Portable Micro Air Pump for Intermittent Pneumatic Compression
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current deep vein thrombosis prevention systems, particularly air pumps used in intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, face challenges in portability, customization, reliability, and safety due to size, power requirements, and the need for precise pressure control, which can lead to increased risk of clotting during patient movement or extended inactivity.
Innovation Solution
A portable micro air pump designed for intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, featuring a compact, user-friendly design with adjustable pressure settings, alarm indicators, and a battery-powered system that allows for customizable treatment parameters and real-time monitoring, ensuring safe and effective blood flow through the use of a flexible air supply tube and electronic circuit board for precise pressure control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a portable micro air pump is used for intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, then portability and ease of movement are improved, but precise pressure control and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure control systems with electronic control mechanisms. A microprocessor-based control system monitors and adjusts air pressure through electronic sensors and actuators, enabling precise pressure regulation in a compact portable device. This substitution allows the pump to maintain reliable pressure control while reducing size and weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements adjustable pressure parameters through electronic control. The system allows users to program specific pressure values and inflation/deflation cycles, with the microprocessor dynamically adjusting pressure delivery to match therapeutic requirements. This parameter flexibility ensures both portability and precise pressure control can coexist.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable pressure settings and customization features are added, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the control system to perform multiple functions through a single integrated microprocessor unit. The same processor handles pressure regulation, timing control, alarm monitoring, and user interface management. This multi-functionality approach allows extensive customization capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic pressure regulation and cycle timing that operates without continuous user intervention. The microprocessor automatically adjusts pressure delivery based on pre-programmed parameters, and the alarm system self-monitors for proper garment inflation and deflation. This self-service capability reduces the burden on users while maintaining high adaptability.
3Reliability
If alarm indicators and real-time monitoring are implemented, then safety and reliability are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm and monitoring systems operate periodically rather than continuously. The microprocessor checks pressure levels, garment inflation status, and system integrity at scheduled intervals during the compression cycles. This periodic operation provides comprehensive safety monitoring while minimizing power consumption during battery operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from pressure sensors and alarm indicators to trigger only when necessary. The microprocessor monitors system state and activates alarms or adjustments only when deviations from normal operation are detected, rather than maintaining constant high-power monitoring mode. This feedback-driven approach balances safety with power efficiency.
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 portable micro air pump effectively prevents deep vein thrombosis by providing customizable and reliable intermittent pneumatic compression, reducing the risk of clot formation and allowing for continuous blood flow during patient movement, thereby minimizing the risk of pulmonary embolism.
Implementation Method 1
The air supply tube is connected to an input port on the garment and to the air supply output port of the micro air pump via industrystandard air tube connectors. The user then presses the power button, and selects the garment type being used by using the garment selection button. Once activated, the micro air pump provides a periodic air supply to the garment through the flexible air supply tube leading to an air chamber in the garment.
Implementation Method 2
The air-filled chamber, when pressurized to a predetermined pressure, provides additional pressure on the leg of the patient to urge blood flow further upward through the leg.
Implementation Method 3
A portable micro air pump designed for intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, featuring a compact, user-friendly design with adjustable pressure settings, alarm indicators, and a battery-powered system that allows for customizable treatment parameters and real-time monitoring, ensuring safe and effective blood flow through the use of a flexible air supply tube and electronic circuit board for precise pressure control.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable micro air pump includes a body, an air output port and a quick-disconnect air tube connector. The body is hand-sized, and has a user control and information panel with a power on/off button switch and a button switch for choosing which type of therapy garment is to be utilized, limb or foot. Status lights within the information panel show on/off and battery status, the therapy garment selected and alarm states of which the user needs to be aware. Within the body are an air compressor with an air output tube, a battery power source, and an electronic circuit board. The electronic circuit board has functional subunits including: a controller, a timer, a memory, an input/output interface, a pressure sensor, a status light driver and a power control driver.