Differential air pressure systems and methods of using and calibrating such systems for mobility impaired users

Abstract

Described herein are various embodiments of differential air pressure systems and methods of using and calibration such systems for individuals with impaired mobility. The differential air pressure systems may include an access assist device configured to help a mobility impaired user to stand in a pressure chamber configured to apply a positive pressure on a portion of the user's body in the sealed pressure chamber. The system may also include load sensors configured to measure the user's weight exerted inside and outside the chamber. The system may be calibrated by determining a relationship between the actual weight of the user and the pressure in the chamber, where the actual weight of the user may be measured by more than one load sensor and at least one load sensor is not in the pressure chamber.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 423,124, filed Mar. 16, 2012, titled “DIFFERENTIAL AIR PRESSURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING AND CALIBRATING SUCH SYSTEMS FOR MOBILITY IMPAIRED USERS” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0238921, which claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 454,432, filed on Mar. 18, 2011 and titled “DIFFERENTIAL AIR PRESSURE SYSTEMS.”INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE[0002]All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.FIELD[0003]Described herein are various embodiments of differential air pressure systems for use by individuals with impaired mobility and methods of calibrating and using such systems.BACKGROUND[0004]Methods of counteracting grav...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a differential pressure system for improving the mobility and cardiovascular function of disabled individuals. The system includes a pressure chamber with a seal interface that applies pressure to the user's body while they are sealed inside. The system also includes an exercise device and load sensors to measure the weight of the user during use. A processor calibrates the system by measuring the pressure in the chamber and the weight of the user at different pressure points. The calibration is used to generate a relationship between pressure and weight, which is then used to regulate the pressure in the chamber. The system can improve mobility, cardiovascular function, and motor skills in stroke patients.

Problems solved by technology

However, harness systems may cause pressure points that may lead to discomfort and sometimes even induce injuries.

However, the upward supporting force provided by such water-based systems distributes unevenly on a user's body, varying with the depth of the user's body from the water surface.

Moreover, the viscous drag of the water may substantially alter the muscle activation patterns of the user.

In some instances, an individual may have limited or low degree of mobility which may hinder his ability to access the chamber.

For example, patients who have suffered a stroke or physical injury may be wheelchair-bound or bedridden and unable to walk or stand independently without a great deal of assistance.

Accordingly, these patients with varying levels of impaired mobility may not be able to take advantage of the many benefits of differential air pressure therapy because of the difficulty in getting in and out of the systems.

In addition, another obstacle to providing treatment for the mobility impaired user is the proper calibration of a DAP system for the disabled user.

Such calibration methods may be used for patients with a high degree of mobility requiring none or minimum assistance, but are difficult or impossible to employ for individuals who require greater assistance, especially for those who cannot bear their own weight upright.

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