Modular Compression Garment System for Edema Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack a customizable and readily available compressive device to effectively manage excessive interstitial fluid accumulation, such as edema, which is essential for reducing swelling, pain relief, and preventing infection and blood clot formation.
Innovation Solution
A modular compression garment system with adjustable bands and attachment mechanisms, utilizing elastomeric materials and semi-compressible layers, allows for customizable compression levels and application to various body parts, including limbs and trunks, with options for temporary or permanent attachment methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a compression device is designed to be customizable and adjustable for different body parts, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression device is divided into multiple independent bands that can be selectively attached to different body parts. Each band is a separate module that can be configured independently, allowing customization without requiring a completely different device for each body part. This segmentation enables the same basic device structure to serve multiple purposes while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs universal attachment mechanisms and standardized band designs that can be applied to various body parts including limbs and trunks. The same attachment system used for arm compression can be used for leg compression, reducing the number of different device types needed and simplifying the overall system while maintaining high adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If compression bands are made with adjustable attachment mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanisms are designed to be dynamic and adjustable, allowing users to modify the compression level and positioning by reconfiguring the bands. The bands can be attached, detached, and repositioned as needed, providing operational flexibility without requiring complex mechanical systems. The dynamics of the attachment system enable simple user adjustments while maintaining structural integrity.
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 system provides effective reduction of interstitial fluids, supports tissues, relieves fatigue, and allows for easy access to affected areas while maintaining therapeutic compression, thereby aiding in wound closure and preventing complications.
Implementation Method 1
The compression garment system includes an inner layer, an outer layer and an elastomeric compression material layer
Implementation Method 2
a semi-compressible foam layer (110) between the inner layer (114) and the outer layer (112)
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for applying pressure to a body part comprising multiple interconnectable bands of compressible or noncompressible material. Optional spine to further interconnect the bands. Interconnectable pieces designed for covering specific body areas. Modular arrangement of the individual components. Customized or off-the-shelf availability of the apparatus.