RU2465882C2 - Device for underwater horizontal spine traction - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to medicine and medical equipment and is intended for underwater horizontal traction and elongation of spine. Device contains bathtub with sloping bottom and head, leg and aggregate compartments, metal base, main and additional panels, means for patient placement, first, second and third flexible connections, made in form of ropes placed on rollers, mechanism for lifting and lowering of board, installed in aggregate compartment, means for traction of cervical or lumbar spine; units for pouring and discharge of water, unit of hydromassage and elements for patient's fixation, made in form of Glisson loop and chest and pelvis belts. Device also contains programme block, electronic control panel, inbuilt into main bathtub panel and electrically connected with programme unit; sensor of loading force, interacting with means for traction of cervical and lumbar spine, unit of electric power supply, located in head compartment of bathtub and equipped with electric switches, first and second blocking elements. Hydromassage unit is located in aggregate compartment and is made in form of electric pump.

EFFECT: simplification of device construction and reduction of labour consumption in patient care due to automation of hydromassage and traction procedures; providing more comfortable conditions of massage and traction procedure for patients; achievement of maximal health-improving effect by providing smoother and more accurate regulation of traction force, acting on spine.

9 cl, 13 dwg

Description

The invention relates to medicine and medical equipment, and more specifically to technical means for underwater horizontal traction and lengthening of the spine in order to unload the nerve endings, restore intervertebral discs and correct the relative position of the vertebrae. It can also be used in the prevention and treatment of cervical and lumbosacral osteochondrosis.

Search for analogues and establishing the level of technology.

Based on the analysis of the materials of the patent and other scientific, technical and medical literature, it has been established that in the treatment of spinal diseases, agents are widely used for underwater horizontal traction of the spine of the most diverse design [1-6].

The main elements of such structures are:

- capacity for the formation of an aqueous medium during traction (bath, pool);

- nodes fill and drain water;

- Means for controlling and adjusting the temperature of the water;

- means for placing the patient (shield, bed, couch, etc.);

- hydromassage unit with an appropriate drive;

- Patient fixation elements (Glisson loop, chest and pelvic girdles, etc.);

- a mechanism for raising and lowering the patient into the bath with an appropriate drive;

- nodes of loading (traction) of the spine with the appropriate drive, for example, in the form of a water or metal "weight";

- load force meter (for example, dynamometer);

- cable-block and other systems of transmission of effort, etc.

These devices work mainly according to the medical formulas: “traction in the aquatic environment” or “hydromassage” + “traction in the aquatic environment”.

Known, for example, devices for underwater horizontal traction of the spine [7, 8], containing:

- a bath

- means for accommodating the patient, made in the form of a shield, the head of which is pivotally connected to the head of the bath,

- elements of fixation of the patient, made in the form of the chest and pelvic girdles,

- the mechanism for raising and lowering the patient, made in the form of a L-shaped frame equipped with an electric drive with a start button,

- loading mechanism of the lumbar spine, made in the form of a load with its holder connected through a cable-block system with a pelvic girdle. These devices are characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) have relatively small functionality, for example, do not allow them to be used additionally for loading the cervical spine;

b) the use of cargo (metal weights) as a source of traction force complicates their design, does not allow you to quickly adjust the traction force.

A device is also known for underwater horizontal traction of the spine [9], containing:

- bath with an inclined bottom,

- a shield for accommodating the patient, mounted inside the bath,

- an element of fixation of the patient in the form of a pelvic girdle, cable-block system,

- a loading mechanism for the lumbar spine, made in the form of a water tank with a level regulator, suspended from the tank cable and two flexible pipelines with control valves and on-off valves connecting the tank to the water tank and sewage, and

- Control block.

The device’s reservoir is a water “weight” of variable weight, capable of acting through the cable-block system and the pelvic girdle on the lumbar spine.

This device is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) has relatively small functionality, for example, does not allow it to be used additionally to stretch the cervical spine;

b) the use of water "weights" as a source of traction force complicates its design, does not allow you to quickly adjust the traction force.

A device is also known for underwater horizontal traction of the spine [10], containing

- a bath

- means for accommodating the patient,

- elements of fixation of the patient, made in the form of the chest and pelvic girdles,

- the mechanism of traction of the lumbar spine, made in the form of a water "weight" connected through a cable-block system with a pelvic girdle,

- nodes fill and drain water.

This device is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) has relatively small functionality, for example, does not allow it to be used additionally to stretch the cervical spine;

b) the use of water "weights" as a source of traction force complicates its design, does not allow you to quickly adjust the traction force.

A device for underwater traction of the spine [11], containing:

- a bathtub with a horizontal bottom,

- means for accommodating the patient, made in the form of a bed, pivotally connected to the end of the bath and equipped with a flooring on top,

- elements of fixation of the patient, made in the form of the chest and pelvic girdles,

- measuring force traction, made in the form of a dynamometer,

- loading mechanism, made in the form of a manual screw-type drive connected through a cable-block system and a dynamometer with a lumbar fastening element. However, it is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) has relatively small functionality, for example, does not allow it to be used additionally to stretch the cervical spine;

b) requires the use of a traction mechanism made in the form of a manual screw-type drive, complicates the design of the device, and does not allow for prompt adjustment of the traction force.

Known devices for underwater traction of the spine [12,13], containing:

- a bath

- means for placing the patient, made in the form of a shield installed in the bath,

- an element for fixing the patient,

- cable-block system,

- the mechanism of loading the spine, made in the form of a pneumatic or electric drive, which is connected via a cable-block system to the patient fixation element,

- timer

- traction force sensor,

- software setter.

Such settings allow you to pre-program the procedure for stretching the lumbar spine. However, they are characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) have a relatively complex structure;

b) requires the use of a traction mechanism, made in the form of a pneumatic drive in [12], which further complicates its design, is a source of increased noise (the output of compressed air "from under the piston").

A device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine [14], containing:

- a bath

- means for placing the patient, made in the form of a shield,

- elements of fixation of the patient, made in the form of the chest and pelvic girdles,

- loading mechanism of the lumbar spine, made in the form of a metal weight connected through a cable-block system with a pelvic girdle,

- a mechanism for raising and lowering the patient, made in the form of vertical racks installed in the bath with rails, in which the carriages are placed, which are pivotally connected to the opposite ends of the shield and connected with the corresponding electric drives.

This device is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) has relatively small functionality, for example, does not allow it to be used additionally to stretch the cervical spine;

b) requires the use of cargo (metal weights) as a source of traction force, complicates its design, does not allow to quickly adjust the traction force;

c) in connection with the use of vertical racks has a relatively large overall dimensions.

A device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine [15], containing:

- bath with an inclined bottom,

- means for accommodating the patient, made in the form of a bed, which is removably pivotally connected to the end of the bath and is equipped with a removable wooden flooring,

- elements for fixing the patient, made in the form of the chest and pelvic girdles,

- a screw mechanism for raising and lowering the bed, equipped with a manual drive and through a cable-block system connected with the means for placing the patient,

- measuring force traction, made in the form of a dynamometer,

- a traction mechanism, made in the form of a water tank, which is connected to the pelvic girdle through the corresponding cable-block system and dynamometer,

- emergency unloading mechanism, made in the form of a locking device,

- nodes fill and drain water.

Such a device allows:

a) according to the testimony of a dynamometer to control the magnitude of the traction force;

b) thanks to the emergency unloading mechanism, it is possible to quickly remove the traction force. However, it is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) has relatively small functionality, for example, does not allow it to be used additionally to stretch the cervical spine;

b) requires the use of a reservoir (water "weight") as a source of traction force complicates its design, does not allow to quickly adjust the loading force;

c) requires the presence of a flooring made of wood, which is impregnated with water during the implementation of the procedures, worsens its sanitary and hygienic properties in relation to patients.

Characterization and criticism of the prototype.

The closest invention to the proposed for the greatest number of similar features, technical nature, circuit design and achieved when using medical-technical result is a device [16].

Such a device, selected as a prototype, contains:

- a bathtub with an inclined bottom and a head, foot and aggregate compartments,

- a metal base made with the possibility of placing a bath on it,

- primary and secondary panels, placed responsibly above the head and foot compartments of the bath,

- means for accommodating the patient, installed in the bathtub and made in the form of a movable shield with a through elongated hole corresponding to the axis of the spine, the head part of the shield being pivotally connected to the bathtub and the foot part provided with a cable-limiter of the level of its upper position,

- the first, second and third flexible connections, made in the form of cables thrown on the rollers,

- a mechanism for raising and lowering the shield, made in the form of a hydraulic cylinder connected to an external water supply system, controlled by a three-position valve and installed in the aggregate compartment, and the hydraulic cylinder is equipped with a movable rod connected through the first flexible connection with the foot part of the shield,

- means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine formed from the loading mechanism of the cervical spine placed in the head compartment of the bath and the loading mechanism of the lumbar spine placed in the foot compartment of the bath, and the loading mechanism of the cervical spine is made in the form of a freely suspended second flexible communication and with the possibility of moving the first tank connected to an external water supply system, with the first counterweight, compensating for the weight of the first empty tank, and p the first telescopic lever to set the magnitude of the loading force with the scale, and the loading mechanism of the lumbar spine is made in the form of a freely suspended flexible connection for the third one and with the possibility of moving a second tank connected to an external water supply system, with a second counterweight to compensate for the weight of the second empty tank, and the second telescopic lever for setting the magnitude of the loading force with a scale,

- hydromassage unit, made in the form of a movable hydromassage device, located in the oblong hole of the shield and connected through an mixer to an external water supply system,

- a water filling unit installed in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with a mixer, valves and a water temperature indicator integrated in the main panel and connected to an external water supply system, inlet openings of the bathtub, load tanks of loading mechanisms of the cervical and lumbar spine and hydraulic cylinder of the movement mechanism shield

- a water drainage unit, made in the foot compartment of the bathtub and equipped with valves and levers built into the additional panel, and connected to the drainage and overflow openings of the bathtub and load tanks of the traction mechanisms of the cervical and lumbar spine and an external water drainage system,

- patient fixation elements made in the form of a Glisson loop and chest and pelvic girdles, and the Glisson loop is made with the possibility of connecting through the second flexible connection to the loading mechanism of the cervical spine, the chest girdle is made with the possibility of connection with the head of the shield, and the pelvic girdle is made with the ability to connect through a third flexible connection with the loading mechanism of the lumbar spine or with a bath.

Note. In the prototype, the immersion mechanism of the cervical spine and the loading mechanism of the lumbar spine together form a means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine. Structurally, they are made separately.

This device, selected as a prototype, is characterized by the following disadvantages:

a) the use of load tanks for pouring water (water "weights") as a source of loading force, the use of a hydraulic cylinder for raising and lowering the shield complicates the design of the device, does not allow you to quickly adjust the traction force, increases the load on the medical staff;

b) the low accuracy of the set traction force, the value of which is determined by the design of the telescopic lever for setting the magnitude of the loading force with a scale, increases the risk of injury (possibly "over-stretching");

c) low automation of labor of the nursing staff;

d) increased risk of injuries due to the lack of means in the device for emergency ("emergency") stop when performing procedures;

e) the lack of the device's ability to pre-set the traction program;

f) limited access to certain sections of the inner surface of the bathtub during its sanitary-hygienic treatment, which is explained by the fact that in the device only one side of the shield rises and falls (the other is “fixed” by a hinge).

Medical and technical results and their achievement.

The invention is aimed at achieving such medical and technical results as:

a) facilitating the work of medical staff, simplifying the design of the device and reducing the complexity of patient care by automating hydromassage and traction procedures;

b) creating more comfortable conditions for the massage and traction procedures for patients;

c) achieving the maximum therapeutic healing effect by providing a smoother and more accurate adjustment of the traction force acting on the spine;

d) expanding the functionality of the device by increasing the flexibility of managing the time parameters of the load;

d) achieving the ability to pre-set the traction program in the device.

According to this invention, the achievement of these medical and technical results is ensured by the known device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine, containing:

- a bathtub with an inclined bottom and a head, foot and aggregate compartments,

- a metal base made with the possibility of placing a bath on it,

- the main and additional panels installed responsibly above the head and foot compartments of the bath,

- means for accommodating the patient, installed in the bathtub and made in the form of a movable shield with a through elongated hole corresponding to the axis of the spine,

- the first, second and third flexible connections, made in the form of cables thrown on the rollers,

- a mechanism for raising and lowering the shield installed in the aggregate compartment and connected through the first flexible connection with the foot part of the shield,

- a means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine,

- a water filling unit made in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with valves and a water temperature indicator integrated in the main panel and connected to an external water supply system and a bath inlet,

- a water drainage unit made in the foot compartment of the bathtub and equipped with a valve integrated in the additional panel and connected to the drain and overflow openings of the bathtub and an external water drainage system,

- hydromassage unit, and

- patient fixation elements made in the form of a Glisson loop and chest and pelvic girdles, and the chest girdle is made with the possibility of connection with the head of the shield,

also contains:

- a software unit installed in the head compartment of the bath,

- an electronic control panel integrated in the main panel of the bathtub and electrically connected to the program unit,

- a load force sensor interacting with a means for traction of the cervical or lumbar spine and made in the form of a strain gauge, the electrical output of which is connected to the program unit,

- a power supply unit located in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with “Shield-down” and “Shield-up” switches integrated in the main panel of the bathtub,

- pneumatic and electrical switches "Network" and "Hydromassage" built into the main panel of the bathtub,

- pneumatic electrical switch "Emergency", made remote, and

- the first and second blocking elements, made in the form of limit switches.

Wherein:

- the hydromassage unit is located in the aggregate compartment and is made in the form of an electric pump, the suction inlet of which is connected to the outlet hole of the bathtub, and the outlet is connected to nozzles installed in the holes on the bottom of the bathtub opposite the oblong hole of the shield,

- the mechanism of raising and lowering the shield through the first flexible connection is additionally connected to the head of the shield and is made in the form of a first electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the second blocking element,

- means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine is placed in the head compartment of the bath and is made in the form of a second electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the first blocking element and equipped with a L-shaped lever,

- the first blocking element is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the first electric drive with the first output of the power supply unit, and the second blocking element is with the possibility of electrical connection of the second electric drive with the program unit,

- pneumatic switch "Network" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the input of the power supply unit with a cable equipped with a plug,

- pneumatic switch "Hydromassage" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the second output of the power supply unit with an electric pump,

- pneumatic electrical switch "Emergency" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the third output of the power supply unit with the program unit,

- Glisson loop made with the possibility of connection through the second flexible connection, if necessary, with a L-shaped lever, and

- the pelvic girdle is made with the possibility of connection through a third flexible connection, if necessary, with the head of the bath or with the L-shaped lever.

Besides,

- the device is equipped with a headrest, placed, if necessary, on the head of the shield, a stand, placed, if necessary, next to the bathtub and an audible warning device, the input of which is electrically connected to the electronic control panel;

- the bath is equipped with two removable rungs placed, if necessary, across the bath in its head and foot parts, each of the rungs also equipped with a pair of hooks, and the shield is made with the possibility of hanging, if necessary, on these hooks;

- the ends of the shield are equipped with rollers;

- the metal base is equipped with height-adjustable supports, as well as side panels that cover the outside of the bath;

- on the inner wall of the bath is made the level indicator of the initial water fill, placed below the level of the overflow hole of the bath;

- each of the pneumatic and electrical switches "Network" and "Hydromassage" is made in the form of a piston pneumatically connected through an air hose to a two-position electric switch;

- the pneumatic-electrical switch "Emergency" is made in the form of a "pear", pneumatically connected through an air hose to a single-position electric switch.

The applicant has not discovered inventions in which the technical result is achieved by a similar set of essential features. At the same time, he conducted an analysis of the prior art, including a search by patent and other scientific and technical sources of information, and identification of sources containing information about analogues of the invention, made it possible to establish that there are no analogues characterized by features identical to all the essential features of the invention, and isolation from the list of analogues of the prototype [16] revealed a combination of significant in relation to the technical results of the distinguishing features of the claimed invention.

In other words, according to the information available to the applicant, there are no analogues that are characterized by sets of features identical to all the features of the claimed device.

The applicant has also verified the compliance of the specified set of essential features of the device with three conditions (criteria) of patentability.

Verification of compliance of the claimed device with the patentability condition "Novelty".

The main features that distinguish the claimed device from the closest analogue of the prototype are:

- the presence of a software unit installed in the head compartment of the bath,

- the presence of an electronic control panel built into the main panel of the bathtub and electrically connected to the program unit,

- the presence of a load force sensor interacting with a means for traction of the cervical or lumbar spine and made in the form of a strain gauge, the electrical output of which is connected to the program unit,

- the presence of a power supply unit located in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with electric switches "Shield-down" and "Shield-up" built into the main panel of the bath,

- the presence of pneumatic and electrical switches "Network" and "Hydromassage", built into the main panel of the bath,

- the presence of the emergency switch "Remote", made remote, and

- the presence of the first and second blocking elements, made in the form of limit switches.

Besides:

- placing the hydromassage unit in the aggregate compartment and performing it in the form of an electric pump, the suction inlet of which is connected to the outlet hole of the bathtub, and the outlet is connected to nozzles installed in the openings on the bottom of the bathtub opposite the oblong hole of the shield,

- additional connection of the mechanism for raising and lowering the shield through the first flexible connection with the head part of the shield and making it in the form of a first electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the second blocking element,

- placement of means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine in the head compartment of the bath and performing it in the form of a second electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the first blocking element, and equipped with a L-shaped lever,

- the implementation of the first blocking element with the possibility of electrical connection of the first electric drive with the first output of the power supply unit, and the second blocking element with the possibility of electrical connection of the second electric drive with the program unit,

- implementation of the pneumatic-electric switch "Network" with the possibility of electrical connection of the input of the power supply unit with a cable equipped with a plug, *

- the implementation of the pneumatic switch "Hydromassage" with the possibility of electrical connection of the second output of the power supply unit with an electric pump,

- the implementation of the pneumatic electrical switch "Emergency" with the possibility of electrical connection of the third output of the power supply unit with the program unit,

- the implementation of the Glisson loop with the ability to connect through a second flexible connection, if necessary, with a L-shaped lever,

- the implementation of the pelvic girdle with the ability to connect through a third flexible connection, if necessary, with the head of the bath or with a L-shaped lever,

- supplying the device with a head restraint, placed, if necessary, on the head of the shield, with a stand, placed, if necessary, next to the bathtub and an audible warning device, the input of which is electrically connected to the electronic control panel;

- supplying the bathtub with two removable crossbars placed, if necessary, across the bathtub in its head and foot parts, as well as supplying each of the crossbars with a pair of hooks and making a shield with the possibility of hanging, if necessary, on these hooks;

- supplying the ends of the shield with rollers;

- supply of a metal base with height-adjustable supports, as well as side panels that cover the outside of the bath;

- execution on the inner wall of the bath of the indicator of the level of the initial fill of water placed below the level of the overflow hole of the bath;

- the implementation of each of the pneumatic and electrical switches "Network" and "Hydromassage" in the form of a piston pneumatically connected through an air hose to a two-position electric switch;

- implementation of the emergency switch "Emergency" in the form of a "pear", pneumatically connected through an air hose with a single-position electric switch.

The presence of these features ensures compliance of the totality of features with the condition of patentability “novelty”.

Verification of compliance of the proposed device with the patentability condition "inventive step".

To verify compliance with the requirements of inventive step, the applicant conducted an additional search and analysis of solutions in order to identify signs that match the distinctive features of the selected prototype, the results of which showed that the claimed object does not explicitly follow from the prior art defined by the applicant.

In other words, a comparison of the inventive device not only with the prototype, but also with other technical solutions in this and related fields of medicine and medical equipment showed that the latter do not contain features similar to those distinguishing the present invention from the prototype.

Therefore, the claimed object meets the condition of patentability "inventive step" under applicable law.

It should be noted that between the set of essential features (distinctive features) of the present invention and the achieved technical result, there is a causal relationship, since the distinctive features were not identified in any of the analogues, and the achieved technical result is obtained only when all without exception are used together famous and distinctive features.

Drawings illustrating the essence of the invention.

The invention is illustrated by drawings, which show:

- figure 1 is the appearance of the device (front and top views);

- figure 2 - the upper and lower positions of the patient in the bath;

- figure 3 and 4, respectively, structural and hydraulic circuits of the device;

- figure 5, a and 5, b - kinematic diagrams of the device during traction, respectively, of the cervical and lumbar spine;

- figure 6 - electrical, mechanical and pneumatic communication in the device;

- Fig.7, a is a diagram of the transfer of forces when raising and lowering the shield;

- Fig.7, b is a diagram of the transfer of forces during traction of the cervical spine;

- in Fig.7, c is a diagram of the transfer of forces during traction of the lumbar spine;

- in Fig.8 is a structural diagram of pneumatic electrical switches;

- figure 9 is a simplified block diagram of the electric drives of the device;

- figure 10 and 11 - the design of the crossbars and their use for hanging the shield;

- in Fig. 12, a is a timing diagram for a “constant” spinal traction mode;

- in Fig.12, b is a timing chart with a "variable" mode of spinal traction;

- Fig.13 is a diagram of the main forces acting in the bath on the patient.

Description of the design of the device (in statics).

A device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine contains:

- bath 1 with an inclined bottom and a head 2, foot 3 and aggregate 4 compartments (figure 3),

- a metal base 5, made with the possibility of placing on it a bath 1 and equipped with height-adjustable supports 6 and side panels 7 of decorative plastic, covering the outside of the bath 1,

- the main 8 and additional 9 panels installed responsibly above the head 2 and foot 3 compartments of the bath 1,

- means for accommodating the patient, installed in the bath 1 and made in the form of a movable shield 10 with a through elongated hole 11 corresponding to the axis of the spine of the patient (figure 3),

- the first 12, second 13 and third 14 flexible connections (Fig.6 and 7), made in the form of cables thrown on the rollers (Fig.5, a and 5.6),

- a mechanism for raising and lowering the shield installed in the aggregate compartment 4 and made in the form of a first electric drive 15 with a movable element 16 mechanically interacting through the first flexible connection 12 with the head and foot parts of the shield 10 (5, a, and 5, b, 6- 8),

- means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine, which is a single mechanism for loading the spine, located in the head compartment 2 of the bath 1 and made in the form of a second electric drive 17 with a movable element 18 provided with a L-shaped lever 19 (Fig. 5, a and 5 , b and 7),

- program unit 20 installed in the head compartment 2 of the bath 1 (Fig.6),

- an electronic control panel 21 integrated in the main panel 8 of the bath 1 and electrically connected to the program unit 20,

- load force sensor interacting with the movable element 18 of the second electric drive 17 and made in the form of a strain gauge 22, the electrical output of which is connected to the program unit 20 (Fig. 5, a, 5, b, 6);

- pneumatic switches 23 "Network" and 24 "Hydromassage" built into the main panel 8 of the bath 1 (Fig.6 and 8),

- pneumatic electrical switch 25 "Emergency", made remote (6, 8, b),

- the first 26 and second 27 blocking elements, made in the form of limit switches and mechanically interacting with the movable elements 18 and 16, respectively, of the second 17 and first 15 electric drives;

- audible warning device 28, the input of which is electrically connected to the electronic control panel 21 (Fig.6),

- a power supply unit 29 located in the head compartment 2 of the bath 1 and equipped with on-off electrical switches (without locking) 30 “Shield-down” and 31 “Shield-up”, built into the main panel 8 of the bath 1,

a hydromassage unit located in the aggregate compartment 4 and consisting of an electric pump 32, the suction inlet of which is connected to the outlet hole 33 of the bath 1, and the outlet is connected to the nozzles 34 installed in the massage holes 35 of the bath 1, made at its bottom opposite the elongated hole 11 of the shield 10 (figure 3),

- node 36 water filling, made in the head compartment 2 of the bath 1 and equipped with valves 37 cold and hot water 38 and a water temperature indicator 39, built into the main panel 8 and connected to an external water supply system (not shown) through flexible connections 40 and filler hole 41 bath 1 (figure 4),

- a water drainage unit 42 made in the foot compartment 3 of the bath 1 and provided with a valve 43 integrated in its additional panel 9 and connected to the drain 44 and overflow 45 openings of the bath 1 and an external water drainage system (not shown),

- elements of the fixation of the patient, made in the form of a loop 46 of Glisson and chest 47 and pelvic 48 belts,

- two removable crossbars 49, placed, if necessary, across the bath 1 in its head and foot parts, each of the crossbars provided with a pair of hooks 50;

- headrest 51, placed, if necessary, on the shield 10,

- stand 52, placed, if necessary, next to the bathroom 1,

- a hook 53 fixed in the head of the bath 1 (Fig. 5, a and 5, b, 11),

- a pointer 54 of the level of the initial filling of water, made on the inner wall of the bath 1 and placed below the level of the overflow hole 45 of the bath 1 (figure 4),

- network cable 55 with a plug 56, which can be inserted into a socket 57 (Fig.6). In addition, in this device:

- the first electric drive 15 through the first blocking element 26 is electrically connected to the first output 58 of the power supply unit 29, and the second electric drive 17 through the second blocking element 11 to the output 59 of the program unit 20;

- the pneumatic switch 23 "Network" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the input 60 of the block 29 of the power supply with a network cable 55 provided with a plug 56;

- pneumo-electric switch 24 "Hydromassage" made with the possibility of electrical connection of the second input 61 of the block 29 of the power supply with the electric pump 32;

- pneumatic electrical switch 25 "Emergency" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the third output 62 of the block 29 of the power supply with the program unit 20;

- each of the pneumatic-electric switches 23 "Network" and 24 "Hydromassage" is made in the form of a piston 63, equipped with a button 64 and connected through an air hose 65 with a two-position electric switch 66; wherein the piston 63 with the button 64 is integrated in the main panel 8 of the bath 1, and the electric switch 66 is located in its head compartment 8;

- the pneumatic electrical switch 25 "Emergency" is made in the form of a "pear" 67, connected through an air hose 68 with a single-position electric switch 69; while the "pear" 67 is placed, as necessary, in the hands of the patient, and the switch 69 is placed in its head compartment 8;

- the shield 10 is made with the possibility of hanging, if necessary, on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49, and the ends of the shield 10 are equipped with rollers 70;

- Glisson loop 46 is made with the possibility of connection through the second flexible connection 13, if necessary, with the L-shaped lever 19,

- chest belt 47 is configured to connect with the head of the shield 10,

- the pelvic girdle 48 is made with the possibility of connection through the third flexible connection 14, if necessary, with the head part of the bath 1 (with hook 53) or with the L-shaped lever 19.

Purpose and features of structural elements and components of the device.

Bath 1 is designed to create an aquatic environment in which hydromassage and spinal traction are performed.

The metal base 5 is a frame structure that provides rigidity and stability of the bath 1 during the procedures.

Supports 6 are designed to adjust the height of the legs of the bath 1.

Side panels 7 are designed to enhance the aesthetic properties of the appearance of the device and protect its elements and components from mechanical damage.

The movable shield 10 is designed to accommodate the patient in the bath 1 while taking procedures. It consists of a metal frame on which a bed is fixed (not shown separately). The bed is made of plastic with a through elongated hole 11.

The first 12, second 13 and third 14 flexible connections are designed to transmit mechanical forces along the corresponding kinematic chains (Fig.7).

The electric drive 15 is designed to generate the forces of raising and lowering the shield 10 in the bath 1. In the device manufactured by the applicant, this electric drive is implemented on the basis of the commercially available LINAK 343100 + 00400022 / actuator 24V.

The electric drive 17, equipped with an L-shaped lever 19, is designed to form the forces of traction of the spine. In the device manufactured by the applicant, this drive is based on a commercially available Megamat MBZ no.80021 drive / 24V actuator.

Each of the electric drives 15 and 17 consists (Fig. 9) of a direct current electric motor 71 and a reducer 72 made in a single casing, converting the rotation of the rotor of this electric motor 71 to the reciprocating movement of its movable (output) element 16 (18). The movable element 16 of the electric drive 15, moving, closes or opens the contacts of the blocking element 27, and also mechanically acts on the first flexible connection 12 (Fig.6 and 7, a). The movable element 18 of the electric actuator 17, moving, closes or opens the contacts of the blocking element 26, mechanically acts on the load cell 22, and through the L-shaped lever 19 - on the second 13 or third 14 flexible connections (Fig.6 and 7, b, c).

L-shaped lever 19 provides the transmission of traction force from the movable element 18 of the electric drive 17 to the second flexible connection 13.

The program unit 20 provides storage and implementation of the programs of traction procedures recorded in it, which makes it possible to program (“think through” in advance) the procedure for traction of the spine and to automate its execution. In addition, it stores the threshold (maximum) values of the traction forces of the cervical and lumbar spine, exceeding which can lead to injuries of the patient's spine. In a device manufactured by the applicant, these values are respectively 20 and 60 kg.

The electronic control panel 21 is designed to enter the parameters of the procedures and display the information received. Structurally, the remote control 21 is a combination of touch switches and indicators.

The load cell 22 converts the traction forces into corresponding electrical signals. In the device manufactured by the applicant, this load cell is implemented on the basis of a commercially available converter type PC42-100kg-C3 (Flintec).

The pneumatic electrical switch 23 "Network" is designed to connect the input 60 of the block 29 of the power supply to an external power supply. When the button 64 is pressed, the piston 63, while moving, compresses the air below it, which through the hose 65 enters the on-off electric switch (with lock) 66 and transfers its electrical contacts to another (closed) position. If you release the button 64, the compressed air leaves the switch 66, but its contacts maintain a closed state.

The pneumatic-electric switch 24 "Hydromassage" is designed to connect the electric pump 32 to the second output 61 of the block 29 of the power supply. Its operation is similar to the operation of the pneumatic-electric switch 23 "Network".

In the device manufactured by the applicant, the piston 63 with the button 64 is implemented on the basis of the commercially available Aqua-Chrome 8210 button, and the electric switch 66 is based on the on-off pneumatic switch RO 201001 (Switches).

The pneumatic and electrical switch 25 "Emergency" is designed to carry out, if necessary, an emergency shutdown of the device by connecting the third output 62 of the block 29 to the input 73 of the program block 20. When you press the pneumatic bulb 67, the compressed air through it through the hose 68 enters the on-off electric switch (electric switch without fixing ) 69 and transfers its electrical contacts to another (closed) position. If the bulb 67 is released, the compressed air leaves the switch 69, and its spring-loaded contacts return to their original (open) state. In the device manufactured by the applicant, the emergency switch 69 is made on the basis of the commercially available pneumatic switch RO 201021 (Switches).

The use of elements 1 with pneumatic connections (pneumoelectronic switches 23-25) in a humid environment of the bath reduces the risk of electric shock to the medical staff and patient.

The first 26 and second 27 blocking elements are designed to exclude the simultaneous operation of electric drives 15 and 17, thereby reducing the risk of injuries to medical staff and the patient during the procedure. In the device manufactured by the applicant, these elements are implemented on the basis of the commercially available microswitch Z-15GQ-22B AM 1308 (15A, 250V).

The sound signaling device 28 is intended for sound informing the medical staff and the patient about the operation of the device.

The power supply unit 29 is designed to generate various voltages of electric current at its outputs. At its output 58, for example, a direct voltage of 24 V of different polarity is generated to power the electric drive 15, at the output 61 is a filtered alternating voltage of 220 V to power the electric pump 32 and other nodes, at the output 62 is a constant voltage of 5 V, etc.

Block 29 is equipped with one-position electrical switches 30 "Shield-down" and 31 "Shield-up". When the “Shield-down” button 30 is pressed, block 29 generates a 24 V voltage of one polarity at its output 58, which, through the contacts of the blocking element 26, makes the electric motor 71 of the electric drive 15 rotate in one direction. When the Shield-Up button 31 is pressed, block 29 generates a constant voltage 24 V of opposite polarity at its output 58, which, through the contacts of the blocking element 26, causes the electric motor 71 of the electric drive 15 to rotate in the opposite direction.

In the device manufactured by the applicant, the electrical switches 30 “Shield-down” and 31 “Shield-up” are implemented on the basis of a commercially available electrical button without fixing the model PSW 65-28B.

The hydromassage unit is intended for the formation of water jets providing hydromassage of the paravertebral muscles and ligaments of the patient.

The temperature indicator 39 is designed to control the temperature of the water poured into the bath 1.

Flexible eyeliner 40 (figure 4) are used to connect the node 36 of the filling device to an external water supply system.

Overflow hole 45 is designed to protect the bath 1 from overfilling and draining excess water from the bath 1.

Removable crossbars 49 with hooks 50 are designed to exclude the swinging of the shield 10 when placing the patient on it or when descending from it.

Headrest 51 provides a more comfortable position for the patient’s head when performing procedures.

The support 52 can be used when placing the patient on the shield 10 or when descending from it.

Hook 53 is necessary when connecting the third flexible connection 14 with the head part of the bath 1 (Fig. 5, a).

The pointer 54 of the level of the initial filling of water, the level of which is below the level of the overflow hole 45 of the bath 1, is designed to save water used in the implementation of the procedures. Shield 10 with the patient, descending into the bath 1, increases the level of water in it. If the initial water level in the bath 1 was higher than the level of the pointer 54, its excess through the hole 45 will uselessly go into the sewer. The pointer 54 can be performed, for example, by applying a strip of water-repellent paint on the inner side surface of the bath 1 (figure 4).

The rollers 70 are designed to eliminate friction of the ends of the shield 10 on the inner walls of the bath 1.

Types and stages of medical procedures carried out using this device

The therapeutic procedures in the device are intended to provide a therapeutic (mechanical) effect on the patient in the aquatic environment (hydromassage, spinal traction, their combination). Depending on the disease and the patient’s condition, the attending physician determines the methodology and mode of therapeutic effect on the osteoarticular elements of the spine and paravertebral muscles and ligaments using this device.

In general, the following types of procedures can be implemented in a device:

- "Only hydromassage";

- "Traction of the cervical spine";

- "Traction of the lumbar spine";

- combination of the Hydromassage procedure with one of the last two procedures.

Preparing the device for procedures.

Using flexible eyeliner 40 (figure 4), the node 36 of the filling device is connected to an external water supply system. Node 42 drain device is connected to an external water drainage system.

Preparation of the device for procedures begins with the fact that the nurse conducts an external examination of the device. Bath 1 before performing the procedures must stand stably on the floor on the supports 6. Inside the bath 1 should not be any foreign objects.

After that, it disinfects the bath 1 and the shield 10. Disinfection is necessary to eliminate the risk of infection of the patient with infectious diseases when taking procedures. For disinfection, for example, a sponge moistened with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with the addition of 0.5% lotus type detergent can be used. Disinfection is completed by closing the water drain valve 43.

Opening the valves for cold 37 and hot 38 water, the nurse fills the bath 1 to the level of the pointer 54. In this case, the temperature of the water to be filled is controlled by the temperature indicator 39. Its value is set by the attending physician. The most comfortable water temperature for the patient when performing hydromassage and spinal traction is the range (29-31) ° С.

On the recommendation of the attending physician, bath 1 can be filled with heated mineral water (sulfide, radon, chloride, hydrogen sulfide, with sea salt, etc.). In bath 1, seawater, mineral solutions, herbal infusions can also be used, which significantly increase the effectiveness of the hydromassage and spinal traction procedures.

General preparation of a patent for procedures.

The selection of patients for hydromassage and underwater traction of the spine is carried out on the basis of a preliminary examination.

It is advisable that the patient be dressed in a bathing suit before taking the procedures. He should also have a towel with him.

The nurse places the stand 52 next to the bath 1 (figure 1). The patient, having previously stood on it, sits down and, further, lays on the shield 10.

If the patient cannot move independently, he is placed, for example, on a horizontal medical gurney, transported and placed side by side and along the length of bath 1. After that, he is transferred to shield 10.

The patient checks the temperature of the water. If necessary, the nurse brings the temperature of the water in bath 1 to a comfortable level for the patient.

Then proceed to the procedures of hydromassage and / or underwater traction of the patient’s spine according to the prescription of the attending physician.

Performing the procedure "Only hydromassage."

It is carried out in two stages:

- direct execution of the procedure;

- post-treatment activities.

When performing the procedure "Only hydromassage" fixing the patient on the bed 10 using elements 46-48 is optional, and the remote control 19 is not used.

The nurse inserts the plug 56 of the network cable 55 into the socket 57 and presses the button 64 of the pneumatic switch 23 "Network", built into the main panel 8. Under the influence of compressed air, the contacts of the on-off switch 66 are closed and remain in this state. Connecting the device to the mains is accompanied by a sound signal from the detector 28.

In the initial state of the device, its shield 10 is at the level of the upper edges of the sides of the bath 1. The nurse places on the head and foot parts of the shield 10 of the crossbar 49, as shown in figure 1 or 3.

Moreover, the contacts of the blocking element 26 are closed, due to which the electric drive 15 is unlocked and can, if necessary, be switched on under the action of the voltage coming from the output 58 of the power supply unit 29.

By pressing on the Shield-up on-off electric switch 31, the nurse turns on the electric drive 15, raises the shield 10 together with the crossbars 49 to the required level and immediately releases the button 64. Then it moves the crossbars 49 so that their hooks 50 are under the frame of the shield 10.

Pressing the button of the one-position switch 30 "Shield-down" she lowers the shield 10 down until the crossbars 49 touch the edges of the bath 1, and the shield 10 does not hang on the hooks 50, as shown in Fig.11. After that, she immediately releases the indicated button. As a result, the shield 10 will not swing on the corresponding cables, which ensures its stability when the patient is placed on it.

Next, the nurse helps the patient to sit on the shield 10 (back down). Moreover, his head can be located on the headrest 51, and the line of the spine should coincide with the longitudinal axis of the shield 10. In addition, the patient's spine should be located opposite its oblong hole 11.

Pressing the “Shield-up” button 31 again, the nurse lifts the shield 10 together with the patient and the crossbars 49, and then releases the shield 10 from the crossbars 49.

Further, by pressing the “Shield-down” button 30, the nurse lowers the shield 10 down until it completely fits on the bottom of the bath 1, which is accompanied by the sound signal of the signaling device 28.

After this, the patient remains motionless in the water for some time, which is necessary for warming up the muscles and ligaments of his back before taking the procedures.

Next, by pressing the button 64 of the hydromassage pneumatic switch 24, the nurse turns on the electric pump 32. As a result, water from the bath 1 through the filler hole 33 and the electric pump 32 is supplied under pressure to the nozzles 34 located in the openings 35 of the bath 1 (Fig. 3). The water jets formed in the nozzles 34 through the elongated hole 11 of the shield 10 have a therapeutic massage effect on the paravertebral muscles and ligaments of the patient's spine.

After the time of the hydromassage, the duration of which is set by the attending physician, the nurse repeatedly presses the button 64 of the pneumatic electric switch 24. Under the action of compressed air, the electric switch 66 switches (switches) to another stable state, thereby turning off the electric pump 32, and therefore, completing the “Hydromassage” procedure.

Further, by pressing the button of the electric switch 31 "Shield-up", the nurse raises the shield 10 together with the patient up (above the edges of the bath 1).

Note. With the beginning of the raising of the shield 10, the movable element 16 of the electric drive 15, moving, opens the contacts of the blocking element 27, thereby blocking the electric drive 17 traction from accidental inclusion when moving the shield.

Then she places the crossbars 49 on the head and foot parts of the shield 10 and pushes them so that their hooks 50 are under the frame of the shield 10. After that, again pressing the button of the switch 30 "Shield-down", lower the shield 10 until the frame of the shield 10 does not "hang" on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49 (Fig.11). Immediately releases the Shield-down switch button 30. Next, the nurse helps the patient to rise and descend from the shield 10. After that, the patient wipes himself with a towel and proceeds to the after-treatment measures.

The procedure ends with a bath disinfection 1.

Performing the procedure “Traction of the cervical spine.

Opening the valves of cold 37 and hot 38 water, the nurse fills the bath 1 to the level of the pointer 54. At the same time, she controls the temperature of the water to be filled in according to the temperature indicator 39.

At the same time, it hangs the shield 10, similar to that described above, on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49. The contacts of the blocking element 26 are closed, so that the electric drive 15 for moving the shield is unlocked, and the contacts of the blocking element 27, on the contrary, are open, the electric drive 17 is blocked, which excludes its accidental inclusion (on traction).

The nurse previously fixes the Glisson loop 46 on the patient’s head, and lays the pelvic girdle 48 on the shield 10 (Fig. 1). After that, the patient rests on the shield 10 over the pelvic girdle 48. The latter is fixed on the patient, and his carbines (not shown) cling to the third flexible connection 14 (Fig. 6, a and 7, b). The other end of the connection 14 is connected to the head part of the bath 1 (with hook 53), (Fig. 5, a, 7, b).

Note. When stretching the cervical spine, the pelvic girdle 48 is used to reduce the influence of the lifting force of water, "tearing" the patient's body from the shield 10 and thereby reducing the effectiveness of traction (Fig.13).

When stretching the cervical spine under the patient's head, a headrest 51 can be placed (Fig. 1). It is possible to replace the headrest 51 with a towel folded into a roll or a heating pad with a water temperature of 35-37 ° C.

By pressing the Shield-up button of the electric switch 31, the nurse raises the shield 10, releases it from the crossbars 49, and then, by pressing the Shield-down electric switch 30 button 30, it lowers the shield 10 together with the patient until it completely fits on the bottom of the bath 1. In this case, the contacts of the blocking element 27 are closed, preparing the device for the drawing procedure, which is accompanied by the sound signal of the signaling device 28.

Next, the nurse connects the Glisson loop 46 through the second flexible connection 13 thrown over the roller 74, with the L-shaped lever 19 (Fig. 5, a). After this, the patient is warmed up in bath 1 for some time.

The cervical traction procedure is carried out in three stages:

- input of procedure parameters;

- direct execution of the procedure;

- post-treatment activities.

Traction of the cervical spine can be carried out by two methods. According to the first method, the load on the spine during one session increases during the procedure and decreases towards its end ("constant" mode, see Fig. 12, a). According to the second method, the load periodically increases and decreases during one ongoing session ("variable" mode, see Fig. 12, b).

Designations shown in Fig.12:

T _at - the time of the procedure,

F _in - traction force,

t ₀ - time point of the start of the procedure,

t ₁ , t ₅ - time points of the beginning of the extension,

t ₂ , t ₆ - moments of time to achieve a given traction force F _max (the beginning of the active phase of traction),

t ₃ - time point of completion of the active phase of the traction (beginning of the reverse stroke of the traction drive)

t ₄ - the time moment of the beginning of the passive phase of the extension,

t ₅ - the time moment of completion of the passive phase of the extension,

t _n - the point in time to achieve a zero level of traction force,

t _u - time point when the drive reaches the traction of the original position,

t _k is the time moment of completion of the procedure,

(t ₂ -t ₁ ) is the time to reach a given traction force F _max (period of increase in the traction force),

(t ₃ -t ₂ ) is the duration of the active phase,

(t ₅ -t ₄ ) is the duration of the passive phase,

(t _n -t _k ) is the period of weakening of the traction force,

(t _u -t _k ) is the period of the return of the traction electric drive to its original position,

(t _k -t ₀ ) - the duration of the procedure

n is the number of traction cycles.

A specific method of traction is set by your doctor.

The input of the parameters of the procedure is carried out through the remote control 21, built into the main panel 8 of the bath 1. In particular, these parameters include:

- traction mode ("constant" or "variable");

- time (duration) of the procedure;

- maximum and minimum traction forces;

- rise time of the traction force;

- the duration of the "passive" and "active" phases of elongation;

- time attenuation of the force of traction;

- the number of procedures and time intervals between them.

Upon completion of the input of the parameters of the procedure, the nurse hands the patient a pneumatic electric switch 25 "Emergency", explains to him how to use it and starts the neck extension procedure by pressing the "Start" button on the remote control 21 (not shown), which is accompanied by a sound signal from the signaling device 28.

As a result, the voltage from the output 59 of the program unit 20 through the closed contacts of the blocking element 27 is supplied to the actuator 17 and turns it on. As a result, its movable element 18 begins to move, which leads to the opening of the contacts of the blocking element 26 and, as a result, to block the electric drive 15 and prohibit the movement of the shield 10 during traction.

In addition, along the chain: L-shaped lever 19 - the second flexible connection 13 - Glisson loop 46 produces a therapeutic effect on the cervical spine of the patient (Fig.7.6).

When performing this traction procedure, said movable element 18 also has a mechanical effect on the strain gauge 22, which generates electrical signals proportional to the magnitude of the traction force. These signals from the output of the strain gauge 22 are fed to the program unit 20, where they are compared with the values of the traction forces specified by the traction program. According to the results of the comparison, the program unit 20, changing the time parameters and polarity of the signals at its output 59, controls the operation of the electric drive 17, thereby ensuring the implementation of the recorded traction program.

If, however, there is an excess of the threshold force of the traction over the threshold value, the program unit 1 removes the voltage at its output 59, which leads to a stop of the drive 17 and the termination of the traction, which is accompanied by the sound signals of the signaling device 28.

Note. If the patient feels unwell during the procedure for stretching the cervical spine, he can use the 25 "Emergency" pneumatic-electric switch. When he compresses the "pear" 67, air from it under pressure through a hose 68 enters the on-off switch 69 and closes its electrical contacts. As a result, the voltage from the output 62 of the power supply unit 29 is supplied to the input 73 of the program unit 18, which perceives it as a signal to stop the electric drive 17. For this, the program unit 20 removes the voltage at its output 59.

With the cessation of pressing the bulb 67, the air pressure inside the switch 69 drops, which leads to the opening of its contacts and the removal of voltage from the input 59 of the program unit 20.

After the procedure expires, the program unit 20 removes the voltage at its output 59, which leads to a stop of the actuator 17 and its return to its original state, which is accompanied by a sound signal from the signaling device 28. With the return of the actuator 17 to its original state, its movable element 18 closes the contacts of the blocking element 26 .

The nurse removes the Glisson loop 46 from the patient’s head, then by pressing the Shield-up pneumatic switch 31 raises the shield 10 together with the patient, places the shield 10 on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49, unfastens the pelvic girdle belts 48 and helps the patient to come down from the shield 10. After of this, the patient proceeds to the after-treatment measures, and the nurse, opening the valve 43, drains the water from the bath 1 and disinfects it.

Performing the procedure “Traction of the lumbar spine”

The implementation of this procedure does not differ significantly from the procedure for traction of the cervical spine.

Opening the valves of cold 37 and hot 38 water, the nurse fills the bath 1 to the level of the pointer 54. At the same time, she controls the temperature of the water being poured according to the pointer 39.

At the same time, it hangs the shield 10, similar to that described above, on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49. The contacts of the blocking element 26 are closed, so that the electric drive 15 for moving the shield is unlocked, and the contacts of the blocking element 27, on the contrary, are open, the electric drive 17 is blocked from being accidentally turned on.

The nurse pre-lays on the shield 10 chest 47 and pelvic 48 girdles. After that, the patient lies on top of them on the shield 10. The nurse clings the straps of the chest belt 47 to the head of the shield frame 10 (Fig. 1) and fixes it on the patient. Further, she also fixes the pelvic girdle 48 on it, and its carabiners (not shown) clings to the third flexible connection 14 (Fig. 6, b and 7, c). In this case, the other end of the flexible connection 14, thrown over the roller 75, is connected to the L-shaped bracket 19 of the electric drive 17.

Under the patient’s head, a headrest 51 can be placed (FIG. 1). It is possible to replace the headrest 51 with a towel folded into a roll.

By pressing the Shield-up button of the electric switch 31, the nurse raises the shield 10, releases it from the crossbars 49, and then, by pressing the Shield-down electric switch 30 button 30, it lowers the shield 10 together with the patient until it completely fits on the bottom of the bath 1. In this case, the contacts of the blocking element 27 are closed, preparing the device for the drawing procedure. The indicated is accompanied by a sound signal of the signaling device 28. After this, the patient is heated for some time in the bath 1. The stretching procedure is carried out in three stages:

- input of procedure parameters;

- direct execution of the procedure;

- post-treatment activities.

Traction of the lumbar spine can also be carried out by two methods. According to the first method, the load on the spine during one session increases during the procedure and decreases towards its end ("constant" mode, see Fig. 12, a). According to the second method, the load periodically increases and decreases during one ongoing session ("variable" mode). The specific method of traction is chosen by the attending physician.

The input of the parameters of the procedure is carried out through the remote control 21, built into the main panel 8 of the bath 1. In particular, these parameters include:

- traction mode ("constant" or "variable");

- time (duration) of the procedure;

- maximum and minimum traction forces;

- rise time of the traction force;

- the duration of the "passive" and "active" phases of elongation;

- time weakening of the traction force, etc.

Upon completion of the input of the parameters of the procedure, the nurse hands the patient the pneumatic electric switch 25 "Emergency", explains to him how to use it and starts the lumbar traction procedure by pressing the "Start" button on the remote control 21 (not shown), which is accompanied by the sound signal of the signaling device 28.

As a result, the voltage from the output 59 of the program unit 20 through the closed contacts of the blocking element 27 is supplied to the actuator 17 and turns it on. As a result, its movable element 18 begins to move, which leads to the opening of the contacts of the blocking element 26 and, as a result, to block the electric drive 15 and prohibit the movement of the shield 10 during traction.

In addition, the chain: L-shaped lever 19 - the third flexible connection 14 - pelvic girdle 48 produces a therapeutic effect on the lumbar spine (Fig.5, b and 7, c).

When performing this traction procedure, said movable element 18 also has a mechanical effect on the strain gauge 22, which generates electrical signals proportional to the magnitude of the traction force. These signals from the output of the strain gauge 22 are fed to the program unit 20, where they are compared with the values of the traction forces specified by the traction program. According to the results of the comparison, the program unit 20, changing the time parameters and polarity of the signals at its output 59, controls the operation of the electric drive 17, thereby ensuring the implementation of the recorded traction program.

If, however, there is an excess of the traction force threshold over the threshold value, the program unit 1 removes the voltage at its output 59, which leads to a stop of the electric drive 17 and the cessation of traction, which is accompanied by the sound signals of the signaling device 28.

Note. If the patient feels unwell during the traction procedure, he can use the 25 “Emergency” pneumatic-electric switch. When they press the "bulb" 67, air from it under pressure through a hose 68 enters the on-off switch 69 and closes its electrical contacts. As a result, the voltage from the corresponding output 62 of the power supply unit 29 is supplied to the input 73 of the program unit 20, which perceives it as a signal to stop the electric drive 17. For this, the program unit 20 disconnects the voltage at its output 59.

With the cessation of pressing the bulb 67, the air pressure inside the switch 69 drops, which leads to the opening of its contacts and the removal of voltage from the input 73 of the program unit 20.

After the procedure expires, the program unit 20 removes the voltage at its output 59, which leads to a stop of the actuator 17 and its return to its original state. The indicated is accompanied by a sound signal of the signaling device 28. With the return of the electric drive 17 to its original state, its movable element 18 closes the contacts of the blocking element 26.

By pressing the Shield-Up pneumatic switch 31, the nurse raises the shield 10 together with the patient, places the shield 10 on the hooks 50 of the crossbars 49, unfastens the chest and pelvic belts 48 and helps the patient to go down from the shield 10. After that, the patient is transferred to the ward, where he begins after-treatment activities, and the nurse, opening valve 43, drains the water from bath 1 and disinfects it.

Combined procedure.

As noted above, the structural scheme of the device allows you to combine the procedure of stretching the spine with hydromassage of the paravertebral muscles and ligaments.

The number and duration of the described procedures, the sequence of their implementation is determined by the attending physician.

Post-treatment activities

After-treatment measures begin with an examination by the attending physician. After that, he is sent to the ward (inpatients) or to the rest room for 1.5-2 hours of rest to consolidate the effect of massage and stretching of the vertebral discs and the release of nerve processes. In some cases, it is also advisable to carry out a relaxation massage with elements of passive gymnastics, drug therapy, physiotherapy, etc., which is determined by the attending physician.

Results Achieved

In the prototype, load tanks and a hydraulic cylinder were used as a source of loading force for the cervical and separately lumbar spine, and also as a source of the force for moving the shield. In the inventive device, individual loading mechanisms of the spine are replaced by a single loading mechanism, which simplifies the design of the device. Simplification of the device is also achieved by using instead of load tanks and hydraulic cylinders of electric drives.

The use of electric drives also allows you to quickly adjust the traction force, automate the traction procedures as much as possible, and facilitate the work of the nursing staff.

The prototype uses a telescopic lever with a scale (dial) to set the required value of the loading force. The composition of the inventive device includes a load force sensor (strain gauge), which converts the current traction forces into electrical signals. These signals are sent to the program unit for comparison with the set values of the traction forces. This feedback allows you to increase the accuracy of the dosage of the traction force and thereby reduce the risk of injury during traction.

In the inventive device, the reduction of the risk of injuries is also achieved due to the possibility of an emergency stop of the device using an emergency pneumatic electrical switch.

In addition, the presence of a program unit in the device allows you to pre-program the procedure for stretching the spine.

In the inventive device for patients created more comfortable conditions for the adoption of procedures (the presence of a head restraint, stands, crossbars, pneumatic-electric switch "Emergency", etc.).

The presence of mechanical connections between the first electric drive and with the foot and head parts of the shield allows you to raise it to different heights, including above or below the level of the edges of the bath, which facilitates access to different internal areas of the bath during sanitary treatment.

In the inventive device, due to the ability to change in a wide range of mechanical effects on both the spine and paravertebral muscles and ligaments, it increases the effectiveness of treatment, creates optimal conditions for procedures, and reduces treatment time.

Thus, in the described device, the treatment (prophylaxis) of diseases is provided by mechanical effects on the spinal column, osteo-articular elements of the spine and the paravertebral muscles and ligaments of the patient (spinal mechanotherapy). On Fig shows the forces acting in the bath on the patient, where the positions mean:

76 - direction of the traction force of the cervical spine;

77 - the direction of the traction force of the lumbar spine;

78 - direction of hydromassage forces;

79 - direction of the forces of raising and lowering the shield with the patient;

80 - direction of gravity (gravity) acting on the patient;

81 - the lifting force of the water in the bath;

82 - shield weight.

Forces 76 and 77 have a therapeutic mechanical effect along the axis of the spine, and forces 78 have a therapeutic mechanical effect perpendicular to the axis of the spine.

The presence of an aqueous medium (force 81) sharply reduces the effect of the force of gravity (force 80) and, as a result, reduces the forces 76 and 77 required to stretch the spine (which facilitates the stretching procedure).

The invention can find application in medical and preventive and sanatorium medical institutions of a wide profile for continuous or periodic horizontal traction and hydromassage of the spine in the bath (water traction therapy). It is suitable for installation and operation in almost any medical facility, dispensary, sanatorium.

Verification of compliance of the claimed device with the patentability condition "industrial applicability".

According to the applicant, the information given in the description is sufficient to implement the device. Such a device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine does not cause difficulties in its manufacture. The applicant has made and tested a prototype of the proposed device.

The set of essential features characterizing the essence of the invention, in principle, can be reused.

The above allows us to conclude that the invention meets the condition of patentability "industrial applicability" under applicable law.

Thus, the proposed device meets all the required conditions of patentability and has significant advantages compared to its well-known analogues.

Information sources

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4. Balneology and physiotherapy. / Ed. Bogolyubova V.M. - M .: Medicine, 1985, t.1., P.205.

5. Pool equipment for rehabilitation treatment. - M.: Medicine, 1968, Fig. 6.

6. Khabirov F.A. Clinical neurology of the spine. - Kazan, 2003, p.441-443.

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10. Copyright St. USSR No. 971316 for the invention of a device for spinal traction. Publ. 1982 g.

11. Copyright St. USSR No. 2193383 for the invention of a device for underwater traction of the spine. Publ. 2002

12. Copyright St. USSR №2040230 for the invention "Installation for underwater traction of the spine." Publ. 1995 year

13. Copyright St. USSR No. 2040231 for the invention "Installation for underwater traction of the spine." Publ. 1995 year

14. Copyright St. USSR No. 1664316 for the invention of a device for underwater traction of the spine. Publ. 1983 year

15.Avtorsky St. USSR No. 764674 for the invention "Installation for traction of the spine." Publ. 1980 year

16. RF patent №2257880 for the invention of "Device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine." IPC A61H 1/02. Publ. August 10, 2005 (prototype).

Claims (9)

1. Device for underwater horizontal traction of the spine, containing a bath with an inclined bottom and the head, foot and aggregate compartments; a metal base configured to place a bath on it; main and additional panels mounted respectively above the head and foot compartments of the bath; means for accommodating the patient, installed in the bathtub and made in the form of a movable shield with a through elongated hole corresponding to the axis of the spine; the first, second and third flexible connections, made in the form of cables thrown on the rollers; the mechanism for raising and lowering the shield installed in the aggregate compartment and connected through the first flexible connection with the foot part of the shield; means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine; a water filling unit, made in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with valves and a water temperature indicator integrated in the main panel, and connected to an external water supply system and a bath inlet; a water discharge unit, made in the foot compartment of the bathtub and equipped with a valve integrated in the additional panel, and connected to the drain and overflow openings of the bathtub and an external water drainage system; a hydromassage unit and patient fixation elements made in the form of a Glisson loop and a chest and pelvic girdles, and the chest girdle is made with the possibility of connection with the head of the shield, characterized in that it contains a program unit installed in the head compartment of the bath; electronic control panel integrated in the main panel of the bathtub and electrically connected to the program unit; a load force sensor interacting with a means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine and made in the form of a strain gauge, the electrical output of which is connected to the program unit; a power supply unit located in the head compartment of the bathtub and equipped with Shield-down and Shield-up electrical switches integrated in the main panel of the bathtub; Pneumo-electric switches "Network" and "Hydromassage" built into the main panel of the bathtub; pneumatic-electrical switch "Emergency", made remote; and the first and second blocking elements, made in the form of limit switches, while the hydromassage unit is located in the aggregate compartment and is made in the form of an electric pump, the suction inlet of which is connected to the outlet hole of the bathtub, and the outlet is connected to nozzles installed in the openings on the bottom of the bathtub opposite the elongated shield holes; the mechanism for raising and lowering the shield through the first flexible connection is additionally connected to the head of the shield and is made in the form of a first electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the second blocking element; means for stretching the cervical or lumbar spine is placed in the head compartment of the bath and is made in the form of a second electric drive with a movable element, mechanically interacting with the first blocking element and equipped with a L-shaped lever; the first blocking element is configured to electrically connect the first electric drive to the first output of the power supply unit, and the second blocking element is configured to electrically connect the second electric drive to the program unit; Pneumo-electric switch "Network" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the input of the power supply unit with a cable equipped with a plug; the hydromassage pneumatic-electric switch is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the second output of the power supply unit with an electric pump; pneumatic-electrical switch "Emergency" is made with the possibility of electrical connection of the third output of the power supply unit with the program unit; the Glisson loop is made with the possibility of connection through the second flexible connection, if necessary, with the L-shaped lever, and the pelvic girdle is made with the possibility of connection through the third flexible connection, if necessary, with the head of the bath or with the L-shaped lever. 2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is equipped with a headrest placed, if necessary, on the head of the shield, and a stand, placed, if necessary, next to the bathtub. 3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is equipped with an audible warning device, the input of which is electrically connected to an electronic control panel. 4. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the bath is equipped with two removable rungs placed, if necessary, across the bath in its head and foot parts, each of the rungs provided with a pair of hooks, and the shield is made to be suspended, if necessary , on these hooks. 5. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the ends of the shield are equipped with rollers. 6. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the metal base is equipped with height-adjustable supports, as well as side panels that cover the outside of the bath. 7. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that on the inner wall of the bath is made a level indicator of the initial water fill, located below the level of the overflow hole of the bath. 8. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that each of the pneumatic and electric switches "Network" and "Hydromassage" is made in the form of a piston pneumatically connected through an air hose to a two-position electric switch. 9. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the "Emergency" pneumatic-electric switch is made in the form of a "pear" pneumatically connected through an air hose to a single-position electric switch.

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