length, with discreet design options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the subject is tethered to the signal generator by cables, then the signal generator can be carried in a handbag, but the subject's mobility is limited and cables experience strain and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the signal generator into separate modular units that can be distributed across multiple body-worn carriers rather than consolidated in a single handbag. This segmentation allows the subject to move freely while each module remains securely attached to different parts of the body, eliminating cable strain between a fixed handbag and the transducer arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces body-worn carriers as intermediary devices that attach directly to the subject's body at multiple locations. These carriers serve as intermediate mounting points for signal generator modules and transducer arrays, replacing the need for long cables connecting a handbag-mounted generator to body-mounted arrays.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the handbag resembles luggage to minimize tripping hazards, then safety is improved, but the subject draws unwanted attention and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system breaks down the single visible handbag into multiple small, distributed body-worn carriers that attach to different parts of the subject's body. This segmentation transforms a large, conspicuous luggage-like handbag into several small, discrete components that are less noticeable and blend better with the subject's attire.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a ground-based handbag (occupying horizontal space and creating tripping hazards) to body-mounted carriers (occupying vertical space on the subject's body). This dimensional change eliminates the tripping hazard while distributing the system components across the subject's body in a more discreet manner.
3Ease of operation
If the subject moves freely without being tethered, then mobility is improved, but the transducer arrays may be pulled from the desired position
Solution Approach 1:
The system attaches transducer arrays and signal generator modules to different body locations using separate carriers, segmenting the system so that movement of one component does not necessarily affect others. This distributed architecture allows the subject to move freely while each component remains independently secured at its designated position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic, adjustable carriers that can adapt to the subject's movements and body position changes. These carriers use flexible mounting mechanisms that maintain secure attachment while accommodating natural body motion, ensuring transducer arrays remain in desired positions during activities like walking, sitting, or exercising.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for applying Tumor-Treating Fields to a portion of a body of a subject is disclosed. The system comprises a carrier having a carrier body that defines a receiving space and a coupling apparatus that is configured to fixedly couple the carrier body to a first location on the body of the subject. An electric-signal generator is at least partially received within the receiving space of the carrier body. At least one transducer array is in electrical communication with the electric-signal generator. Each transducer array of the at least one transducer array is configured for secure placement at a respective second location on the body of the subject, wherein the respective second location is different than the first location.