Modular Compression Module for Bedside Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional compression therapy systems for promoting blood flow are often limited by the need for stand-alone pump units that are not portable and lack integration with healthcare facility networks, making it difficult to provide continuous and efficient compression therapy both in-bed and out-of-bed.
Innovation Solution
A compression therapy system that includes a modular design allowing the compression module to couple with various patient-support apparatuses, such as beds and headwalls, enabling integration with healthcare facility networks for data communication and power, and featuring a portable housing with multiple carrying options, allowing for continuous therapy both in-bed and during ambulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stand-alone pump unit is used for compression therapy, then the system can provide compression therapy, but the system lacks portability and cannot be easily moved between in-bed and out-of-bed use
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a compression module that can be detached from the bed, a portable housing unit, and a compression sleeve. This segmentation allows the compression module to be easily removed and transferred to different locations (bedside table, portable housing) without moving the entire bed system, thereby achieving portability while maintaining functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression module is designed to interface with multiple platforms: it can couple to the bed's side rail, attach to a portable housing unit, or connect directly to a compression sleeve. This multi-functionality enables the same core component to serve multiple purposes and locations, resolving the contradiction between portability and system integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a portable compression module is used, then portability is improved, but battery life is limited and requires frequent recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The portable housing unit combines a battery-powered compression module with an AC power adapter that plugs into external power sources. This merging allows the system to operate independently (using battery power for portability) while also being capable of continuous operation via AC power when available, effectively extending the operational duration without compromising portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The AC power adapter acts as an intermediary between the portable compression module and external power sources. It enables the battery-powered device to be recharged or operated continuously via AC power when the module is docked with the portable housing unit, thus extending battery life effectively while maintaining the portability of the compressed module itself.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the compression module is integrated with the bed, then continuous therapy is possible, but the system becomes less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture separates the compression module from the bed structure, allowing the module to be coupled to the bed for continuous therapy during hospitalization, then easily detached and transferred to a portable housing unit or bedside table for continued therapy at home. This segmentation enables the system to provide continuous therapy while maintaining portability when needed.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the compression module is made modular and detachable, then portability is improved, but the system requires multiple coupling mechanisms and interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The compression module incorporates universal coupling interfaces designed to work with multiple attachment points: bed side rails, portable housing units, and compression sleeves all use compatible connection mechanisms. This universality reduces the need for different specialized coupling mechanisms for each application, simplifying the overall system despite the modular, detachable design.
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
Enables efficient and continuous compression therapy both in-bed and out-of-bed, conserving battery life by utilizing facility power, and providing portability through various carrying mechanisms, enhancing patient mobility and treatment flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
the compression module carries a pressure generator that operates to inflate the compression sleeve through the conduit
Implementation Method 2
the compression module couples to an external pressure source and a valve of the compression module is operated to control the application of pressure from the external pressure source to the compression sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A system for compression therapy includes a patient-support apparatus and a compression sleeve assembly that is coupleable to the patient-support apparatus. In some embodiments, the patient-support apparatus includes a hospital bed and in other embodiments, the patient-support apparatus includes a mattress for a bed. The compression sleeve assembly includes a sleeve that couples to a patient's limb and that inflates to promote blood flow. The compression sleeve assembly also includes a conduit and a compression module that is operable to inflate the sleeve through the conduit. The conduit may be routed, at least in part, through the associated patient-support apparatus. The compression module may be situated, at least in part, in a cavity of the associated patient-support apparatus. A compression module may be coupled to an architectural structure, such as a headwall unit.