Manual Crank Compression Device for Body Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression devices for body parts, such as those used for Deep Vein Thrombosis prophylaxis, suffer from low power-to-weight ratio, bulkiness, short battery life, and high cost due to the use of electromagnetic or pneumatic actuators, which also lack control over force output and are inefficient in energy use.
Innovation Solution
A device utilizing active material actuators, specifically electroactive polymers, ceramics, and shape memory materials, which provide a compact, cost-effective, and efficient means of applying compressive force through stepwise tightening, utilizing asymmetric or reciprocating cyclic motions and amplification mechanisms to achieve sufficient force and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If electromagnetic motors are used to pull the strap, then the device can provide compressive force, but the power to weight ratio becomes low and the device becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic motors with a mechanical hand-cranking system. The user manually rotates a crank that winds the compression member around the body part, eliminating the need for heavy electromagnetic motors and complex power transmission mechanisms. This mechanical substitution directly resolves the contradiction by providing compressive force through human-powered mechanical advantage rather than electric motors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reel and compression member system as an intermediary between the user's manual input and the body part. The reel mechanism amplifies the user's cranking motion to wind the compression member tightly around the body part, providing the necessary compressive force without requiring a heavy motorized system.
2Force
If conventional electromagnetic motors with reciprocating motion are used, then compression can be applied, but battery life becomes short due to low efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic motor-driven reciprocating mechanism with a direct manual cranking system. This eliminates energy losses associated with electromagnetic conversion, power transmission through gears and belts, and reciprocating motion conversion. The user's mechanical input is directly transferred to winding the compression member, achieving high energy efficiency and eliminating battery requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand-cranking mechanism allows for continuous compression application as long as the user continues to crank. Unlike reciprocating motors that require periodic cycling and have idle periods, the manual system provides continuous compressive force during operation, maximizing the utility of the energy input and eliminating the need for frequent recharging.
3Force
If electromagnetic motors are used, then the device can operate, but the device complexity increases due to the need for complex locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized compression with a manual cranking system that uses a reel and friction-based holding mechanism. The compression member remains wound around the body part through the reel, and friction between the member and the reel surface, combined with the reel's geometry, naturally maintains the compressive force without requiring complex electronic locking mechanisms or motors.
4Force
If solenoid actuators are used for cuff constriction, then the device can provide compression, but the power to weight ratio becomes low and the device becomes heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solenoid actuators with a manual hand-cranking mechanism. The user's mechanical input through the crank directly winds the compression member around the body part, eliminating the need for heavy solenoid actuators and their associated power supplies. This mechanical substitution achieves the same constriction function with minimal device weight.
5Force
If pneumatic actuators with bladders are used, then the device can provide compression, but the power to weight ratio becomes low and the device becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pneumatic actuators with a direct mechanical winding system. The compression member is wound around the body part using a hand-cranked reel, eliminating the need for pneumatic compressors, valves, accumulators, and bladders. This mechanical system achieves compression through friction and geometric constraint rather than pneumatic pressure, dramatically reducing device weight and bulk.
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 achieves a high power-to-weight ratio, long battery life, and cost-effectiveness while providing controlled and efficient compressive treatment, suitable for ambulatory use and various medical and non-medical applications.
Implementation Method 1
The actuation unit comprises an active material actuator
Implementation Method 2
specifically electroactive polymers, ceramics, and shape memory materials
Implementation Method 3
specifically electroactive polymers, ceramics, and shape memory materials
Data Source
AI summary
A device for compressive treatment of a body part includes a compression member, adapted to at least partly encircle the body part, and an actuation unit, arranged to tighten the compression member to provide a compressive force to the body part. Methods are provided for its therapeutic, cosmetic and non-therapeutic use and operation.