Sequential Pressure Cuff Bladder Control for DVT Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Extended periods of immobility, such as during travel or prolonged sitting, increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and other conditions like arthritis and swelling, as they reduce blood flow and can lead to the formation of potentially fatal blood clots, for which existing preventative measures like walking are not always feasible.
Innovation Solution
A pressure cuff with adjustable bladders connected to an air compressor and control module, which inflates and deflates in a programmable pattern to stimulate blood flow, using a network of tubes and valves to optimize pressure levels and dwell times, allowing for adjustable and customizable treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a person exercises their legs by flexing muscles or walking around to prevent DVT, then blood flow is stimulated and clot formation is prevented, but mobility is required which may not be possible or desirable under certain circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical action of walking and muscle flexion with an automated pressure cuff system that uses pneumatic bladders to apply rhythmic pressure to the leg, stimulating blood flow without requiring the user to move or exercise
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure cuff system is designed to be worn by the user and automatically performs the blood flow stimulation function through its programmable control module that manages the inflation and deflation sequence of multiple bladders along the leg
2Reliability
If multiple bladders are used in the pressure cuff to provide optimized pressure levels, then blood flow stimulation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure cuff is divided into multiple independent bladders arranged along the leg, each capable of being inflated and deflated independently to provide differentiated pressure zones that optimize blood flow stimulation in different segments of the limb
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves multiple functions including managing the inflation/deflation sequence of all bladders, programming pressure patterns, controlling dwell times, and coordinating the rhythmic pressure application across all bladders, thereby consolidating control complexity into a single unit
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pressure cuff is made adjustable to fit different users and body parts, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure cuff incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow users to modify the fit and positioning of the cuff on different body parts, enabling adaptation to various users and applications while maintaining a relatively simple base structure
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 blood flow, reducing the risk of blood clot formation and alleviating associated conditions by providing a portable and adjustable means to simulate muscle activity during immobility.
Implementation Method 1
The air compressor and valves are operated by a control module powered by a power source. The control module runs the air compressor and opens the valves in succession to pressurize the bladders one after another
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable pressure cuff device is provided for the arm or leg of a user for stimulating blood flow and preventing blood clots. The pressure cuff contains a number of bladders which wrap in the direction of the cuff and which are arranged in succession down the arm or leg of a user. An air compressor is connected to the bladders via a multiplicity of tubes, each of which contain a valve. A control module runs the air compressor and sequentially opens the valves to provide air pressure to the bladders in succession along the arm or leg of a user. Further, between the bladders and the valves, additional tubes containing valves are provided to equalize pressure between bladders before exhausting the air from a previously pressurized bladder to save power and allow for increased patterns of bladder pressure. The pressure levels and bladder dwell times may be adjusted by the user or based on predetermined settings. Optionally, the device provides electrical stimulation, pulsations, heating, and cooling.