Wearable DVT Prevention Device Using Motion-Triggered Electrical Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DVT prevention devices, such as Graduated Compression Stockings, Intermittent Pneumatic Compression, and Venous Foot Pumps, have limitations including low compliance rates due to immobilization requirements and discomfort, and are less effective in increasing blood flow velocity in deep veins, particularly during prolonged periods of inactivity or immobility, which is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device with a comprehensive control system and integrated machine learning model that senses dynamic or static movements, using EMG and accelerometer data to classify and manage signals, and actuates through neuromuscular electrical stimulation to increase venous and arterial blood flow, reducing blood stasis in the lower extremities, while being portable and comfortable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current DVT prevention devices (GCS, IPC, VFP) are used, then circulation promotion is achieved, but compliance rates are low due to immobilization requirements and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from static compression (GCS) or bed-bound intermittent compression (IPC) to dynamic, movement-triggered compression. The system uses accelerometers to detect user movement and activates compression only when needed, allowing patients to remain mobile while maintaining DVT prevention effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device automatically detects when compression is needed through motion sensing and activates itself without requiring manual operation or strict immobilization protocols. The system serves itself by monitoring its own activation criteria and adjusting compression accordingly.
2Reliability
If current DVT prevention devices are used, then circulation promotion is achieved, but effectiveness in increasing blood flow velocity in deep veins is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically adjusts compression parameters (pressure, duration, frequency) based on real-time motion detection and blood flow monitoring. This allows optimization of compression intensity to achieve greater blood flow velocity increases while maintaining patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical compression alone with an integrated system that uses motion sensing, electrical stimulation, and intelligent control to enhance blood flow velocity in deep veins more effectively than conventional mechanical devices.
3Reliability
If prolonged compression is applied to prevent DVT, then blood flow is improved, but device runtime on single charge is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous compression, the device uses periodic, intermittent compression triggered by motion detection. This reduces energy consumption while maintaining prevention effectiveness, extending runtime between charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts compression intensity and duration based on real-time blood flow monitoring and motion detection, optimizing energy usage to extend runtime while maintaining DVT prevention effectiveness.
4Reliability
If compression is applied to prevent DVT, then blood flow velocity increases, but patient comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses dynamic compression that adapts to patient movement and preferences. Compression intensity and duration are adjusted in real-time based on motion detection and blood flow response, maintaining effectiveness while improving comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback from blood flow monitoring and motion sensing to automatically adjust compression parameters, ensuring optimal balance between prevention effectiveness and patient comfort without manual intervention.
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 increases mean blood flow velocity in deep veins by 150% and reduces blood stasis, improving DVT prevention with a higher compliance rate and longer runtime on a single charge, making it suitable for ambulatory surgeries and post-operation care.
Implementation Method 1
A wearable device with a comprehensive control system and integrated machine learning model that senses dynamic or static movements, using EMG and accelerometer data to classify and manage signals, and actuates through neuromuscular electrical stimulation to increase venous and arterial blood flow, reducing blood stasis in the lower extremities
Implementation Method 2
actuates through neuromuscular electrical stimulation to increase venous and arterial blood flow
Data Source
AI summary
A deep vein thrombosis prevention device (DVT-PD) is a wearable device for the lower extremities senses the user's dynamic or static movements and actuates accordingly to lower DVT risks. The device uses a comprehensive control system together with an integrated machine learning model. to classify, manage, direct, and regulate signals and the behavior of the device.