Liquid-circulating thermal therapy system
US4844072A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jul 4, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 27, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2007/0056
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for circulating hot or cold liquid through a pad placed in thermal contact with a patient for thermal therapy. The system includes a flexible thermal pad with an internal channel for carrying the liquid and a pump assembly for circulating and optionally heating the liquid. The patient-contacting surface of the pad comprises a foam having a cushioned surface to reduce the risk of ischemia and enhance patient comfort. An open-cell foam structure absorbs and retains moisture for applying moist heat. The system is microprocessor controlled and includes a heater to warm the liquid to a selectable temperature for heat therapy. A display selectively indicates set-point or actual liquid temperature in either .degree. F. or .degree. C. as desired. Safety features include three separate over-temperature sensors, a tilt switch and a float switch which de-energize both the heater and the pump when an abnormal temperature is sensed, the unit is tipped or a low liquid level is sensed, respectively. A sealed membrane switch assembly protects the unit from spills and includes a concealed set-point switch to prevent unauthorized tampering. Set-point may be decremented to a "heater off" pos…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.