WO2015089383A1

WO2015089383A1 - Compression therapy system and module

Info

Publication number: WO2015089383A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/069986
Authority: WO
Inventors: William D. Davis
Original assignee: Advanze Cardio Systems, Llc
Priority date: 2013-12-12
Filing date: 2014-12-12
Publication date: 2015-06-18

Abstract

A compression therapy system includes a modular construction for administering compression therapy to patients.

Description

COMPRESSION THERAPY SYSTEM AND MODULE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 61/914,988, 5 filed on December 12, 2013, and titled COMPRESSION THERAPY SYSTEM AND

MODULE, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0002] Compression (also referred to as“pressure”) therapy is beneficial for

10 increasing a patient’s blood and lymphatic fluid flow for eliminating edema or other blood flow problems in a patient. Edema refers to an accumulation of interstitial fluid in a patient, causing swelling in the body. Accordingly, compression therapy may be used to treat edema venous disease, arterial disease, neuropathic disease, and/or lymphatic disease.

[0003] Compression therapy involves placing pressure on a patient’s body, such as the 15 patient’s lower leg, upper leg, arm, or waist at a constant or a varying pressure. The

amount of pressure applied on a patient may affect a different type of fluid flow. For example, venous disease, which affects blood flow in veins which are located close to the surface of the skin, may require a low pressure. Alternatively, arterial disease, which affects blood flow in arteries which are located further inside the patient’s body, may 20 require a higher pressure. SUMMARY

[0004] In general terms, this disclosure is directed to a compression therapy system. In one possible configuration and by non-limiting example, the compression therapy system 25 includes a modular construction for administering compression therapy to patients.

[0005] One aspect is a compression therapy module, comprising: a strap; a motorized tension adjustment mechanism which operates to adjust a tension applied to the strap; a main body for housing the motorized tension adjustment mechanism; and a pressure sensor attached to the main body.

30 [0006] Another aspect is a compression therapy system for providing pressure to a patient, comprising: a compression therapy module having a motorized tension adjustment mechanism; a controller device for sending compression instructions to the compression therapy module; and a user interface computing device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of example compression therapy modules of an example compression therapy system.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an example compression therapy 5 system.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example controller device of a compression therapy system.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a top view of an example compression therapy module.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a front isometric view of an example compression therapy module. 10 [0012] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of an example compression therapy

module.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of an example compression therapy module.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an example compression therapy module.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a flow chart of an example procedure for setting up the compression 15 therapy module system.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a flow chart of an example procedure for adjusting settings using a user interface computing device.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a chart illustrating an example of a sequential mode of operation.

[0018] FIG. 12 is a chart illustrating an example of a continuous mode of operation. 20 [0019] FIG. 13 is a flow chart of an example procedure for operating a compression therapy module system used by the controller system.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example architecture of a computing device, which can be used to implement various aspects of the compression therapy system.

25

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various examples or embodiments does not limit the scope 30 of the present disclosure. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible options for practicing the various aspects disclosed herein. [0022] The present disclosure provides a method for administering compression therapy to an individual using an automated system for increasing blood flow. Current pneumatic systems can be inflexible in size and may make it difficult for healthcare providers to determine whether the prescribed therapy is working and/or whether the 5 patient is complying with the therapy. In one possible configuration and by non-limiting example, an automated compression therapy system uses individual and automated compression therapy modules, wherein each module administers a desired amount of pressure. The individual compression modules are relatively small in size and can be connected together as desired to form a long or a short string of modules for providing 10 compression therapy.

[0023] Many forms of compression therapy can be administered using the automated compression therapy system. In particular, venous augmentation, arterial augmentation, lymph augmentation, or continuous pressure can be administered to a patient.

[0024] Venous disease refers an obstruction in a patient’s venous system which causes 15 the veins to become distended and causes swelling or edema in the limbs. In some

embodiments, venous augmentation can be administered to increase blood flow in the veins. In venous augmentation, the compression therapy modules apply pressure to a patient’s limb from a distal end to a proximal end, thereby causing blood to flow towards the heart. Typically, 50 mmHg of pressure is applied at the distal end and 30 mmHG of 20 pressure is applied at the proximal end, wherein each module holds the desired pressure for 5-10 seconds. Generally for venous augmentation, the total time sequence, or cycle, is approximately up to 5 seconds. The time sequence, or cycle, refers to the total amount of time it takes from the first module to compress to the last module to compress. Venous augmentation is used in patients with deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis and for edema 25 reduction.

[0025] Arterial augmentation to increase blood flow in the arteries. In arterial augmentation, the compression therapy modules apply pressure to a patient’s limb from a distal end to a proximal end, thereby causing blood to flow towards the heart. Typically, 120 mmHg of pressure is applied at the distal end and 90 mmHg of pressure is applied at 30 the proximal end, wherein each module holds the desired pressure for 2-5 seconds.

Generally for arterial augmentation, the total time sequence, or cycle, is approximately up to 5 seconds. Arterial augmentation is used in patients with arterial insufficiency and for edema reduction. [0026] Lymphatic disease refers to congestion in a patient’s lymphatic system which causes edema in the limbs. Accordingly, lymphatic augmentation refers to increasing lymphatic flow in a patient’s limb. In lymphatic augmentation, the compression therapy modules apply pressure to a patient’s limb from a distal end to a proximal end. Typically, 5 10-15 mmHg of pressure is applied at both the distal end and the proximal end, wherein each module holds the desired pressure for 5-10 seconds. Generally for lymphatic augmentation, the total time sequence, or cycle, is approximately up to 30 seconds.

[0027] Continuous pressure refers to providing a patient with a continuous amount of pressure. In continuous pressure therapy, the compression therapy modules provide and 10 relieve pressure at the same time. Typically, 20-50 mmHg of pressure is applied at the distal end and 10-40 mmHg of pressure is applied at the proximal end, wherein each module holds the desired pressure for a desired amount of time. Continuous pressure therapy is used for maintaining edema control in a patient.

[0028] In some embodiments, the compression therapy system is automated and 15 allows users to adjust various settings, ranging from therapy type as described above, timing parameters, pressure, and total time and/or cycles of treatment. Additionally, the compression therapy system is capable of tracking and storing compression data, so that healthcare providers may evaluate a patient’s compression treatment to determine whether the patient is complying with the prescribed therapy, whether the therapy is effective, 20 and/or whether to prescribe different treatment.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an example compression therapy device 10 of an example compression therapy system (shown in FIG. 2). In this example, the compression therapy device 10 includes four individual compression therapy modules 10a-10d. While four modules 10a-10d are shown in this example, it is understood that 25 more or fewer modules may also be included. In this disclosure, reference to module 10a is described, but it is understood to one skilled in the art that modules 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, ...10n have similar functionality and features and may be used interchangeably.

Accordingly, reference to module 10a is be used in the present disclosure as a non-limiting example.

30 [0030] In this embodiment, the compression therapy device 10 is strapped to the leg 11 of a person using straps 12. Although the modules 10a-10d are shown as being strapped on the lower portion of a person’s leg 11, it is understood that they may alternatively be positioned on a person’s thigh, arm, or waist. As shown, the compression therapy modules 10a-10d are connected together using mechanical connectors 44 and 46, and electrical connectors 16 and 17. The mechanical connectors 44 and 46 are used for physically connecting each module together. The electrical connectors 16 and 17 are used to communicate data between each module.

5 [0031] As described above, the compression therapy device 10 provides the user with the option of selecting a type of operating mode. In some embodiments, the operating mode refers to the type of compression therapy delivered to the patient. In some embodiments, the compression therapy device 10 provides sequential compression mode, which involves compression and de-compression of each module in a sequential order. For 10 example, compression module 10a may initially compress, then de-compress. Next,

compression module 10b may compress, then decompress. This compression and decompression cycle will then be followed by compression module 10c and finally by compression module 10d. In embodiments, this pattern is continued for a set period of time, number of cycles, or until it is stopped or paused by a user.

15 [0032] In other embodiments, the compression therapy device 10 provides a constant compression mode, which involves each module 10a-10d compressing and decompressing synchronously. Generally, the modes are established using the user interface computing device 22, as described with reference to FIG. 2. The compression therapy module 10a is described in further detail with reference to FIGs. 4-8.

20 [0033] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an example compression therapy

system 200. In this embodiment, the compression therapy system 200 includes a compression therapy device 10, a controller device 20, and a user interface computing device 22. As shown in FIG. 2, the user interface computing device 22 is connected to an electronic records system 24 over a network 26.

25 [0034] In some embodiments, the user interface computing device 22 is used by an operator, such as the patient or a physician, to adjust various settings of the compression therapy system 200. In embodiments, the following settings are adjustable using the user interface computing device 22: an operating mode, such as sequential, continuous, or user definable to allow a user to define the order of compression; the amount of pressure 30 desired; and timing parameters including hold time, duration of each cycle, and frequency of each cycle. In other embodiments, other settings are adjustable using the user interface computing device 22. [0035] Additionally included in the example compression therapy system 200 is a controller device 20. In some embodiments, the controller device 20 is used to control the compression therapy device 10 using input received from the user interface computing device 22. In embodiments, the controller device 20 communicates with the user interface 5 computing device 22 wirelessly and communicates with the compression therapy device 10 using a wired connection. In other embodiments, other forms of communication are used. In this embodiment, the controller device 20 communicates settings and supplies power to the compression therapy device 10. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the functionality of the controller device is embedded within the module 10a.

10 [0036] In embodiments, the controller device 20 also receives compression data from the compression therapy device 10 and thereafter stores the compression data in memory. In some embodiments, the compression data includes information regarding the number of compression cycles undergone, amount of pressure applied, the total time of compression treatment, the selected mode, etc. The controller device 20 may store the compression data 15 or communicate the data to the user interface computing device 22. In some embodiments, the user interface computing device 22 stores and/or displays the compression data for a user to analyze in real time or after the compression treatment has been administered. In some embodiments, the user can track and analyze data over time, after several compression therapy treatments have been administered.

20 [0037] In other embodiments, the user interface computing device 22 additionally sends the compression data to an electronic records system 24 over the network 26. In some embodiments, the electronic records system 24 is a database that stores the compression data in an electronic patient file. In some embodiments, healthcare providers may access a patient’s compression data in order to review the patient’s compression 25 treatment and use it to determine whether the prescribed therapies are being implemented and/or whether the therapies are effective. For example, in some embodiments the compression therapy system 200 records each compression performed by each module 10a-d and applied to a patient. In some embodiments the pressure of each compression is also recorded. In some embodiments the compression therapy device 10 is configured so 30 that a pressure change during the compression is only detected when the device is worn by a patient. Therefore, the recorded pressure changes can be used to show whether or not the device was being worn by the patient while the device is in operation. The compression data records can be used, for example, to confirm the times and frequency at which the compression therapy device 10 was operating, such as to compare the actual usage with a therapy prescribed for a patient. Additionally, operational details can also be reviewed using the data records, such as to confirm that the direction of a sequential compression mode of operation, described in further detail herein, was operating in the 5 proper direction to cause the blood to flow in the therapeutic direction. In some

embodiments healthcare providers can use the compression data for gauging whether to continue current treatment or to prescribe an alternative compression treatment.

Additionally, the compression data records also provide documentation to show that a healthcare provider provided the appropriate therapy to a patient in the event that the 10 therapy is questioned.

[0038] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example controller device 20 of a compression therapy system 200. In this embodiment, the controller device 20 includes a power supply 30, a processing device 32, and a wireless communication device 34, such as an antenna. Additionally, the controller device 20 includes driver circuitry 36 15 for the processing device 32, system memory 38, and an input/output connector 40. In some embodiments, the controller device 20 includes a power supply 30 that supplies power to the components in the controller device 20 and additionally to the compression therapy device 10 over a power connector 43. In some embodiments, the power supply 30 includes a power regulator to step up or step down voltages as required by components in 20 the controller device 20 and compression therapy device 10.

[0039] The processing device 32 receives operator inputs, as described above, obtained from the user interface computing device 22 and, in some embodiments, stores these inputs in memory 38. The processing device 32 thereafter instructs the compression therapy device 10 according to the operator inputs. In some embodiments, the processing 25 device also receives compression data from the compression therapy device 10 directly and stores the data into memory 38. Alternatively, the compression data is directly received in memory 38 without communication with the processing device 32.

[0040] In some embodiments, data communication to and from the compression therapy device 10 and to and from the user interface computing device 22 is achieved 30 using a wired connection via an input/output connector 40. In other embodiments, this data communication is achieved using a wireless communication device 34, such as an antenna. In some embodiments, the wireless communication includes Bluetooth®, infrared, cellular technology, or other radio frequency communication systems. [0041] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of an example compression therapy module 10a. In this example, the compression therapy module 10a includes a main body 42 for housing components, a first connector 44, a second connector 46 (not shown, positioned below the first electrical connector 16), a second electrical connector 17, and a strap 12 for 5 attaching the body 42 to a patient. In this embodiment, the main body 42 is rectangular shaped and therefore includes a first side 50, a second side 52, a third side 54, and a fourth side 56. In other embodiments, the main body 42 is in the form of a different geometric shape such as, but not limited to, spherical, cylindrical, octagonal, or any other three- dimensional geometric shape.

10 [0042] The connectors 44 and 46 are mounted on the second side 52 and fourth side 56, respectively. These connectors 44 and 46 are used to mechanically connect the module 10a to other modules. This connection allows several modules to be placed in parallel along either the second side 52 and/or fourth side 56. The connection structure is described in further detail with reference to FIGs. 5, 7, and 8. Additionally, the module 10a includes 15 a first electrical connector 16 positioned on the second side 52 and a second electrical connector 17 positioned on the fourth side 56. These connectors 16 and 17 are used to electrically connect the module 10a to other modules. In some embodiments first electrical connector 16 is connected to a second electrical connector 17 of another module.

[0043] In some embodiments, the strap 12 is elastic or adjustable and is used to secure 20 the main body 42 to a person, such as a person’s leg, arm, or waist. In some embodiments, the strap 12 includes a first end 48 and a second end 49. In embodiments, the first end 48 is affixed to the third side 54 while the second end 49 engages with the first side 50 for a secure attachment. In some embodiments, the first end 48 is made of an elastic material while the second end 49 is made of a material having a high friction surface. As described 25 in further detail below, a high friction surface is desirable for securing the second end 49 to the first side 50 of the main body 42. In some embodiments, the strap 12 is disposable.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a front isometric view of an example compression therapy module 10a. As shown, the compression therapy module 10a includes a first connector 44 and an electrical connector 16 positioned on the first side 52 of the module 10a. In this

30 embodiment, the module 10a also includes a force sensor 65 and a pad 67. The force sensor 65 is mounted directly to the bottom side 66 of the module 10a. The force sensor 65 is used to determine the amount of pressure being exerted onto the person for control and data monitoring. In other embodiments, other sensors are used, such as a pressure sensor. As shown in this embodiment, the pad 67 is mounted directly to the bottom side of the force sensor 65.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of an example compression therapy module 10a, illustrating components positioned inside the main body 42. In this example

5 embodiment, the components positioned in the main body 42 include a roller 60, a motor 62, a gearbox 64, a force sensor 65, a power supply 68, and a connector 71.

[0046] The roller 60 is a mechanical device that physically receives and secures the second end 49 of the strap 12 and generates a desired pressure in the module 10a by moving in a horizontal direction along the length of the main body 42. In particular, as the 10 roller 60 travels horizontally from the first side 50 to the third side 54, the strap 12 that is secured thereto tightens. Accordingly, the horizontal movement causes the main body 42 to exert a downward pressure onto the patient. As the roller 60 travels back toward the first side 50, the strap 12 loosens and relieves pressure exerted on the patient.

[0047] In some embodiments, the motor 62 generates mechanical energy to operate 15 the gearbox 64 that causes a desired movement of the roller 60. In some embodiments, the motor 62 receives instructions from the user interface computing device 22 which sends instructions to the controller device 20. The controller device 20 thereafter sends the instructions to the motor 62 via the input/output connector 71.

[0048] Additionally shown in this embodiment is a force sensor 65. The force sensor 20 determines the amount of pressure exerted on the patient and reports this information to the controller device 20 via the input/output connector 71. In some embodiments, this communication is achieved wirelessly.

[0049] In some embodiments, the motor 62 and force sensor 65 are powered by the power supply in the controller device 20. In other embodiments, the compression therapy 25 module 10a includes a battery or other power supply sufficient to supply power to

components located therein.

[0050] Additionally shown in this embodiment are additional input/output connectors 72. These input/output connectors 72 are communicatively connected to electrical connectors 16. As discussed above, in addition to their mechanical connection, the 30 modules are also electrically connected using electrical connectors 16. Accordingly, the modules are capable of transferring data between each module. Although not depicted, in some embodiments, each module further includes a processor capable of the implementing the functionality of the processing device 32 in the controller device 20. [0051] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of an example compression therapy module 10a. As shown, the example compression therapy module 10a includes a main body 42 having a first connector 44 and a second connector 46 attached to the second side 52 and fourth side 56, respectively. The compression therapy module 10a further includes a slot 5 70, for inserting the strap 12, located on the first side 50 of the main body 42. Additionally shown is the force sensor 65 and a pad 67 are positioned on the bottom side of the module 10a.

[0052] As described above, the connectors 44 and 46 are used to mechanically connect modules 10a adjacent to one another. In this example embodiment, connector 44 is a c-10 shaped connector while connector 46 is an o-shaped connector. In this example, the o- shaped connector 46 is designed to securely fit into the c-shaped connector 44 of another module while allowing a tolerance for movement of each individual module. In some embodiments, the connection is a snap-fit type connection. In other embodiments, the o- shaped connector 46 slides into the c-shaped connector 44.

15 [0053] Also shown in this embodiment is an electrical connector 16 on the second side 52. Although one electrical connector is shown in this embodiment, it is well known to one skilled in the art that another electrical connector 16 can additionally be positioned on the main body 42.

[0054] In this embodiment, the main body 42 further includes a rectangular shaped 20 slot 70 located on the first side 50 for securing the second end 49 of the strap 12. In this embodiment, a rectangular shape is used, however, in other embodiments, other shapes consistent with the shape of the strap 12 are used.

[0055] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an example compression therapy module 10a. As shown, the example compression therapy module 10a includes a main body 42 25 having a first connector 44 attached to a second side 52 and a second connector 46

attached to a fourth side 56. The compression therapy module 10a further includes a slot (see FIG. 7, ref. 70) on a first side 50, for receiving the second end 49 of the strap 12. As shown in this embodiment, the second end 49 of the strap 12 is secured to the roller 60 that is positioned inside the main body 42. As described above, in some embodiments, the 30 roller moves in a horizontal direction, parallel to the second side 52 and fourth side 56. As shown, movement of the roller 60 in a horizontal direction from the first side 50 to the third side 54 causes the strap 12 to tighten, and consequently causes the main body 42 to exert a downward pressure on the patient. Alternatively, movement of the roller 60 in a horizontal direction from the third side 54 to the first side 50 causes the strap 12 to loosen, and consequently causes the main body 42 to relieve pressure on the patient. Accordingly, the horizontal position of the roller 60 within the main body 42 corresponds to a particular pressure exerted on the patient. In some embodiments, this pressure is evaluated by the 5 pressure sensor. As described with reference to FIG. 6, a motor, directed by the controller device 20, and a gearbox drive the roller 60.

[0056] FIG. 9 is a flow chart of an example procedure for setting up the compression therapy module system on a patient’s leg. This example procedure includes operations 902, optional operation 904, 906, 908, and 910. Although this example procedure 10 describes placing the compression therapy device on a patient’s leg, it is understood that this process can be similarly implemented on a patient’s arm, waist, or back.

[0057] In this example procedure, a first compression therapy module 10a is placed on a patient’s leg (operation 902). In some embodiments, this involves positioning the module 10a such that the pad 67 rests on the patient’s leg. The strap 12 is then wrapped 15 around the patient’s leg and the second end 49 is inserted through a slot 70 located on the first side of the module 10a.

[0058] Optional operation 904 directs a user to connect and place another module on the leg. This involves connecting the c-shaped connector 46 of one module with the o- shaped connector 44 of the other module. In some embodiments, this operation also 20 involves connecting the electrical connectors 16 of each module. Operation 904 is optional (indicated by dashed lines) and is used for connecting more than one module. Operation 904 is repeated for each module connected. The quantity of modules used depends on various factors such as a patient’s leg, arm, or waist measurements, and/or a patient’s prescribed therapy.

25 [0059] Operation 906 involves powering the controller device 20 and the user

interface computing device 22. In some embodiments, the controller device 20 receives power from a wall outlet or an internal battery and includes an on/off switch to supply power to the internal power supply. In other embodiments, the user interface computing device 22 receives power from a wall outlet or an internal battery and includes an on/off 30 switch to supply power to the user interface computing device 22.

[0060] Operation 908 involves setting operating parameters using the user interface computing device 22. In some embodiments, operating parameters that may be set are the operation mode, the amount of pressure desired for each module, and timing parameters. In other embodiments, other parameters are set. The settings are described in more detail with reference to FIGs. 11-12. Finally, in some embodiments, operation 910 involves selecting a start button to start the compression therapy process.

[0061] FIG. 10 is a flow chart of an example procedure 910 for adjusting settings 5 using a user interface computing device 22. This example procedure 910 includes

operations 1012, optional operation 1014, and 1016.

[0062] In some embodiments, operation 1012 involves a user selecting an operating mode from several modes stored in memory 38. In some embodiments, the operating mode refers to the type of compression therapy delivered to the patient. In some

10 embodiments, the operating mode may be set to sequential or continuous mode. In other embodiments, other modes may be set.

[0063] In sequential mode, compression therapy device 10 provides and relieves pressure in a given sequence. For example, in a compression therapy system 200 including four modules 10a-10d connected together and strapped on a patient’s leg, a sequential 15 mode setting comprises providing and relieving pressure consecutively so that the first module 10a provides pressure first, second module 10b provides compression second, third module 10c provides compression third, and fourth module 10d provides compression fourth. In some embodiments, the modules provide pressure in an upward direction in the sequential operating mode. In some embodiments, the sequential mode 20 may be useful for augmenting venous blood in a limb, augmenting venous blood in a limb and increasing capillary perfusion pressure, and augmenting lymphatic flow from a limb. An example sequential mode is described in further detail with reference to FIG. 11.

[0064] In a continuous mode, compression therapy device 10 provides and relieves pressure at the same time. For example, in a compression therapy system 200 including 25 four modules 10a-10d, a continuous mode setting comprises each module 10a-10d

providing and relieving pressure at the same time. In some embodiments, a continuous mode may be useful for edema control. An example continuous mode is described in further detail with reference to FIG. 12.

[0065] In some embodiments, operation 1014 involves a user setting a desired 30 pressure. In some embodiments, a user sets the pressure, for each module individually or for the therapy modules altogether, using the user interface computing device 22. In some embodiments, the pressure is measured in units of pascals (P), newtons per square meter (N/m²), millimeter of mercury (mmHg), or pounds per square inch (psi). In other embodiments, other units of pressure are used.

[0066] In some embodiments, operation 1016 involves setting timing parameters for sustaining the desired pressure in each module. In some embodiments, this includes, but is 5 not limited to, setting, for each module individually or all modules collectively, a time duration to hold the selected pressure; setting time delays; setting a total number of cycles; and/or setting a total duration of compression time. In other embodiments, other timing parameters are set.

[0067] FIG. 11 is a chart 130 illustrating an example of a sequential mode of

10 operation. As discussed above, in sequential mode, compression therapy modules provide and relieve pressure in a given sequence. In this chart 130, the y-axis represents individual compression therapy modules 10a-10d and the x-axis represents time. In this embodiment, the chart 130 includes four compression therapy modules 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d. The chart 130 indicates pressure 140 for each module 10a-10d, the time duration T_A-T_D that 15 each module 10a-10d must hold the indicated pressure 140, and the start delay D_a-D_d for each module 10a-10d.

[0068] As described above, the pressure 140 is set using the user interface computing device 22. In this example chart 130, each module 10a-10d has a different pressure 140. For example, module 10a has a pressure 140a set to 65, module 10b has a pressure 140b 20 set to 70, module 10c has a pressure 140c set to 68, and module 10d has a pressure 140d set to 75. In other embodiments, other pressures 140 are used. In some embodiments, the pressure 140 of each module 10a-10d is equivalent.

[0069] As shown in this example embodiment, each module 10a-10d is associated with a delay D_a-D_d, respectively. The delay D refers to the duration of inactivity before a 25 compression module begins pressurizing. In this sequential mode example, the delay D for each module is staggered, and thus, provides a sequential mode of operation. As shown in this example, after delay D_a, module 10a pressurizes for time duration T_A. After delay D_b, which is greater than delay D_a, module 10b pressurizes for time duration T_B. After delay D_c, which is greater than delay D_b, module 10c pressurizes for time duration T_C. Finally, 30 after delay D_d, which is greater than delay D_c, module 10d pressurizes for time duration T_D. Thus, in sequential mode, modules 10a-10d pressurize consecutively.

[0070] Also shown in this example chart 130, is a complete cycle of a sequential mode of operation. In this embodiment, cycle 1 starts at time 0 and concludes at the end of time duration T_D. In some embodiments, after each cycle there is a cycle delay period. In some embodiments, a second cycle begins at the end of the cycle delay period.

[0071] FIG. 12 is a chart 150 illustrating an example of a continuous mode of operation. As described above, in a continuous mode, compression therapy modules 5 provide and relieve pressure at the same time. In this chart 150, the y-axis represents individual compression therapy modules 10a-10d and the x-axis represents time. In this embodiment, the chart 150 includes four compression therapy modules 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d. The chart 150 indicates pressure 140 for each module 10a-10d, the time duration T_A- T_D that each module 10a-10d must hold the indicated pressure 140, and the start delay D_a- 10 D_d for each module 10a-10d.

[0072] As described above, the pressure 140 is set using the user interface computing device 22. In this example chart 150, each module 10a-10d has the pressure 140 which is set at 70. In other embodiments, modules have varying pressures 140.

[0073] In this example embodiment, each module 10a-10d is associated with a delay 15 D_a-D_d, respectively. As shown in this example, delay D_a-D_d are equivalent and time

duration T_A-T_D, for holding the indicated pressure, are equivalent. Accordingly, modules 10a-10d start pressurizing and stop pressurizing at the same time, and accordingly provide a continuous mode of operation.

[0074] FIG. 13 is a flow chart of an example method 300 for operating a compression 20 therapy system 200 used by a controller device 20. In this example embodiment, the

method 300 includes operations 302, 304, 306, 308, 310, 312, 314, and 316.

[0075] In this embodiment, operation 302 involves receiving a status from each module. In this embodiment, receiving a status involves receiving an indication from each module once it is connected to the system. In some embodiments, this occurs after the 25 module is connected to the controller device 20 and other modules. In some embodiments, a status alerts the controller device 20 as to the quantity of module(s) connected and when the controller device 20 may begin operation.

[0076] In this embodiment, operation 304 involves receiving settings from a user interface computing device 22. As described above, these user settings include, but are not 30 limited to, the mode (for example, sequential, continuous, or user definable wherein a user may dictate the order of compression of each module), the amount of pressure exerted by each module, and timing parameters (for example, a hold time per module, the duration of each cycle, and the frequency of each cycle). In other embodiments, other settings are adjusted using the user interface computing device 22.

[0077] In this embodiment, operation 306 involves beginning pressurization. In some embodiments, the controller device 20 begins compression therapy by sending a start 5 signal to one or more modules in view of the settings received in operation 304. For

example, in this embodiment, the processing device 32 in the controller device 20 instructs each module when to begin pressurization in operation 306. In some embodiments, this involves sending a start signal to the motor 62 in the module that rotates a gearbox 64 that in turn moves the roller 60. As described above, as the roller 60 moves toward the third 10 side 54, the strap 12 tightens, causing increased downward pressure on the patient.

Accordingly, the movement of the roller 60 toward the third side corresponds to a particular increase in pressure.

[0078] In this embodiment, operation 308 involves determining whether a desired pressure has been reached. In this embodiment, the processing device 32 of the controller 15 device 20 receives a real time pressure measurement from the force sensor 65 located in each module. In this example embodiment, if the desired pressure has not been reached, flow proceeds to operation 310. In operation 310, the processing device 32 continues to instruct the motor to move the roller 60 toward the third side 54 until the desired pressure is reached. Once the desired pressure is reached, flow moves to operation 312.

20 [0079] In this embodiment, operation 312 involves determining whether a desired time duration has been reached in view of the timing parameters received from the user interface computing device 22. In this embodiment, the processing device 32 compares the desired time duration received from the user interface computing device 22 with the actual duration of time at the desired pressure. If the actual time duration at the desired pressure 25 is less than the desired time duration (i.e., the desired amount of time at the desired

pressure has not been reached), flow proceeds to operation 314. In this embodiment, operation 314 involves the processing device 32 instructing the roller 60 to maintain its position until the desired time duration has been reached. If the time duration has been reached, flow proceeds to operation 316.

30 [0080] In this embodiment, operation 316 involves moving the roller toward the first side. As described above, as the roller 60 moves toward the first side 50, the strap 12 loosens, causing decreased downward pressure on the patient. Accordingly, the movement of the roller 60 toward the first side 50 corresponds to a particular decrease in pressure. In this embodiment, the roller is moved back to its original position so that no pressure is exerted on the patient.

[0081] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example architecture of a computing device 1500, which can be used to implement various aspects of the compression therapy 5 system. In this disclosure, processing 32, memory 38, drivers 36, wireless communication device 34, force sensor 65, server 92, and user interface computing device 22 are computing devices. FIG. 15 can be used to implement aspects of the present disclosure including any of the plurality computing devices. The computing device 1500 described in FIG. 15 can be used to execute the operating system, application programs, and software 10 modules (including the software engines) described herein. To avoid undue repetition, this description of the computing device 1500 will not be separately repeated herein for each of the other computing devices, but all such devices can also be configured as illustrated and described with reference to FIG. 15.

[0082] The computing device 1500 includes, in some embodiments, at least one 15 processing device 1502, such as a central processing unit (CPU). A variety of processing devices are available from a variety of manufacturers, for example, Intel or AMD. In this example, the computing device 102 also includes a system memory 1504, and a system bus 1506 that couples various system components including the system memory 1504 to the processing device 1502. The system bus 1506 is one of any number of types of bus 20 structures including a memory bus, or memory controller; a peripheral bus; and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures.

[0083] Examples of computing devices suitable for the computing device 102 include a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a mobile computing device (such as a smart phone, an iPod® or iPad® mobile digital device, or other mobile devices), or 25 other devices configured to process digital instructions.

[0084] The system memory 1504 includes read only memory 1508 and random access memory 1510. A basic input/output system 1512 containing the basic routines that act to transfer information within computing device 102, such as during start up, is typically stored in the read only memory 1508.

30 [0085] The computing device 102 also includes a secondary storage device 1514 in some embodiments, such as a hard disk drive, for storing digital data. The secondary storage device 1514 is connected to the system bus 1506 by a secondary storage interface 1516. The secondary storage devices 1514 and their associated computer readable media provide nonvolatile storage of computer readable instructions (including application programs and program modules), data structures, and other data for the computing device 102.

[0086] Although the exemplary environment described herein employs a hard disk drive 5 as a secondary storage device, other types of computer readable storage media are used in other embodiments. Examples of these other types of computer readable storage media include magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoulli cartridges, compact disc read only memories, digital versatile disk read only memories, random access memories, or read only memories. Some embodiments include non-transitory 10 media. Additionally, such computer readable storage media can include local storage or cloud-based storage.

[0087] A number of program modules can be stored in secondary storage device 1516 or memory 1504, including an operating system 1518, one or more application programs 198, other program modules 1522 (such as the software engines described herein, including one 15 or more of the user accounts management engine 202, spending rules engine 204,

merchant communication engine 206, transaction communication engine 208, and reporting engine 210), and program data 1524. The computing device 102 can utilize any suitable operating system, such as Microsoft Windows™, Google Chrome™, Apple OS, and any other operating system suitable for a computing device.

20 [0088] In some embodiments, a user provides inputs to the computing device 102

through one or more input devices 1526. Examples of input devices 1526 include a keyboard 1528, mouse 1530, microphone 1532, and touch sensor 1534 (such as a touchpad or touch sensitive display). Other embodiments include other input devices 1526. The input devices are often connected to the processing device 1502 through an

25 input/output interface 1536 that is coupled to the system bus 1506. These input devices 1526 can be connected by any number of input/output interfaces, such as a parallel port, serial port, game port, or a universal serial bus. Wireless communication between input devices and the interface 1536 is possible as well, and includes infrared, BLUETOOTH® wireless technology, 802.11a/b/g/n, cellular, or other radio frequency communication 30 systems in some possible embodiments.

[0089] In this example embodiment, a display device 1538, such as a monitor, liquid crystal display device, projector, or touch sensitive display device, is also connected to the system bus 1506 via an interface, such as a video adapter 1540. In addition to the display device 1538, the computing device 102 can include various other peripheral devices (not shown), such as speakers or a printer.

[0090] When used in a local area networking environment or a wide area networking environment (such as the Internet), the computing device 102 is typically connected to the 5 network 1544 through a network interface 1542 as an Ethernet interface. Other possible embodiments use other communication devices. For example, some embodiments of the computing device 102 include a modem for communicating across the network.

[0091] The computing device 102 typically includes at least some form of computer readable media. Computer readable media includes any available media that can be 10 accessed by the computing device 102. By way of example, computer readable media include computer readable storage media and computer readable communication media.

[0092] Computer readable storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any device configured to store information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data.

15 Computer readable storage media includes, but is not limited to, random access memory, read only memory, electrically erasable programmable read only memory, flash memory or other memory technology, compact disc read only memory, digital versatile disks or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired 20 information and that can be accessed by the computing device 102. Computer readable storage media does not include computer readable communication media.

[0093] Computer readable communication media typically embodies computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery 25 media. The term“modulated data signal” refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, computer readable communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency, infrared, and other wireless media. Combinations of any of the above are also 30 included within the scope of computer readable media.

[0094] The computing device illustrated in FIG. 1 is also an example of programmable electronics, which may include one or more such computing devices, and when multiple computing devices are included, such computing devices can be coupled together with a suitable data communication network so as to collectively perform the various functions, methods, or operations disclosed herein.

[0095] The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the 5 art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the following claims.

10

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. A compression therapy module, comprising:

a strap;

a motorized tension adjustment mechanism which operates to adjust a tension applied to the strap;

a main body for housing the motorized tension adjustment mechanism; and a pressure sensor attached to the main body. 2. The compression therapy module of claim 1, wherein the motorized tension adjustment mechanism further includes a motor, a gear box, and a roller. 3. The compression therapy module of claim 1, wherein the strap is made of a combination of an elastic material and a high friction material. 4. The compression therapy module of claim 1, wherein the strap is capable of being received by the motorized tension adjustment mechanism. 5. The compression therapy module of claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. 6. The compression therapy module of claim 5, further including a first connector attached to the second side and a second connector attached to the fourth side. 7. The compression therapy module of claim 6, wherein the first connector is a c- shaped connector and the second connector is an o-shaped connector. 8. The compression therapy module of claim 7, wherein the first connector is capable of being connected to a second connector of a second compression therapy module. 9. A compression therapy system for providing pressure to a patient, comprising: a compression therapy module having a motorized tension adjustment mechanism; a controller device for sending compression instructions to the compression therapy module; and

a user interface computing device. 10. The motorized tension adjustment mechanism of claim 9, further including: a motor;

a gearbox connected to the motor;

a roller connected to the gearbox; and

a power supply. 11. The compression therapy module of claim 10 further including:

a main body for housing the motor, the gearbox, the roller, and the power supply; a pressure sensor attached to the main body; and

a strap with a first side and a second side, wherein the second side of the strap is capable of being received by the roller. 12. The controller device of claim 9, further including:

a processing device;

a wireless communication device;

system memory; and

a power supply.