Wearable Thorax Percussion Device with Electromechanical Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable thorax percussion devices for cystic fibrosis patients are either labor-intensive for therapists or ineffective in maintaining consistent contact with the patient's thorax, limiting their efficacy in managing mucous buildup.
Innovation Solution
A wearable thorax percussion device featuring a lightweight, ergonomically adapted frame with interconnected electromechanical actuators and an electronic controller to provide controlled percussive forces, ensuring comfortable and consistent treatment without the need for a trained therapist.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wearable devices administer pulsating pneumatic pressure or acoustic waves through compressible media, then the device can be worn comfortably, but the transmission of pressure waves becomes less efficacious compared to direct mechanical manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces acoustic wave transmission through compressible media with direct mechanical percussion using an electromechanical actuator. The actuator directly contacts the patient's thorax to deliver percussive forces, eliminating the need for acoustic coupling chambers and gel-filled vests, thereby improving transmission efficacy while maintaining wearability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a frame structure as an intermediary element that positions and supports the electromechanical actuator. The frame provides a rigid support system that ensures consistent contact with the patient's thorax while allowing the actuator to deliver direct mechanical percussion forces
2Reliability
If devices rely on intimate contact between the vest and patient's thorax, then the device can be secured in place, but the device constricts the patient's normal breathing motions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the device into separate functional components: a frame structure for positioning, an electromechanical actuator for delivering percussion, and a soft wearable layer for comfort. This segmentation allows the device to be secured without constraining breathing, as the soft layer can accommodate thoracic expansion while the frame maintains actuator positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a soft, flexible wearable layer that can dynamically adapt to the patient's thoracic movements and breathing motions. This dynamic flexibility allows the device to remain secured during various breathing patterns without causing constriction, while the rigid frame maintains the positioning of the electromechanical actuator
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual chest physiotherapy is performed by therapists, then the treatment can be customized to patient needs, but the process is physically and time demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the device to autonomously deliver chest physiotherapy through an electromechanical actuator that automatically performs percussive movements. The device can operate without continuous manual intervention, reducing the time required for treatment while maintaining customization capabilities through programmable control of the actuator
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic, rhythmic percussive movements generated by the electromechanical actuator to simulate manual chest physiotherapy. The actuator delivers repeated percussion blows at controlled intervals, providing effective treatment in a time-efficient manner while maintaining the therapeutic rhythm needed for mucous clearance
4Object-affected harmful factors
If handheld mechanical devices are used for CPT, then the device can be operated without intimate contact, but the patient must manipulate the device during treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for patient manipulation with an electromechanical actuator that automatically performs the percussive movements. The actuator is integrated into a wearable device that delivers treatment without requiring the patient to manually operate the mechanism, eliminating the manipulation requirement while maintaining the benefits of non-intimate contact
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 delivers mechanical percussion to the thorax, mimicking manual chest physiotherapy while accommodating various patient sizes and breathing motions, enhancing treatment efficiency and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromechanical actuator retained by the at least frame element and comprising a reciprocating member for causing percussive forces against the thorax
Implementation Method 2
a reciprocating member for causing percussive forces against the thorax
Implementation Method 3
causing percussive forces against the thorax, either directly or indirectly
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable thorax percussion device for dislodging mucous buildup in the airways of a human patient, the device comprising frame elements and electromechanical actuators retained by the frame elements to intermittently percuss the thorax, and an electronic controller and power source for generating and modulating an electrical signal to energize the actuator. The frame elements may be interconnected by a garment, or fasteners and elastic or adjustable strapping.