Description:Brief Description of the Drawings

Generally, the present disclosure relates to medical diagnostic devices. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In the realm of medical diagnostics, the early and accurate detection of bone fractures plays a critical role in ensuring effective treatment and recovery. Traditional methods for diagnosing bone fractures primarily rely on imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans. These methods, while effective, have certain limitations including exposure to radiation, high costs, and the requirement for bulky equipment. As a consequence, there is a growing interest in developing alternative diagnostic methods that are non-invasive, cost-effective, and portable. Among the emerging technologies, vibration analysis presents a promising approach. By applying a specific frequency of vibrations to the bone and analyzing the resulting vibration characteristics, it is possible to detect anomalies indicative of fractures.
Vibration-based techniques for bone fracture detection leverage the principle that different materials and structures exhibit unique vibrational signatures. When a bone is intact, it transmits vibrations in a predictable manner. However, the presence of a crack or fracture alters these vibrational patterns. Early attempts to utilize vibration analysis for bone fracture detection focused on stationary, rigid devices that applied vibrations at a single point on the body. These devices, though innovative, faced challenges related to user comfort, adaptability to different body parts, and the efficiency of vibration transmission through soft tissue.
Further advances led to the development of flexible devices that could better conform to the contours of the body. However, these solutions often lacked effective mechanisms for adjusting the device to fit various body parts snugly and comfortably. Moreover, they did not adequately address the need to minimize the dampening effect of soft tissue, which can significantly interfere with the transmission of vibrations to the bone.
Furthermore, the generation of vibrations and their continuous application to the body raises concerns regarding heat production. Excessive heat can cause discomfort to the user and potentially damage the device or affect its performance. Previous designs have not fully resolved the challenge of dissipating heat effectively during operation.
In light of the above discussion, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the problems associated with conventional systems and techniques for detecting bone fractures using vibration analysis.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device. The device includes an adjustable flexible frame capable of conforming to the contours of the body part with an adjustment mechanism, a vibration generator mounted on the frame to induce targeted frequency vibrations within the bone when in contact with the body part, a sensing unit embedded within the frame to detect changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks, an interface pad made from a damping material to facilitate transmission of vibrations to the bone and minimize dampening by soft tissue, a heat dissipation system incorporated within the frame to manage heat from the vibration generator, a processing unit to process detected vibrational data to determine the presence of bone cracks, and a display interface for presenting analysis results. The device enables the efficient, non-invasive detection of bone fractures, offering a promising alternative to traditional imaging techniques.
The first improvement involves the sensing unit comprising multiple sensors selected from accelerometers and piezoelectric sensors, arrayed to cover various angles around the body part. This configuration enhances the device's ability to accurately detect bone cracks by analyzing vibrations from multiple perspectives, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy.
Further, the device features an adjustment mechanism that includes a ratchet system for fine-tuning the fit around the body part, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Another variation of the adjustment mechanism comprises magnetic closures for easy application and removal, providing user convenience and adaptability to different body sizes and shapes.
Moreover, the vibration generator is an electromechanical solenoid with a variable frequency range between 20 Hz to 2000 Hz, allowing for precise control over the frequency of vibrations applied, which is critical for effectively inducing and detecting changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks.
Additionally, the interface pad is comprised of a viscoelastic polymer material with a specific acoustic impedance matched to human bone, optimizing the transmission of vibrations for improved detection of bone cracks.
Furthermore, the heat dissipation system includes a lining of a phase change material that absorbs heat during operation and releases heat when idle, effectively managing the thermal output of the device to ensure user comfort and device safety.
Another innovative aspect of the device is the incorporation of a sound absorbing insert within the adjustable flexible frame, which absorbs sound generated by the vibration generator, reducing noise for a more comfortable user experience.
Further, the processing unit is configured to detect bone density based on analysis of vibrational data, offering potential for additional diagnostic capabilities beyond the detection of bone cracks.

Field of the Invention

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates the process flow of a vibration-based crack detection device, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic representation of a vibration-based crack detection system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a comparative analysis of the vibrational data collected from bones with and without fractures, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
The term "wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to an apparatus designed for the non-invasive detection of bone fractures through the application and analysis of vibrations. This device is characterized by its wearable nature, allowing it to be directly applied to the body part under examination.
The term "adjustable flexible frame" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a component designed to fit snugly around a body part, adapting to its contours. The frame's adaptability is achieved through the incorporation of an adjustment mechanism, allowing for precise fitting across various body sizes and shapes. The adjustable flexible frame is a foundational element of the wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device, ensuring that the device remains in optimal contact with the body part for effective vibration transmission and sensing.
The term "vibration generator" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to a component mounted on the adjustable flexible frame, responsible for generating vibrations at targeted frequencies. These vibrations are induced within the bone when the device is in operational contact with the body part, facilitating the detection of bone cracks through changes in vibration characteristics. The vibration generator plays a critical role in the device's functionality, providing the necessary stimulus for bone crack detection.
The term "sensing unit" as used throughout the present disclosure denotes a component embedded within the adjustable flexible frame, designed to detect changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks. This unit's sensitivity to vibrational anomalies enables the accurate identification of bone fractures, serving as a key diagnostic component within the device.
The term "interface pad" as used throughout the present disclosure describes a component located between the sensors and the body part. Made from a damping material with an acoustic impedance selected to facilitate the efficient transmission of vibrations to the bone while minimizing dampening by soft tissue, the interface pad ensures that the generated vibrations effectively reach the bone for accurate crack detection.
The term "heat dissipation system" as used throughout the present disclosure pertains to a system incorporated within the adjustable flexible frame, tasked with managing the heat generated by the vibration generator. Comprising a network of microfluidic channels, this system enables the flow of a coolant, effectively dissipating heat and preventing discomfort to the user as well as damage to the device.
The term "processing unit" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a component configured to process the vibrational data detected by the sensing unit. By analyzing these data, the processing unit determines the presence of bone cracks, thereby enabling the diagnostic capability of the device. The processing unit's sophisticated data processing algorithms are essential for translating vibrational characteristics into actionable diagnostic information.
The term "display interface" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to a component of the device designed for presenting the analysis results to the user. This interface provides a user-friendly means of conveying the outcomes of the bone crack detection process, facilitating the interpretation of diagnostic findings.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. Said device (100) comprises an adjustable flexible frame (102) engineered to conform to the contours of a body part, wherein the frame encompasses an adjustment mechanism for customizable fitting. Affixed to said adjustable flexible frame (102) is a vibration generator (104), the purpose of which is to induce targeted frequency vibrations within the bone when said generator (104) is in operational contact with the body part. A sensing unit (106) is embedded within the adjustable flexible frame (102), tasked with the detection of changes in vibration characteristics that are indicative of bone cracks. Adjacent to said sensing unit (106) and in contact with the body part is an interface pad (108), fabricated from a damping material with an acoustic impedance selected to enhance the transmission of vibrations to the bone, while simultaneously minimizing dampening by soft tissue.
Furthermore, a heat dissipation system (110) is incorporated within the adjustable flexible frame (102) to manage the heat emanated from the vibration generator (104). Said heat dissipation system (110) comprises a network of microfluidic channels that facilitate the flow of a coolant. A processing unit (112) is provided within the device (100), its configuration being such that it processes detected vibrational data from the sensing unit (106) to ascertain the presence of bone cracks. Additionally, a display interface (114) is included for the presentation of the analysis results derived from said processing unit (112).
In an embodiment, the sensing unit (106) of the wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100) comprises multiple sensors selected from accelerometers and piezoelectric sensors. These sensors are arrayed strategically to cover various angles around the body part under examination. By employing a multitude of sensors, the device (100) enhances its sensitivity and accuracy in detecting changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks. The varied positioning of the sensors around the body part ensures comprehensive coverage and detection capabilities, allowing for a detailed analysis of the vibrational patterns. This arrangement facilitates the identification of bone cracks by capturing a wide spectrum of vibrational data, which, when processed by the processing unit (112), leads to a more accurate determination of the presence of bone cracks. The use of accelerometers and piezoelectric sensors, each known for their sensitivity to vibrational changes, further bolsters the device's diagnostic precision. This configuration represents a significant improvement over systems with a singular sensor, enabling the device to detect fractures with greater reliability.
In another embodiment, the adjustment mechanism of the wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100) includes a ratchet system. This ratchet system allows for fine-tuning the fit of the adjustable flexible frame (102) around the body part, ensuring a snug and secure application. The incorporation of a ratchet system addresses the need for a customizable fit that can accommodate various body sizes and shapes, enhancing the comfort and effectiveness of the device. By enabling precise adjustments, the ratchet system ensures optimal contact between the interface pad (108) and the skin, which is critical for the efficient transmission of vibrations to the bone. This feature not only improves the user experience by allowing for a tailored fit but also contributes to the device's overall accuracy in detecting bone cracks.
In a further embodiment, the adjustable flexible frame (102) of the device (100) features an adjustment mechanism that comprises magnetic closures. These magnetic closures facilitate easy application and removal of the device, simplifying the user experience. The magnetic closures offer a practical solution to securing the device in place without requiring excessive force or complex manipulation, making the device more accessible, especially for individuals with limited dexterity. This design choice enhances the device's usability and convenience, allowing for quick adjustments and removal, thus improving patient compliance and satisfaction with the diagnostic process.
In another embodiment, the vibration generator (104) is identified as an electromechanical solenoid with a variable frequency range between 20 Hz to 2000 Hz. This wide frequency range allows for the generation of vibrations that can be precisely tailored to the diagnostic requirements, enhancing the device's versatility and effectiveness in detecting bone cracks. The ability to adjust the frequency of vibrations ensures that the device can induce optimal vibrational characteristics for varying bone densities and conditions, thereby increasing the accuracy of crack detection. The electromechanical solenoid represents a key technological component, enabling the device to perform effective vibrational analysis across a broad spectrum of clinical scenarios.
In another embodiment, the interface pad (108) is comprised of a viscoelastic polymer material with a specific acoustic impedance matched to human bone. This material choice optimizes the transmission of vibrations to the bone while minimizing dampening effects caused by soft tissue. The acoustic impedance matching is crucial for ensuring that the vibrations generated by the vibration generator (104) are effectively conducted to the bone, thereby enhancing the device's sensitivity to vibrational changes indicative of bone cracks. The use of a viscoelastic polymer material further contributes to the comfort of the device, providing a soft interface between the sensors and the skin.
In a further embodiment, the heat dissipation system (110) within the device (100) comprises a lining of a phase change material. This material is designed to absorb heat generated by the vibration generator (104) during operation and to release this heat when the device is idle. The use of phase change material in the heat dissipation system addresses the challenge of managing the thermal output of the device, ensuring user comfort and preventing overheating. This innovative approach to heat management enhances the safety and usability of the device, allowing for longer periods of use without discomfort or risk to the user.
In another embodiment, the adjustable flexible frame (102) includes a sound absorbing insert. This insert is designed to absorb sound generated by the vibration generator (104), reducing noise levels during the device's operation. The inclusion of a sound absorbing insert addresses concerns related to the acoustic impact of the device, ensuring a more comfortable and less intrusive diagnostic experience. By minimizing noise, the device becomes more user-friendly, especially in quiet clinical environments or during at-home use, thereby improving the overall acceptability of the technology.
In a further embodiment, the processing unit (112) is configured to detect bone density based on the analysis of vibrational data collected by the sensing unit (106). This capability extends the device's diagnostic utility beyond the detection of bone cracks to include the assessment of bone health. By analyzing vibrational characteristics in relation to bone density, the device offers a non-invasive means of evaluating bone quality, which can be invaluable in diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis. This additional functionality highlights the device's versatility and potential for comprehensive bone health assessment, making it a valuable tool in preventive medicine and early intervention strategies.
The vibration-based crack detection device of present disclosure resolves multiple challenges inherent to traditional fracture detection methods such as X-rays and MRI scans, by providing non-invasiveness, portability, cost-effectiveness, and real-time feedback capabilities. Traditional diagnostic techniques, while effective, often fail to identify early-stage or minor fractures and require the patient to undergo invasive and expensive procedures. The vibration-based device, however, utilizes low-frequency vibrations to detect subtle changes in bone integrity that may not be visible on standard scans. Further, device do not use radiation, thereby offering a safer and more comfortable diagnostic alternative. Additionally, portability allows for use in various medical settings, from remote clinics to emergency rooms, facilitating timely and location-independent diagnostics.
The vibration-based crack detection device of present disclosure presents numerous advantages over traditional bone fracture detection methods like eliminating the need for radiation exposure or invasive procedures, thus offering a safer and more comfortable experience for patients. Moreover, vibration-based crack detection device can detect early-stage or minor fractures that conventional methods might miss, facilitating earlier treatment interventions that could prevent severe complications or chronic conditions. Economically, the vibration-based device is cost-effective as it does not require expensive equipment or extensive training, making it a financially viable option for many healthcare providers. Additionally, vibration-based crack detection device ease of use and intuitive operation allow healthcare personnel like nurses and paramedics to utilize it effectively with minimal training. Lastly, the device ensures objective measurements of bone integrity through vibrational analysis, minimizing the likelihood of subjective interpretation and human error, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reliability.
In an embodiment, the device comprises vibration generator (e.g., piezoelectric transducer) that generate low frequency vibration, which then propagate through the bone. Variations in bone density due to fractures alter the vibration characteristics, such as amplitude and frequency. These changes are detected and analyzed by sensors within the device, with data processed using advanced signal techniques to highlight anomalies indicative of fractures. The processed information is compared against established patterns of normal and abnormal bone responses, enabling precise localization and identification of potential fractures. This technical approach not only supports immediate diagnostic decisions but also significantly reduces the healthcare costs and infrastructure typically required for fracture diagnosis and management.
FIG. 2 illustrates the process flow of a vibration-based crack detection device, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The initial stage is data acquisition, where vibrations are introduced into the bone. This may be achieved using a device that generates a controlled amount of vibrational energy, which is then transmitted through the bone structure. The subsequent phase is the collection of low-frequency data. The device records how these vibrations propagate through the bone, capturing the vibrational patterns that could indicate inconsistencies in the bone's integrity due to cracks or fractures. During the data analysis stage, the recorded vibrational data is examined using advanced computational methods. Deviations from normal vibrational patterns are indicative of potential bone damage, and these are identified through this analysis. The data is translated into visual formats that can easily be interpreted by medical professionals.
FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic representation of a vibration-based crack detection system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The system comprises an impact hammer, which likely serves as the source of vibrational energy, and an accelerometer, which is used to measure the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations through the bone. The diagram shows bones with and without fractures, and how the impact hammer and accelerometer are positioned relative to them. The accelerometer's data is fed into a computer, which displays a graphical representation of the vibrational characteristics of the bone. This visual representation on the computer screen assists healthcare professionals in determining the presence and severity of bone fractures. The precise placement of the accelerometer and the impact hammer suggests that the system is designed to capture the most telling vibrational responses from the bone, which are critical for accurate diagnosis.
FIG. 4 illustrates a comparative analysis of the vibrational data collected from bones with and without fractures, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In the case of a bone without a fracture, the vibrational patterns are consistent and uniform, indicating structural integrity. On the other hand, the graphs for a bone with a crack show a different vibrational signature, with noticeable anomalies in the wave patterns. These discrepancies in the vibration data are key indicators of structural flaws within the bone, such as cracks or fractures. The graphical representation allows for an immediate visual comparison between normal and affected bones, providing healthcare practitioners with a tool for quick and reliable diagnosis. The graphs elucidate the differences in vibration characteristics due to the presence of a crack, which is a crucial aspect of the detection process.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We Claims

A wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100), the device (100) comprising:
an adjustable flexible frame (102) capable of conforming to the contours of the body part, wherein the frame comprising an adjustment mechanism;
a vibration generator (104) mounted on the flexible frame (100), the generator induces a targeted frequency vibrations within the bone when in operational contact with the body part;
a sensing unit (106) embedded within the flexible frame (100), the sensing unit (106) detects changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks;
an interface pad (108) to be located between the sensors and the body part, made from a damping material with an acoustic impedance selected to facilitate transmission of vibrations to the bone and minimize dampening by soft tissue;
a heat dissipation system (110) incorporated within the flexible frame to manage heat generated by the vibration generator (104), wherein a heat dissipation system (110) comprising network of microfluidic channels to enable flow of a coolant;
a processing unit (112) configured to process detected vibrational data from sensing unit (106) to determine presence of bone crack; and
a display interface (114) for presenting the analysis results.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the sensing unit (106) comprises multiple sensors selected from accelerometers and piezoelectric sensors, wherein the sensors are arrayed to cover various angles around the body part.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism includes a ratchet system for fine-tuning the fit around the body part.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises magnetic closures for easy application and removal.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the vibration generator (104) is an electromechanical solenoid with a variable frequency range between 20 Hz to 2000 Hz.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the interface pad (108) is comprised of a viscoelastic polymer material with a specific acoustic impedance matched to human bone.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation system (110) comprises a lining of a phase change material that absorbs heat when the device (100) operates and releases heat when the device (100) is idle.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustable flexible frame (102) comprises a sound absorbing insert that absorbs sound generated by vibration generator (104).
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the processing unit (112) configured to detect a bone density based on analysis of vibrational data.

WEARABLE DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF BONE CRACKS USING VIBRATION ANALYSIS

Disclosed is a wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device comprising: an adjustable flexible frame capable of conforming to the contours of the body part, the frame including an adjustment mechanism; a vibration generator mounted on the flexible frame, which induces targeted frequency vibrations within the bone when in operational contact with the body part; a sensing unit embedded within the flexible frame, which detects changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks; an interface pad to be located between the sensors and the body part, made from a damping material with an acoustic impedance selected to facilitate transmission of vibrations to the bone and minimize dampening by soft tissue; a heat dissipation system incorporated within the flexible frame to manage heat generated by the vibration generator, the heat dissipation system including a network of microfluidic channels to enable flow of a coolant; a processing unit configured to process detected vibrational data from the sensing unit to determine the presence of bone crack; and a display interface for presenting the analysis results.

, Claims:I/We Claims

A wearable vibration-based bone crack detection device (100), the device (100) comprising:
an adjustable flexible frame (102) capable of conforming to the contours of the body part, wherein the frame comprising an adjustment mechanism;
a vibration generator (104) mounted on the flexible frame (100), the generator induces a targeted frequency vibrations within the bone when in operational contact with the body part;
a sensing unit (106) embedded within the flexible frame (100), the sensing unit (106) detects changes in vibration characteristics indicative of bone cracks;
an interface pad (108) to be located between the sensors and the body part, made from a damping material with an acoustic impedance selected to facilitate transmission of vibrations to the bone and minimize dampening by soft tissue;
a heat dissipation system (110) incorporated within the flexible frame to manage heat generated by the vibration generator (104), wherein a heat dissipation system (110) comprising network of microfluidic channels to enable flow of a coolant;
a processing unit (112) configured to process detected vibrational data from sensing unit (106) to determine presence of bone crack; and
a display interface (114) for presenting the analysis results.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the sensing unit (106) comprises multiple sensors selected from accelerometers and piezoelectric sensors, wherein the sensors are arrayed to cover various angles around the body part.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism includes a ratchet system for fine-tuning the fit around the body part.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises magnetic closures for easy application and removal.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the vibration generator (104) is an electromechanical solenoid with a variable frequency range between 20 Hz to 2000 Hz.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the interface pad (108) is comprised of a viscoelastic polymer material with a specific acoustic impedance matched to human bone.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the heat dissipation system (110) comprises a lining of a phase change material that absorbs heat when the device (100) operates and releases heat when the device (100) is idle.
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the adjustable flexible frame (102) comprises a sound absorbing insert that absorbs sound generated by vibration generator (104).
The device (100) of claim 1, wherein the processing unit (112) configured to detect a bone density based on analysis of vibrational data.

WEARABLE DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF BONE CRACKS USING VIBRATION ANALYSIS