Shape Memory Flex Frames for Targeted Compression Garments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression garments fail to provide efficient and targeted compression therapy for various medical conditions and sports injuries.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution is a compression garment with a flexible frame that includes a wire made of a shape memory material that can be contracted or lengthened to apply or release compressive force to the limb or other anatomical feature of a user, controlled by a controller or motor, and can include sensors for personalized control and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shape memory alloy wire is used to provide compression force, then the compression therapy becomes targeted and controllable, but the device complexity increases due to electrical circuits and controllers
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy wire automatically generates compression force in response to electrical stimulation without requiring complex mechanical transmission mechanisms. The wire self-regulates its length and applied force through its inherent shape memory properties, eliminating the need for traditional motors, gears, and linkages that would increase device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical compression systems (motors, winches, mechanical linkages) with an electro-thermal-mechanical system using shape memory alloy. Electrical energy is converted to thermal energy which directly induces mechanical contraction in the wire, providing a more compact and controllable solution.
2Stress or pressure
If segmented flex frame with multiple wires is used to provide even transition of forces, then the compression distribution becomes more uniform, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flex frame is divided into multiple segments with individual shape memory alloy wires, allowing independent control and distribution of compression forces across different regions. This segmentation enables tailored compression profiles for treating specific medical conditions while maintaining overall system modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented flex frame design serves multiple functions: it provides uniform compression distribution, allows targeted treatment of specific areas, enables adjustable compression levels, and maintains flexibility for patient movement. This multi-functionality is achieved through a standardized modular architecture.
3Measurement precision
If sensors and closed-loop control are implemented for personalized compression, then the treatment precision improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors integrated into the compression garment continuously monitor compression forces, limb dimensions, and physiological parameters. This feedback is processed by a controller that automatically adjusts the electrical stimulation to shape memory wires, maintaining optimal compression levels and adapting to patient movement and physiological changes in real-time.
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 proposed solution effectively addresses the need for efficient and targeted compression therapy for various medical conditions and sports injuries.
Implementation Method 1
A controller of the compression garment can supply an electrical input to the wire, generating heat that can cause the wire to contract
Implementation Method 2
The compression garment can have a wire made of shape memory material (shape memory alloy)... causing the wire to contract such that the flex frame deflects to a shorter length
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A compression garment having one or more flex frames that can be shortened or lengthened to apply or release a compressive force to the limb or other anatomical feature of a user. The compression garment can have a wire made of shape memory material (shape memory alloy). A controller of the compression garment can supply an electrical input to the wire, generating heat that can cause the wire to contract such that the flex frame deflects to a shorter length to apply a compressive force to the limb or other anatomical feature of the user. The one or more flex frames can be contracted in unison or in sequence to direct the flow of bodily fluids in the limb or other anatomical feature of the user.