Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated wound dressing device designed to assist users in dressing wounds by accurately detecting both the presence and location of the wound on the user’s body, ensuring targeted treatment, improving healing efficiency, reducing the risk of infection, and providing a more reliable and hygienic wound care solution.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Wound dressing is a critical aspect of wound care, serving as a protective covering that promotes healing, prevents infection, and reduces complications. It provides a barrier against bacteria, dirt, and other external contaminants that could exacerbate the wound, while also absorbing excess fluids like blood or exudate, maintaining an optimal moisture balance for healing. Proper wound dressing ensures that the wound environment remains conducive to tissue regeneration, reducing the risk of scarring and promoting faster recovery. In cases of more severe wounds, such as burns, surgical incisions, or traumatic injuries, dressing helps in managing pain, preventing further damage, and aiding in the body’s natural healing process. Moreover, it allows for monitoring the wound’s progress without constant exposure, minimizing risk of further contamination. Effective wound dressing not only speeds up recovery but also improves comfort for the patient, making it an essential component of both minor and major wound management.

[0003] Traditional methods of wound dressing often involved using simple materials like gauze, bandages, or cloth to cover the wound. These dressings primarily served as barriers to dirt and bacteria, and were frequently changed to monitor the healing process. However, they have several drawbacks. First, traditional dressings are prone to sticking to the wound, causing pain and potentially disrupting newly-formed tissue when removed. They also lack the ability to maintain an optimal moisture environment, which is essential for efficient healing. As a result, they can lead to excessive dryness or moisture buildup, both of which hinder tissue regeneration. Additionally, traditional dressings are less effective in absorbing exudate, increasing the risk of infection if not changed regularly. The need for frequent dressing changes can be time-consuming and uncomfortable for patients. Moreover, these methods do not provide advanced features like antimicrobial protection or moisture control, which modern dressings offer to enhance healing outcomes.

[0004] AU2018338065B2 provides a device, method and assembly for use in wound treatment. Specifically disclosed is a wound dressing device; an assembly, e.g. in the form of a kit-of-parts, which comprises the device as one of its components; and a method of wound dressing and a use wherein the device is a key component. The device comprises a cavity defined by concave walls surrounded by lips configured for attachment to skin in a fluid tight manner and a closure removably fixed to the lips and sealing the cavity. The assembly also comprises, as other of its components a device for introducing blood into the cavity after it is fixed over a wound to permit the blood to clot over the wound within the cavity. In use, the clotting mold device is fixed on top of a wound, and blood is introduced into the mold space to permit the blood to clot within the mold space to thereby form a blood clot over the wound.

[0005] US10667956B2 relates to a transparent, absorbent device for the dressing of wounds and insertion sites of percutaneous and drug delivery devices. The device provides 360 degree or complete circumferential protection of a wound or insertion site of a percutaneous or drug delivery device and comprises a hydrogel center and at least one absorbent material. The hydrogel center can optionally comprise a bioactive agent(s).

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed for use in wound treatment, offering various methods of care and healing; however, these devices often fall short in providing accurate assistance to users as they are incapable of detecting either the presence or precise location of the wound on the user’s body. As a result, they lack the ability to ensure targeted and efficient dressing application, potentially leading to improper wound care, prolonged healing, and increased risk of infection, highlighting the need for more advanced systems that can automatically identify wound locations and facilitate the proper treatment process for optimal recovery.

[0007] Hence, to overcome the limitations of conventional wound treatment devices, there is a need in the art to develop a device that assists user in dressing a wound by accurately detecting both the presence and location of the wound on the user's body. Such a device would ensure more precise and effective wound care by automatically identifying the affected area, allowing for targeted application of dressings and treatments. This innovation would improve healing outcomes, reduce the risk of infection, and provide users with a more efficient, reliable, and user-friendly solution for managing various types of wounds.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that assists a user in dressing a wound by accurately detecting both the presence and location of the wound on the user’s body, enabling precise application of treatment and dressing, ensuring optimal care, and improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of wound management.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of treating a wound with appropriate herbal preparations, adjusting the treatment based on the wound's severity, ensuring the use of specific herbs tailored to the condition, and promoting faster healing while minimizing the risk of infection or complications associated with inadequate or inappropriate treatment.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of reducing the spread of venom and minimizing the risk of further harm to the user.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an automated wound dressing device that assists users by accurately detecting both the presence and location of a wound on the body, enabling precise application of treatment, improving healing outcomes, reducing infection risks, and providing a more efficient, hygienic, and user-friendly solution for effective wound care and management.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated wound dressing device, comprises of a body with a door to accessed by a user for accommodation on a seat arranged inside the body, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed inside the body detect presence of wound on the user’s body, an ultrasonic sensor integrated inside the monitors location of the wound on the user’s body, a motorized gripper installed inside the body and integrated with a sensing module determine kind of the user’s wound, a multi-sectioned chamber arranged inside the body with multiple electronically controlled nozzles dispense an optimum amount of varying kinds of herbs in a container arranged inside the body, a motorized stirrer integrated at base of the container mix the herbs to form a herbal preparation, a pair of robotic arms installed inside the body tie a knot of a fabric stored inside the body on the user’s body part to prevent flow of poison from the wound to other body parts of the user, a motorized iris lid integrated at base of the container dispense an appropriate portion of the herbal preparation on the user’s wound, and a spatula integrated with the arm for spreading the preparation on the wound in view of healing the user’s wound.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an internal view of an automated wound dressing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0020] The present invention relates to an automated wound dressing device that helps users dress a wound by accurately detecting its presence and location on the body, ensuring precise application of treatment, enhancing healing efficiency, reducing infection risks, and providing a more reliable, hygienic, and user-friendly solution for wound care.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an internal view of an automated wound dressing device is illustrated, comprising a body 101 with a door 102, a seat 103 arranged inside the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed inside the body 101, a motorized gripper 105 installed inside the body 101 with a sensing module 106, a multi-sectioned chamber arranged inside the body 101 and integrated with multiple electronically controlled nozzles 107, a container 108 arranged inside the body 101 with a motorized stirrer 109 integrated at base, a pair of robotic arms 110 installed inside the body 101, a fabric 111 stored inside the body 101, a motorized iris lid 112 integrated at base of the container 108, a spatula 113 integrated with the arms 110, a vertical pole 115 arranged inside the body and a motorized dual axis lead screw 114 arranged on ceiling of the body 101.

[0022] The device proposed herein includes a body 101 that is developed to be positioned on a ground surface, for a dressing of wound of the user. The body 101 as mentioned herein serves as a structural foundation to various components associated with the device, wherein the body 101 is made up of material that includes but not limited to stainless steel, which in turn ensures that the device is of generous size and is light in weight.

[0023] The body 101 is equipped with a door 102 that allows the user to access the interior, where a seat 103 is provided to accommodate the user for the purpose of wound treatment, ensuring a comfortable and accessible position for effective care and facilitating the necessary procedures within the enclosed space of the body 101.

[0024] In order to activate functioning of the device, a user is required to manually switch on the device by pressing a button positioned on the body 101, wherein the button used herein is a push button. Upon pressing of the button, the circuits get closed allowing conduction of electricity that leads to activation of the device and vice versa.

[0025] Upon activation of the device by the user, an inbuilt microcontroller embedded within the body 101 and linked to the switch generates a command to activate an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed inside the body 101 to detect presence of wound on the user’s body. The imaging unit 104 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images inside of the body 101, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 104 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines presence of wound on the user’s body.

[0026] The imaging unit 104 works in sync with an ultrasonic sensor integrated inside the body 101 for monitoring location of the wound on the user’s body. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting high-frequency sound waves that travel through the air and bounce back upon hitting an object or surface, such as the user’s skin. The sensor measures the time it takes for the sound waves to return, calculating the distance to the wound location. By continuously emitting and receiving these sound waves, the sensor accurately monitors the wound's position on the body 101, enabling the microcontroller to monitor location of the wound on the user’s body.

[0027] In response to the monitored location of the wound on the user’s body, the microcontroller actuates a motorized gripper 105 installed inside the body 101 and integrated with a sensing module 106 to determine kind of the user’s wound. The motorized gripper 105 operates as a robotic hand that is designed to position the sensing module 106 over wound of the user effectively. The gripper 105 typically incorporates a motorized mechanism that controls the opening and closing of the jaws of the gripper 105. The motor generates the necessary force to move the gripper’s 105 fingers for the opening and closing of the jaws with precision. This motorized action is often controlled by the microcontroller for the smooth and precise positioning of the sensing module 106 over wound of the user, in view of determining kind of the user’s wound.

[0028] The sensing module 106 includes a color sensor, non-contact moisture sensor and an odor sensor to work in collaboration to assess the nature of a user's wound by gathering complementary data. The color sensor detects changes in the wound's appearance, identifying variations in redness, bruising, or tissue damage that indicates inflammation, infection, or healing stages. The non-contact moisture sensor measures the level of moisture around the wound, providing insights into potential infection, fluid leakage, or excessive dryness, which could suggest poor healing or risk of infection. Lastly, the odor sensor detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by bacteria or decaying tissue, offering valuable information about possible infections or tissue necrosis. By integrating the data from these sensors, the microcontroller determine kind of the user’s wound.

[0029] A sensing unit installed on an armrests of said seat and including a Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Sensor, Photoplethysmogram (PPG) Sensor, Infrared Sensor, and Electromyography (EMG) Sensor, monitors vital health parameters of said user. The Blood Oxygen (SpO2) sensor works by emitting light through the skin and measuring the absorption of different wavelengths by oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, allowing the detection of oxygen saturation levels. The Photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor monitors changes in light absorption caused by blood flow, helping to track heart rate and circulatory health. The Infrared sensor utilizes infrared light to penetrate the skin and measure body temperature or detect blood flow variations, complementing the other sensors in assessing overall health. The Electromyography (EMG) sensor detects electrical activity produced by muscles, helping monitor muscle function, stress, and fatigue levels. These sensors work in sync to continuously gather real-time data on the user's vital health parameters. The collected information is processed by the microcontroller, providing insights into oxygen levels, heart rate, muscle activity, temperature, and other key metrics, and accordingly evaluate severity of said wound.

[0030] A vertical pole 115 arranged inside said body and integrated with an infrared sensor is actuated by the microcontroller for analyzing any tissue damage, signs of infection or blood clot at said wound. The vertical pole 115 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the pole 115 . The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the pole 115 and due to applied pressure the pole 115 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the vertical pole 115 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the pole 115 in order to positon the infrared sensor over wound of the user. The infrared sensor works by emitting infrared light onto the wound area and measuring the light reflected back from the tissue. Variations in the reflected light are analyzed to detect temperature differences, which can indicate inflammation, tissue damage, infection, or the presence of a blood clot. Higher temperatures may suggest infection or active inflammation, while changes in blood flow could signal a clot. By monitoring these thermal patterns, the microcontroller evaluates severity of said wound.

[0031] The user needs to provide the cause of the wound, and based on this input, the microcontroller evaluates a required number of herbs for healing the user’s wound. For example, if a snake bites the person, they must specify the cause as a snakebite. The system will then display pictures of various types of snakes (based on local species, which are automatically retrieved via the GPS module). The injured person must select the correct type of snake, and the system will apply the appropriate treatment.

[0032] In accordance to the determined kind of the user’s wound, the microcontroller evaluates a required number of herbs for healing the user’s wound, and accordingly actuates multiple electronically controlled nozzles 107 integrated with a multi-sectioned chamber arranged inside the body 101 to dispense an optimum amount of varying kinds of herbs from the chamber in a container 108 arranged inside the body 101. The electronically controlled nozzles 107 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity to be dispensed. Upon actuation of nozzle by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes herbs within the chamber, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the solution to be dispensed out with a high force in the container 108.

[0033] Upon collection of the herbs in the container 108, the microcontroller actuates a motorized stirrer 109 integrated at base of the container 108 to rotate for mixing the herbs and blender to form an herbal preparation. The motorized stirrer 109 functions by rotating a set of blades or paddles within the container 108, effectively mixing the herbs to create a uniform herbal preparation. When activated, the motor drives the stirrer 109 at a controlled speed, ensuring thorough blending of the herbs.

[0034] In case mixing of said ingredients requires heating/cooling or ultrasonic waves, the microcontroller activates a Peltier unit coupled with a thermostat and an ultrasonic wave generator integrated in said container to generate heating/cooling or ultrasonic waves while mixing of said ingredients. The Peltier unit, coupled with a thermostat and an ultrasonic wave generator, operates to regulate temperature and generate ultrasonic waves while mixing ingredients. The Peltier unit functions by transferring heat from one side of the device to the other, providing either cooling or heating based on the direction of current flow, effectively controlling the temperature of the mixing environment. The thermostat monitors and adjusts the temperature by activating or deactivating the Peltier unit as needed to maintain the desired range. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic wave generator emits high-frequency sound waves that create intense vibrations in the liquid or mixture, promoting faster and more efficient mixing of ingredients. The ultrasonic waves help break down particles, improve consistency, and ensure uniform distribution of components within the mixture.

[0035] If the detected wound corresponds to a snakebite, the microcontroller activates a pair of robotic arms 110 inside the body 101 to retrieve a fabric 111 stored within body 101. The robotic arms 110 comprises of a robotic link and a clamp attached to the link. The robotic link is made of several segments that are attached together by joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the robotic link to complete a specific motion of the arms 110. Upon actuation of the robotic arms 110 by the microcontroller, the motor drives the movement of the clamp to retrieve the fabric 111 and then tying securely around the user’s affected body part to prevent the flow of poison, thereby limiting its spread to other areas and minimizing further harm to the user.

[0036] Upon blending of the herbs thoroughly, a motorized iris lid 112 integrated at base of the container 108 is actuated by the microcontroller to dispense an appropriate portion of the herbal preparation on the user’s wound. Motorized iris lid 112 typically refers to the iris or aperture mechanism in the camera or optical instruments as it works in a similar manner to that of a human eye. The iris consists several thin and overlapping blades that forms an adjustable opening of the lid 112. Upon actuation of the iris lid 112 by the microcontroller the blades move apart resulting in the widening of mouth portion, allowing the herbs to dispense in an appropriate portion on the user is wound. The microcontroller then directs the pair of robotic arms 110 for spreading the portion on the wound via a spatula 113 integrated with the arms 110 in view of healing the user is wound.

[0037] The microcontroller for supporting the robotic arms 110 and gripper 105 inside the body 101 subsequently activates a motorized dual axis lead screw 114 arranged on ceiling of the body 101. The dual-axis lead screw 114 utilizes dual lead screw 114 to control the movement and positioning of the robotic arms 110 and gripper 105 in dual-axis. The dual-axis lead screw 114 comprises of a pair of lead screw 114 both are positioned perpendicular each other. Each screw 114 have its own dedicated lead screw 114 and corresponding nut assembly. Each lead screw 114 is driven by a motor for movement of the robotic arms 110 and gripper 105 inside the body 101, in an effective manner.

[0038] In case the injury or wound is detected to be life threatening or could lead to death, it will generate an alert and send it to the nearest hospital, via the communication module.

[0039] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device, which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is preferably a dry battery, which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current, which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0040] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the user for accommodation on the seat 103 accesses the body 101 with door 102. Upon activation of the device by the user, the microcontroller generates the command to activate the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 to detect presence of wound on the user’s body. The imaging unit 104 works coordinated with the ultrasonic sensor for monitoring location of the wound on the user’s body. In response to the monitored location of the wound on the user’s body, the microcontroller actuates the motorized gripper 105 with the sensing module 106 to determine kind of the user is wound. In accordance to the determined kind of the user’s wound, the microcontroller evaluates the required number of herbs for healing the user’s wound, and accordingly actuates multiple electronically controlled nozzles 107 to dispense the optimum amount of varying kinds of herbs from the chamber in the container 108.

[0041] In continuation, upon collection of the herbs in the container 108, the microcontroller actuates the motorized stirrer 109 to rotate for mixing the herbs and blender to form the herbal preparation. If the detected wound corresponds to the snakebite, the microcontroller activates the pair of robotic arms 110 to retrieve the fabric 111 and then tying securely around the user’s affected body part to prevent the flow of poison, thereby limiting its spread to other areas and minimizing further harm to the user. Upon blending of the herbs thoroughly, the motorized iris lid 112 is actuated by the microcontroller to dispense the appropriate portion of the herbal preparation on the user’s wound.

[0042] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) An automated wound dressing device, comprising:

i. a body 101 developed to be positioned on a ground surface, wherein said body 101 is arranged with a door 102 that is accessed by a user for entering inside said body 101, followed by accommodation of said user on a seat 103 arranged inside said body 101, characterized in that:

ii. an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed inside said body 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of inside of said body 101, respectively to detect presence of wound on said user’s body, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is integrated inside said body 101 and synced with said imaging unit 104 for monitoring location of said wound on said user’s body;

iii. a motorized gripper 105 installed inside said body 101 and integrated with a sensing module 106 that is actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to determine kind of said user’s wound, in accordance to which said microcontroller evaluates a required number of herbs for healing said user’s wound, wherein a sensing unit is installed on an armrests of said seat for monitoring vital health parameters of said user, in accordance to which severity of said wound is detected;

iv. a multi-sectioned chamber arranged inside said body 101 and integrated with multiple electronically controlled nozzles 107 that are actuated by said microcontroller to dispense an optimum amount of varying kinds of herbs stored in said chamber from said chamber, as per said determined kind and severity of said user’s wound;

v. a container 108 arranged inside said body 101, underneath said chamber for accommodating said dispensed herbs, followed by actuation of a motorized stirrer 109 integrated at base of said container 108 to rotate for mixing said herbs and blender to form a herbal preparation, wherein in case said detected wound corresponds to a snake bite, said microcontroller actuates a pair of robotic arms 110 installed inside said body 101 to tie a knot of a fabric 111 stored inside said body 101 on said user’s body part to prevent flow of poison from said wound to other body parts of said user; and

vi. a motorized iris lid 112 integrated at base of said container 108 that is actuated by said microcontroller to dispense an appropriate portion of said herbal preparation on said user’s wound, followed by actuation of a spatula 113 integrated with said arms 110 for spreading said preparation on said wound in view of healing said user’s wound.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized dual axis lead screw 114 is arranged on ceiling of said body 101 for supporting said robotic arms 110 and gripper 105 inside said body 101.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module 106 includes a color sensor, non-contact moisture sensor and an odor sensor.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing unit includes a Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Sensor, Photoplethysmogram (PPG) Sensor, Infrared Sensor, and Electromyography (EMG) Sensor.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a vertical pole 115 is arranged inside said body and integrated with an infrared sensor for analyzing any tissue damage, signs of infection or blood clot at said wound.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Peltier unit coupled with a thermostat and an ultrasonic wave generator are integrated in said container that are actuated by said microcontroller to mix said ingredients, in case mixing of said ingredients requires heating/cooling or ultrasonic waves.