Shape Memory Compression Garment for Mobile Circulation Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression garments for deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis and lymphedema treatment are either static and ineffective for circulation enhancement or require bulky equipment, limiting their practicality and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A compression garment using shape memory alloy woven into fabric, which contracts and relaxes cyclically to mimic natural circulation, controlled by a microcontroller, allowing programmable compression rates and integration with monitoring systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If static compression garments are used, then they are simple and portable, but they are ineffective for circulation enhancement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static compression garment into a dynamic system by incorporating an inflatable bladder that can be periodically inflated and deflated. This dynamic mechanism mimics natural muscle pump action, creating effective circulation enhancement while maintaining garment simplicity and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression garment employs periodic inflation and deflation cycles of the bladder, synchronized with the user's walking rhythm or controlled by a timer. This periodic action replicates the natural circulatory rhythm, providing effective blood flow promotion without requiring complex continuous control systems.
2Reliability
If dynamic compression systems with multiple compartments are used, then circulation enhancement is effective, but the equipment becomes bulky and less mobile
Solution Approach 1:
The compression garment divides the compression function into segmented zones along the limb, with the inflatable bladder positioned strategically to provide compression at key locations. This segmentation approach achieves effective circulation enhancement with minimal material, reducing overall garment weight while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a thin, flexible bladder material that can be integrated into the garment structure without adding significant weight. The flexible film allows the bladder to conform to body contours and transmit compression forces effectively, achieving circulation enhancement with minimal mass.
3Weight of moving object
If shape memory alloy is woven into fabric, then the garment becomes lightweight and adaptable, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy wires embedded in the fabric automatically respond to temperature changes or electrical stimuli by changing their shape and providing compression. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex external actuators, reducing control system complexity while maintaining lightweight construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical compression mechanisms (pulleys, springs, motors) with shape memory alloy that provides compression through material property changes. This substitution dramatically reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining the lightweight and adaptable characteristics of the garment.
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
Provides effective circulation enhancement, reducing swelling and preventing conditions like deep vein thrombosis, while being lightweight, mobile, and adaptable for daily use, suitable for various body parts and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A compression garment using shape memory alloy woven into fabric, which contracts and relaxes cyclically to mimic natural circulation
Implementation Method 2
A compression garment using shape memory alloy woven into fabric, which contracts and relaxes cyclically
Data Source
AI summary
A compression garment apparatus for a body part of an human and/or animal having a flexible backing, attaching means, a segmented flex frame, and a shape memory alloy on the segmented flex frame. The shape memory alloy can be connected to two terminals on the frame forming a circuit. A controller can be connected to the terminals applying current to the shape memory alloy at defined intervals providing intermittent, sequenced, or continuous compression therapy.