Flexible Thermal Eye Compress Frame for Continuous Contact

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing thermal compress devices face challenges in consistently and comfortably applying thermal energy to the eye region due to the contour of the anatomy, leading to discomfort and ineffective energy transfer.

Innovation Solution

A therapeutic device featuring a flexible frame, coupling portion, and insulating portion that transitions between configurations to ensure continuous contact and controlled thermal energy transfer, using a thermal therapeutic member that can deform to fit the eye region and distribute force evenly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid frame is used to support the thermal pack, then the structural stability is improved, but the comfort and adaptability to the eye region contour deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidcomfort and adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can change its configuration. The flexible frame can deform to adapt to the contour of the eye region while maintaining structural integrity, and can be transitioned between different states (e.g., compressed for application, expanded for removal)

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a flexible frame structure that replaces rigid components with flexible elements. This flexible frame can conform to the curved surface of the eye region, providing both structural support and anatomical adaptability, thereby resolving the contradiction between stability and comfort

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If manual intervention is used to hold the cloth in place, then the thermal energy application is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates for users with ailments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal energy applicationVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is designed to apply and maintain thermal energy to the eye region without requiring continuous manual intervention. The flexible frame structure maintains contact with the eye region through its own structural properties, allowing the system to serve itself by maintaining therapeutic contact automatically

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If a frame with fixed configuration is used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different users and conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing precisionVSAvoidadaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is designed with flexible properties that allow it to adapt its configuration dynamically. While manufactured with precise specifications, the flexible material allows the frame to deform and adapt to different user anatomies and application conditions, achieving both manufacturing precision and adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 provides consistent and comfortable thermal therapy to the eye region by ensuring continuous contact and controlled thermal energy transfer, enhancing user comfort and therapeutic effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

The insulating portion at least partially controls a transfer of thermal energy between the thermal therapeutic member and the target portion of the body

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

The flexible frame is configured to support a thermal therapeutic member and is transitioned between a first configuration and a second configuration to place the therapeutic member in substantially continuous contact with a target portion of the body

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS11076983B2Thermal eye compress systems and methods of use

Publication Date: 2021.08.03 BISER SETH A

AI summary

An apparatus includes a flexible frame, a coupling portion, and an insulating portion. The flexible frame is configured to support a thermal therapeutic member and is transitioned between a first configuration and a second configuration to place the therapeutic member in substantially continuous contact with a target portion of the body. The coupling portion is coupled to the flexible frame and is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to retain the flexible frame in its second configuration. The insulating portion is transitioned from a first configuration to a second configuration to be coupled to the flexible frame. The insulating portion at least partially controls a transfer of thermal energy between the thermal therapeutic member and the target portion of the body.