Compressor Staging for Shock Wave Apparatus Noise and Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pressure wave devices for treating human or animal bodies experience premature compressor wear and loud background noise due to variable compressor operation, which disrupts patient well-being and requires constant pressure delivery across different flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A pressure wave device with a compressor system that operates in adjustable stages, featuring a pressure regulating device to maintain a constant pressure wave generation pressure by adjusting source gas pressure across different performance levels, reducing noise and extending compressor lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the compressor operates continuously at variable power levels to maintain constant pressure across different flow rates, then pressure delivery is maintained, but compressor wear increases and background noise becomes loud and variable
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor operates in periodic cycles, switching between discrete power levels (including off) rather than running continuously at variable speeds. The control unit switches between predefined operating states based on current pressure and flow rate requirements, creating periodic on/off cycles that reduce wear and noise compared to continuous variable operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between discrete compressor power levels based on real-time pressure and flow rate conditions. The control unit adjusts the operating state by selecting from multiple predefined power levels, enabling adaptive response to changing demands while maintaining constant pressure through periodic adjustments rather than continuous variable modulation
2Reliability
If the compressor is switched on and off repeatedly to maintain pressure, then pressure control is achieved, but background noise becomes variable and perceptible to patients
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor operates in periodic cycles with multiple discrete power levels including off states. The control unit implements periodic switching between these levels based on pressure sensor feedback, maintaining pressure control while creating a more regular noise pattern that becomes less perceptible to patients compared to irregular on/off cycling
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the compressor operating parameters by switching between discrete power levels rather than using continuous variable control. The control unit selects from predefined operating states with different power levels, transforming the control approach from continuous modulation to discrete parameter switching that reduces perceptible noise variations
3Reliability
If the compressor operates at full power continuously to deliver constant pressure, then pressure delivery is ensured, but energy consumption increases and compressor wear accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor dynamically adjusts its power level based on actual pressure and flow rate demands. The control unit monitors conditions and switches between discrete power levels, enabling the compressor to operate at lower power when full capacity is not needed, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining adequate pressure delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the compressor power parameter from fixed full-power operation to variable discrete levels. The control unit selects appropriate power levels from a predefined set based on current conditions, optimizing energy usage by matching compressor output to actual demand rather than operating continuously at maximum capacity
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 solution ensures a constant and adjustable pressure wave generation, minimizing background noise and extending compressor life by allowing the compressor to operate at discrete, controlled power levels, improving patient comfort and device durability.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compressor (18) for generating source gas
Implementation Method 2
a pressure regulating device (32) for adjusting a source gas pressure (P s_i) generated by the at least one compressor
Implementation Method 3
an impact part (28) can be accelerated in order to direct the pressure wave (16) into the human or animal body
Implementation Method 4
the collision of an accelerated impact part with an impact body produces a pressure wave
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a shock wave apparatus (10) for treating a human or animal body, having: a pneumatic drive (14) for creating a shock wave (16) for coupling into the human or animal body; at least one compressor (18, 34, 36) for creating source gas; a hand piece (12) into which the source gas can be introduced and by means of which a shock wave (16) is created; and a pressure control device (32) for setting a shock wave creation pressure (PD) for creating the shock wave (16), wherein the at least one compressor (18, 34, 36) for creating source gas can be set in stages to at least two power levels (Li), and the pressure control device (32) controls the shock wave creation pressure (PD_i) by adjusting the source gas pressure (Ps_i) at each power level Li. Each power level (Li) is preferably determined by a range of shock wave creation pressure values (PD_Bi) and frequencies (fBi) of the activation of the shock waves (16). The selection of a power level (Li) is preferably made using a table in which the respective ranges of shock wave creation pressure values (PD_Bi) and frequencies (fBi) are stored.