Portable Compression System with Automatic Garment Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sequential compression devices for preventing deep vein thrombosis are cumbersome, limiting patient mobility and comfort, and often require discontinuation of vascular therapy during tasks or transport due to their bulkiness and need for wall power.
Innovation Solution
A portable compression treatment system with a controller that includes a processor, pneumatic control circuit, single pressure sensor, and solenoid valves, allowing for automatic detection of connected garments, continuous operation on battery power, and adaptable for inflating thigh, calf, and foot sleeves, facilitating patient mobility and continuous vascular therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sequential compression devices are made portable with battery power and automatic garment detection, then patient mobility and comfort are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically detects the type of garment connected to the system and configures the compression therapy parameters without requiring manual input from the user. The system self-adjusts based on the detected garment type (e.g., thigh-high, knee-high, foot sleeve), enabling portable use while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression system is designed to work with multiple types of garments simultaneously through a single controller that can detect and adapt to different garment configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve various compression needs without requiring separate specialized equipment for each garment type.
2Reliability
If the controller assembly is mounted to the bed and plugged into wall outlet, then power supply is reliable, but patient mobility is limited and therapy must be discontinued during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, wall-powered configuration to a dynamic, battery-powered portable configuration. The controller can operate in multiple power modes, allowing the patient to remain mobile while receiving continuous compression therapy during transport and daily activities without being constrained to a fixed bed-mounted position.
3Ease of operation
If the system automatically detects garment type and adapts compression parameters, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pressure sensors to continuously monitor the compression pressure applied to the garment and provides feedback to the controller. Based on this feedback and the detected garment type, the controller automatically adjusts the compression parameters to maintain therapeutic effectiveness. The system can detect garment type by analyzing pressure distribution patterns and makes real-time adjustments without requiring precise manual measurement or input from the user.
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 continuous and comfortable vascular therapy, accommodating patient mobility and tasks without interruptions, using a compact design that automatically detects and adapts to different sleeves, ensuring effective prevention of deep vein thrombosis and peripheral edema.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a pressure at the selected valve; comparing the measured pressure to stored values of pressure
Implementation Method 2
providing pressurized air through the selected valve; providing air through the selected valve
Data Source
AI summary
A compression treatment system is provided that detects the number of and type of garments connected thereto. The system includes a plurality of ports, valves connected thereto and a number of garments having one or more bladders. The bladders are in fluid communication with a fluid source in a pneumatic circuit, to provide compression therapy once a user confirms the number of and type of garments connected to the system for use by a patient. A single pressure sensor communicates with a plurality of detected bladders located in the one or more garments.