Wearable Compression Device Using Shape Memory Alloy Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current compression devices for enhancing blood flow, such as those used to prevent deep vein thrombosis and treat varicose veins, are often bulky, uncomfortable, and restrict mobility, leading to poor patient compliance and increased healthcare costs.
Innovation Solution
A wearable compression device utilizing shape-changing materials and elongated compression textiles that apply controllable intermittent sequential compression, powered by an on-board microprocessor and power supply, allowing for mobility and comfort during treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional DVT cuffs are used to prevent blood clots, then blood flow is improved, but patient mobility is restricted and comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The compression device is divided into multiple independently controllable segments or zones along the limb. Each segment can be compressed separately in a sequential manner, allowing the device to maintain compression effectiveness while reducing overall bulk and improving patient mobility compared to traditional single-chamber cuffs.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from static compression to dynamic sequential compression, where different segments are compressed in a wave-like sequence. This dynamic approach maintains therapeutic effectiveness while reducing the need for bulky rigid structures, thereby improving patient comfort and mobility.
2Force
If compression stockings are used to treat venous insufficiency, then blood flow is enhanced, but the compression force decreases over time due to material deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive elastic mechanical compression (stockings) with active controlled compression using inflatable chambers and a pump system. This substitution maintains consistent compression force over time by actively adjusting pressure rather than relying on elastic material that deforms and loses effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device actively changes compression parameters (pressure level, duration, sequence) based on treatment requirements. This allows maintenance of optimal compression force throughout the treatment duration, overcoming the gradual force degradation inherent in elastic stocking materials.
3Force
If external air pumps are used to power compression devices, then compression effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pump, control system, and compression chambers into a single unified wearable device. This merging eliminates the need for separate external air pumps and connecting hoses, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining compression effectiveness through coordinated integration of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates an on-board power supply and control system that enables it to operate independently without external equipment. The integrated pump system draws power from the device's own battery and controls compression sequences autonomously, eliminating dependence on external air pumps and reducing system complexity.
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 enhances blood flow without side effects, improves patient compliance, and reduces healthcare costs by eliminating the need for external air pumps, while providing a comfortable and mobile treatment option.
Implementation Method 1
The shape changing elements may be comprised of a shape memory metal that contracts in response to heat or an electrical current
Implementation Method 2
a shape changing elements array integrated into the fabric body, the shape changing elements being operable to change shape in response to an external stimulus... the shape changing elements may be comprised of a shape memory metal that contracts in response to heat or an electrical current
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable massage and/or compression device for applying controllable scrolling or intermittent sequential forces, such as compression forces, to the body and limbs of a user comprises an elongated fabric body sized to encircle a limb of a user, one or more shape-memory wires carried by the fabric body and configured to apply a compression pressure to the limb through the fabric body upon changing shape in response to a stimulus, and a micro-processor based controller for selectively actuating the one or more shape-changing elements to reduce the effective diameter of the device encircling the limb, to thereby apply pressure to the limb.