Segmented Vibration Modules for Diaphragm Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for stimulating the diaphragm to treat hypoventilation and respiratory depression are either too restrictive, painful, or ineffective, often requiring specific positions and professional operation, and lack targeted muscle stimulation.
Innovation Solution
A belt with at least two vibration modules, each comprising a pod with a vibration pad and a motor, controlled by an electronic circuit to provide directed biomechanical stimulation to the diaphragm, enhancing pulmonary function and allowing for easy use in various positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex vibration generators with mechanical drive units are used for targeted muscle stimulation, then stimulation effectiveness is improved, but device size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent vibration modules (first, second, and third modules) that can be separately positioned on the body. Each module contains its own vibration generator, allowing targeted stimulation of specific muscle groups without requiring a single large heavy unit. This segmentation enables effective localized treatment while keeping individual module weights manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical drive units with electromagnetic vibration generators. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical components while maintaining effective vibration delivery. The electromagnetic generators provide sufficient stimulation power in a compact form factor, resolving the contradiction between effectiveness and weight.
2Adaptability or versatility
If whole body vibration devices are used for muscle stimulation, then general physical mobility is improved, but localized muscle targeting is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device consists of multiple separable vibration modules that can be independently positioned on different body parts. This allows the same device to target specific muscle groups (localized application) while maintaining a compact size. The modular design provides adaptability for different treatment scenarios without requiring a large whole-body apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration modules can be applied to various body locations and used for different therapeutic purposes, making the device universally applicable. The same compact module can stimulate respiratory muscles, improve circulation in different regions, or address various muscle conditions, providing multi-functionality without increasing device size.
3Reliability
If electro-stimulation is applied directly to skin for muscle stimulation, then muscle activation is achieved, but pain and discomfort occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electro-stimulation with mechanical vibration stimulation. The vibration generators deliver mechanical oscillations through contact with the skin, which effectively activate muscles without the pain and discomfort associated with electrical currents. This mechanical approach provides effective muscle activation while eliminating harmful electrical effects.
4Reliability
If large complex stimulation devices are used for respiratory treatment, then treatment effectiveness is improved, but portability and ease of use are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The respiratory stimulation device is segmented into multiple small vibration modules that can be independently positioned on the chest and abdomen. This segmentation allows effective treatment of respiratory muscles while making the device portable and easy to wear. The modular design eliminates the need for large fixed equipment, enabling patients to receive treatment at home or on the go.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable vibration module device enables patients to self-administer respiratory stimulation therapy without requiring trained professionals or large complex equipment. The simple wearable design with intuitive positioning allows patients to independently apply and control their treatment, greatly improving ease of operation and accessibility.
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 device effectively stimulates the diaphragm to improve breathing, reduce heart and breathing rates, and enhance sleep quality, with immediate results and no observed side effects, making it suitable for various age groups and stress-related issues.
Implementation Method 1
The vibration motor comprises a coil and a magnetic field in close proximity to one another without touching each other, wherein the vibration motor is actuated by an alternating current
Implementation Method 2
The vibration motors are mounted to the vibration pad via at least one elastic motor housing
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a stimulation device comprising: a belt (10) containing at least two vibration modules (5, 7, 9), wherein each of the at least two vibration modules (5, 7, 9) comprises: a pod (4) with a casing (6, 26) and a vibration pad (24) arranged within the casing (6, 26), and a vibration motor (20) with a flywheel (28) within the housing (6, 26), a control panel (15) operating said vibration motors (20) of the at least two vibration modules (5, 7, 9); wherein the vibration motors (20) are mounted to the vibration pad (24) via at least one elastic motor housing (22). The invention further discloses the use of such a device for treating hypoventilation and respiratory depression and a method of treating hypoventilation and respiratory depression by fastening a belt (10) to the abdomen of a user and operating the belt (10), wherein the at least two vibration modules are externally applied to an abdominal region of a user to stimulate the diaphragm, to enhance pulmonary function.