Modular Vibration Therapy Apparatus for Muscle Atrophy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for addressing disuse atrophy, such as harness-based treadmills and electrical stimulation, are costly, impractical for users with limited mobility, and often cause discomfort, while existing vibration therapy systems lack precise control over therapeutic parameters.
Innovation Solution
A motorized system that applies controlled therapeutic vibration and biasing force to user limbs, allowing adjustable speed, duration, and vibration parameters, with integrated sensors to monitor and adjust treatment based on user response, enabling personalized therapy profiles and strength assessments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If harness-based treadmills and aquatic therapy pools are used to enable physical activity under partial bodyweight loading, then physical activity capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus segments the therapeutic function into modular components: a vibration generator for muscle stimulation, a biasing force mechanism for controlled loading, and a range of motion system for limb movement. Each component can be independently adjusted and combined to create customized therapy protocols without requiring complex integrated systems like harness-based treadmills.
2Strength
If electrical stimulation is used to induce muscle activation, then muscle strength maintenance is improved, but user comfort deteriorates due to discomfort and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses mechanical vibration generated by an eccentric rotating mass motor to stimulate muscle contractions. This mechanical stimulation method avoids the discomfort and pain associated with electrical stimulation while still effectively inducing muscle activation and maintaining muscle strength. The vibration is transmitted through a platform that the user's limb contacts, providing comfortable yet effective therapy.
3Strength
If whole body vibration therapy is provided with user standing on a vibrating platform, then muscle activation is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the vibration therapy from the requirement of full body weight-bearing. Users with limited mobility can receive vibration therapy to specific limbs while in a seated or supported position, eliminating the need to stand on a vibrating platform. The vibration generator can be applied locally to the target limb, making the therapy accessible to users with various mobility levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus introduces an intermediary support system that allows users to receive vibration therapy without bearing full body weight. This intermediary structure provides the necessary support while delivering vibration to the target limb, bridging the gap between effective muscle activation and accessibility for users with limited mobility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If vibration therapy parameters are not precisely controlled, then treatment versatility is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor vibration parameters, range of motion, and user response in real-time. This feedback allows the system to maintain precise control over therapy parameters while still offering versatile treatment options. The controller can adjust vibration frequency, amplitude, and duration based on sensor input, ensuring accurate delivery of prescribed therapy protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control capabilities that allow therapy parameters to be adjusted during treatment based on user response. The vibration frequency, amplitude, and other parameters can be modified in real-time while maintaining precise control, enabling the system to adapt to changing user needs without sacrificing measurement accuracy.
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 effectively reverses disuse atrophy by providing customizable and safe vibration therapy, improving muscle strength and range of motion, while reducing discomfort and operational complexity, and enabling monitoring of physiological responses for enhanced treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration system in communication with the drive plate to provide a vibratory force to the drive plate
Implementation Method 2
the sensor is a load sensor operable to detect the amount of axial resistance provided by a user
Data Source
AI summary
An intelligent press machine, primarily for use with the legs, although the machine can also be used for upper body workouts. The intelligent press machine provides for varying resistance and vibration levels to stimulate muscle growth.