SMART PRESSURE STOCKING CLOTHING WITH INTEGRATED MICRO-AIR CHANNELS AND WIRELESS CONTROL FOR EFFECTIVE LYMPHEDEMA MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The present invention relates to a smart adjustable pressure stocking designed for the management of lymphedema. The stocking is constructed from an elastic blend of nylon and spandex, incorporating micro-air channels lined with an airtight material for precise pressure control. Small battery-powered air pumps adjust pressure through inflation or deflation of these channels, regulated by a central microchip. The system further includes strain sensors for real-time pressure monitoring and a wireless communication link with a mobile application, allowing users to control compression levels and receive real-time feedback. Safety features include overpressure protection and redundant sensors to maintain safe and effective operation. The stocking is designed to be portable, comfortable, and user-friendly, providing customized compression therapy suitable for home use.

Specification

Description:[0019].The following description provides specific details of certain aspects of the disclosure illustrated in the drawings to provide a thorough understanding of those aspects. It should be recognized, however, that the present disclosure can be reflected in additional aspects and the disclosure may be practiced without some of the details in the following description.
[0020].The various aspects including the example aspects are now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the various aspects of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated for clarity.
[0021].It is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers that may be present. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0022].The subject matter of example aspects, as disclosed herein, is described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventor/inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different features or combinations of features similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other technologies.
[0023].The present invention is a smart adjustable pressure stocking designed to address the challenges faced by individuals managing lymphedema. The main objective of this innovative garment is to provide a dynamic, personalized compression therapy solution that adapts to real-time physiological needs, thereby enhancing both comfort and treatment effectiveness. This invention combines advanced materials, embedded electronics, and a user-friendly interface to create a seamless therapeutic experience.
[0024].The smart stocking is constructed from a durable and elastic blend of nylon and spandex. These materials are chosen for their balance of strength and flexibility, ensuring that the stocking can withstand daily use while providing necessary compression. The stocking integrates micro-air channels along its length. These channels are strategically embedded within the fabric and are lined with an airtight material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or silicone, to ensure that air remains confined within the channels without leakage. The micro-air channels are designed to run longitudinally along the limb, allowing even pressure distribution, which is critical for effective lymphedema management. The positioning of these channels helps ensure that the pressure applied is uniform, thereby reducing the risk of uneven compression that could lead to discomfort or compromised lymphatic flow.
[0025].A key aspect of the smart stocking is the integration of miniature battery-powered air pumps. These pumps are located at the top part of the stocking and are connected to the micro-air channels through flexible, leak-proof tubing. The pumps are responsible for adjusting the pressure exerted by inflating or deflating the micro-air channels. The ability to adjust pressure dynamically allows the stocking to cater to the fluctuating needs of patients throughout their daily routines. For instance, different pressure levels may be needed during physical activity compared to periods of rest. By dynamically modifying the compression, the stocking offers a therapeutic solution that adjusts based on the user's needs, reducing discomfort and enhancing overall effectiveness.
[0026].The operation of the pumps is controlled by a central microchip, which is embedded in a discrete pocket located near the top of the stocking. This microchip is designed for easy access, allowing for straightforward maintenance or replacement. The microchip receives input from strain sensors that are strategically embedded along the micro-air channels. These sensors continuously monitor the pressure levels in real time and provide feedback to the microchip. The microchip uses this data to regulate the air pumps, ensuring that the pressure exerted by the stocking remains within the desired range. This closed-loop feedback system is essential for providing consistent, effective therapy without requiring constant user intervention.
[0027].To ensure the comfort of the wearer, all electronic components, including the microchip, pumps, and sensors, are linked by flexible wiring that is seamlessly integrated into the fabric layers. The wires are designed to blend into the textile, ensuring they do not create any pressure points or cause discomfort during wear. The integration is done in such a way that the stocking maintains a sleek appearance, without bulges or visible electronic components, making it suitable for use in various settings, from clinical environments to everyday home use.
[0028].Power for the system is provided by a compact, rechargeable battery. The battery is positioned near the pocket containing the microchip and can be recharged through a standard USB port, making it convenient for users to maintain. The rechargeable nature of the battery ensures that the stocking can be used continuously without the need for frequent battery replacement, contributing to both convenience and environmental sustainability.
[0029].User interaction with the smart stocking is facilitated through a dedicated mobile application. The mobile app provides a user-friendly interface, allowing users to monitor and adjust the compression levels with ease. Through the app, users can receive real-time information about the current pressure levels and adjust the compression as needed using simple touch commands. One of the unique features of the app is the ability to set customized preset programs. These programs allow users to tailor the compression therapy to their specific needs at different times of the day. For example, users can set lower compression during periods of rest and higher compression during physical activities. This level of customization is particularly valuable for patients with lymphedema, whose needs can vary significantly depending on factors such as activity level, temperature, and time of day.
[0030].Wireless communication between the microchip and the mobile application is achieved through Bluetooth technology, allowing seamless connectivity without the need for physical attachments. This enables users to make adjustments remotely, providing greater convenience and flexibility. The wireless connectivity also allows healthcare providers to access pressure data remotely, facilitating more personalized and responsive care. The ability to remotely monitor and adjust compression therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be able to visit healthcare providers frequently.
[0031].Safety is a critical aspect of the smart stocking design. To prevent potential injuries, the stocking is equipped with several safety mechanisms. The microchip includes an automatic shutoff feature that activates if the pressure in the channels exceeds safe limits. This feature prevents overpressure conditions, which could lead to tissue damage or discomfort. Additionally, the mobile application provides real-time alerts if any parameter deviates from the predefined safe range, enabling the user to take corrective action promptly. To further enhance reliability, redundant sensors are embedded within the stocking. These sensors act as backups, ensuring that the system continues to function correctly even if one sensor fails.
[0032].For situations where the electronic system may malfunction, the smart stocking includes a manual override feature. This can be activated through the mobile application or via a physical button located on the stocking itself, providing users with a fail-safe mechanism to adjust or deactivate the system in case of any unexpected issues. This level of control ensures that users feel confident and safe while using the stocking.
[0033].The smart stocking is designed for continuous, all-day use. Its lightweight and ergonomic design ensures that users can wear it comfortably throughout various activities, including walking, exercising, and resting. The discreet integration of electronic components, combined with the soft, elastic fabric, ensures that the stocking provides an optimal balance of therapeutic compression and user comfort. The wearable nature of the stocking makes it a suitable solution for both clinical use and at-home care, offering flexibility that traditional pneumatic compression devices cannot provide.
[0034].Overall, the present invention represents a significant advancement in lymphedema care by providing an intelligent, adaptable, and user-friendly compression solution. The combination of micro-air channels, dynamic pressure adjustment, embedded electronic components, and wireless user control creates a system that meets the needs of modern lymphedema patients. By offering real-time pressure adjustment, personalized therapy schedules, and enhanced comfort, the smart adjustable pressure stocking helps improve treatment outcomes, reduce the burden on patients, and enhance their quality of life. The invention not only addresses the limitations of existing compression garments but also introduces new possibilities for remote monitoring and management, paving the way for more effective and accessible lymphedema care.
[0035].By addressing the limitations of traditional compression therapy, the smart adjustable pressure stocking stands out as a highly effective solution for improving the quality of life of individuals suffering from lymphedema. Its ability to provide real-time, user-adjustable compression makes it adaptable to the changing needs of the patient, ensuring better therapeutic outcomes and greater compliance. The smart stocking not only provides effective pressure management but also enhances user comfort, safety, and convenience-qualities that are crucial for a wearable medical device intended for continuous use.
[0036].Furthermore, the potential applications of this technology extend beyond lymphedema management alone. The combination of wearable comfort, dynamic pressure adjustment, and integrated digital control can be adapted for other medical conditions requiring compression therapy, such as deep vein thrombosis prevention, venous insufficiency, or sports injury rehabilitation. This versatility opens new possibilities in healthcare, particularly in personalized and responsive medical treatment, providing a broad range of benefits to individuals needing various forms of compression-based intervention.
[0037].In conclusion, the smart adjustable pressure stocking represents a convergence of materials science, electronics, and medical expertise, resulting in a product that significantly enhances compression therapy. By providing real-time control, customization, safety, and comfort, the smart stocking empowers individuals with lymphedema to take control of their treatment in an unprecedented manner. This invention sets a new standard for wearable medical technology, providing patients with an intelligent, responsive, and comfortable solution that actively improves their health outcomes and overall well-being. The innovation not only addresses the gaps in current compression garments but also establishes a foundation for future developments in smart healthcare wearables, paving the way for a new generation of patient-centered therapeutic solutions. , Claims:1.A smart adjustable pressure stocking, comprising:
a) An elastic fabric composed of nylon and spandex with integrated micro-air channels lined with airtight material such as TPU or silicone for maintaining form and preventing air leakage.
b) Miniature battery-powered air pumps connected to the micro-air channels for adjusting pressure by inflating or deflating the channels.
c) A central microchip housed in a pocket in the upper part of the stocking for controlling the air pumps.
d) Strain sensors located within the micro-air channels for real-time pressure monitoring.
2.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microchip communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth with a mobile application for user control.
3.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile application allows for user control of pressure levels, real-time feedback monitoring, and custom preset programs to adjust compression at different times or for specific activities. The mobile application provides safety alerts and allows manual intervention in the case of system malfunction.
4.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, further comprising safety mechanisms including automatic shutoff to prevent overpressure exceeding safety limits. Alerts provided via the mobile application if pressure deviates from a predefined safe range.
5.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a rechargeable battery to power the pumps and microchip, wherein the battery is located near the upper section of the stocking and is chargeable via a USB port.
6.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, wherein redundant sensors are integrated to maintain functionality in the event of sensor failure, and a manual override function is available through the mobile application or physical buttons.
7.The smart pressure stocking as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microchip, pumps, and sensors are linked by flexible wires embedded within layers of textile to ensure comfort and durability.

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