Programmable Pressing Means for Spinal Muscle Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current massage and physiotherapy tables face challenges in accurately positioning and maintaining pressure on muscle bands along the spinal column, as existing instruments tend to slip and require manual adjustment, leading to inconsistent pressure and treatment efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A treatment table with programmable pressing means, including symmetrically arranged punches with kinematic systems for horizontal and vertical movement, controlled by a unit to selectively assume active or idle positions, ensuring precise and consistent pressure application along the spinal column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If simple tubular or spherical instruments are positioned manually on the treatment table, then the structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the positioning precision and stability deteriorate as the instruments slip and require constant manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing motorized pressing means that can automatically move along the spinal column and adjust their position dynamically. The pressing means include motors and drive mechanisms that enable automated longitudinal movement, eliminating the need for manual repositioning and maintaining precise positioning throughout the treatment session.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Self-service principle through the automated control system that manages the positioning and movement of pressing means without continuous operator intervention. The system can autonomously adjust the position of pressing elements along the spinal column based on pre-programmed treatment protocols, allowing the device to serve itself in maintaining optimal positioning.
2Reliability
If manual positioning of pressing instruments is used, then the device complexity remains low, but the treatment consistency and reliability worsen due to operator fatigue and variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Feedback principle through the control unit that monitors and adjusts the position and pressure of the pressing means. The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that provide real-time feedback on the position of pressing elements, enabling automatic corrections to maintain consistent treatment pressure and positioning throughout the session.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Mechanics substitution principle by replacing manual mechanical positioning with an automated motorized system. The pressing means are equipped with motors, drive shafts, and control units that substitute human operators in the task of positioning and maintaining pressure, thereby eliminating variability associated with manual operation.
3Force
If the intensity of pressure is adjusted by changing the dimensions of instruments, then pressure intensity can be varied, but the positioning difficulty and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies theParameter changesprinciple by enabling adjustment of pressure intensity through control of motorized pressing means rather than physical changes to instrument dimensions. The control unit can vary the force applied by the pressing elements independently of their size, and can rapidly adjust pressure parameters without requiring time-consuming repositioning or instrument changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies theUniversalityprinciple through pressing means that can perform multiple functions: they can apply varying intensities of pressure, move to different positions along the spinal column, and adjust their configuration. The motorized system allows a single instrument design to handle multiple treatment requirements that would otherwise require multiple different-sized instruments.
4Manufacturing precision
If symmetric positioning of pressing instruments is required for homogeneous treatment, then treatment quality improves, but the difficulty of maintaining symmetric position increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies theAsymmetryprinciple in an interesting way by using asymmetric drive mechanisms to achieve symmetric positioning. The pressing means include independent motorized drives on each side that can be controlled differently to compensate for asymmetries in the patient's anatomy or the table structure, ultimately achieving symmetric treatment pressure through controlled asymmetric actuation.
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 table allows for precise and automated stimulation of spinal muscle bands, reducing operator effort and patient discomfort, enabling personalized and effective treatments without the need for constant manual adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
a worm screw arranged parallel to the median longitudinal axis of the mattress; motor means adapted to determine the rotation of the worm screw
Implementation Method 2
a lead screw with which the slide is permanently associated
Implementation Method 3
a 'scissors' lifting system comprising at least a first and a second rod connected to each other by a central pin and each having a first and a second end; an actuator connected between the frame and the 'scissors' lifting system
Data Source
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AI summary
Treatment table (1) provided with pressing means adapted to assume appropriate positions in a programmable manner, comprising: - a frame (2); - a mattress (3) comprising a flexible supporting surface (4) for the body of a subject (S) to be treated, - pressing means (P) positioned on the opposite side from the body of the subject (S) to be treated with respect to said flexible supporting surface (4); - kinematic means for horizontal movement of said pressing means (P); - kinematic means for vertical movement of said pressing means (P); - a control unit for said means for horizontal and vertical movement. Said pressing means (P) are adapted to selectively assume an active position and an idle position by means of said means for horizontal and vertical movement, so as to coact, or not, at least in a relationship of indirect contact, with appropriate points of the body of the subject (S) being treated.