WO2025250547A1 - System and method for gas infusion for hydrotherapy, pool, spa systems for health and wellness - Google Patents

Abstract

A hydrotherapy system administers NormaBaric oxygen therapy (NormaBot) with precision and efficacy. The system enables transdermal absorption of pure oxygen in an aqueous environment, offering therapeutic benefits for various medical conditions characterized by inadequate tissue oxygenation and enhancing recovery and performance in athletes. The system provides transdermal oxygen therapy, offering unparalleled control, safety, and efficacy for healing, recovery, and wellness applications.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GAS INFUSION FOR HYDROTHERAPY, POOL, SPA SYSTEMS FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/653098, filed May 29, 2024.

BACKGROUND

Field

[0002] The present disclosure is directed to hydrotherapy, pool and/or spa systems for health and wellness, and more particularly to a gas infusion system and method for infusing high concentrations of dissolved oxygen or ozone into water or other aqueous streams into a tub, spa, pool or body of water used for submersion by a human, animal or living organism to deliver a gas such as oxygen to tissue beneath the skin, increase blood circulation, and/or to create vasodilation, for the purpose of medical, health or wellness treatments and therapies. Description of the Related Art

[0003] Wounds on a limb or extremity of a mammal or other living creature can take a long time to heal, even with existing technologies. Also, strenuous activities, such as activities performed by athletes, can result in muscle pain that requires a recovery period.

SUMMARY

[0004] There is a need for a system that can facilitate (e.g., speed up) treatment of wound and facilitate (e.g., speed up) recovery, for example in athletes, and can enhance performance.

[0005] In accordance with one aspect of the disclosure, a NormaBaric oxygen therapy (NormaBot) system is provided, which is a novel therapeutic approach involving the transdermal absorption of pure oxygen in an aqueous solution or environment. This therapy has shown the ability to address various medical conditions characterized by insufficient tissue oxygenation, as well as in enhancing recovery and performance in athletes. The NormaBaric Oxygen Therapy Tub represents a significant advancement in the delivery of NormaBot, offering precise control over pressure, oxygen concentration, and temperature to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a hydrotherapy, pool and/or spa systems for health and wellness, including: a vessel or tub having a chamber configured to hold a liquid and into which at least a portion of a human or animal body can be submerged; and a gas infusion system, including: a first conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a second conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a gas infusion module in fluid communication with and downstream of the first conduit and in fluid communication with and upstream of the second conduit; a gas connector coupled to the gas infusion module and via which a gas is delivered from a gas source into one or more microporous hollow fibers in the gas in fusion module; and a pump operable to pump the liquid from the chamber through the first conduit, the gas infusion module and the second conduit and to return the liquid to the chamber, wherein the liquid from the first conduit is infused with the gas via the gas infusion module, the gas infused liquid directed to the chamber via the second conduit.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a hydrotherapy method for health and wellness, including: pumping a flow of water from a chamber of a vessel or tub via a first conduit through a gas infusion module; flowing a gas from a gas source into the gas infusion module to infuse the flow of water with the gas; and flowing the gas infused water flow to the chamber of the vessel of tub via a second conduit to expose tissue of a human or animal body at least partially submerged in the chamber to the gas beneath a skin of the human or animal body to increase blood circulation and/or create vasodilation for improved health and wellness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure l is a schematic front view of a tub with a gas infusion system.

[0009] Figure 1A is an end view of a pipe connector with a gas infusion module.

[0010] Figure IB is a schematic view of the pipe connector of FIG. 1A connected to two pipes.

[0011] Figure 1C is a partial side view of a gas infusion module.

[0012] Figure ID is a top perspective view of the gas infusion module of FIG. 1C.

[0013] Figure IE is a bottom perspective view of the gas infusion module of FIG. [0014] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a tub with a gas infusion system.

[0015] Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG.

2.

[0016] Figure 4 is a schematic top view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG. 2.

[0017] Figure 5 is a schematic right end view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG. 2.

[0018] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a tub with a gas infusion system.

[0019] Figure 7 is a schematic front view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG.

6.

[0020] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view of a tub with a gas infusion system.

[0021] Figure 9 is a schematic front view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG.

8.

[0022] Figure 10 is a schematic top view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG. 8.

[0023] Figure 11 is a schematic right end view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG. 8.

[0024] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of a tub with a gas infusion system.

[0025] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of the tub and gas infusion system of FIG. 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Figure 1 shows a hydrotherapy device (e.g., spa or hot tub, The NormaBaric Oxygen Therapy Tub) operable to administer oxygen effectively in clinical, athletic or recreation settings. The hydrotherapy device can be or include a vessel or tub 1 that incorporates several innovative features including Teflon or Polyethylene, or similar microporous hollow fiber gas infusion module to ensure precise control over therapy parameters while prioritizing patient or user safety and comfort. The tub 1 can have a chamber that holds a volume of water into which at least a portion of a human or animal body (e.g., an entire human body, an entire animal body, an extremity of the human or animal body) can be submerged. The tub 1 can include a gas infusion system 15. The gas infusion system 15 includes an oxygen source or oxygen delivery system 2 (e.g., oxygen concentrator) that delivers oxygen through a conduit 2A and check valve 2B to a gas infusion module 3. In other examples, the gas infusion system 15 can deliver another gas (other than oxygen, such as ozone) or a combination of gases (e.g., including or not including oxygen) into the water recirculated through the chamber of the tub or vessel 1. The gas infusion module 3 can be part of or inserted inside a pipe connector or pipe saddle 3A that is in line with an inlet 6 (e.g., inlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe) and in fluid communication with an outlet 7 (e.g., outlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe). A pump 5 can drive water flow into the inlet 6 (e.g., inlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe) from the chamber, through the gas infusion module 3 in the pipe connector 3A, into the outlet 7 (e.g., outlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe), and out of the outlet 7 (e g., outlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe) and into the chamber. In this manner, the gas infusion system 15 delivers highly oxygenated water into the chamber of the tub or vessel 1 via the outlet 7 (e.g., outlet conduit, such as tube, hose or pipe) and water from the chamber is recirculated through the gas infusion system 15. In one example, the gas infusion system 15 can be incorporated into (e.g., integral with) the tub or vessel 1. Further details of the pipe connector or pipe saddle 3 A and gas infusion module 3 can be found in U.S. Application No. 63/643874, filed May 7, 2024 (Attorney Docket no. PROST.052PR), titled GAS INFUSION MODULE SYSTEMS, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and should be considered a part of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 1 A shows a pipe connector 3 A (or pipe saddle) that can connect (e.g., be interposed) between two pipes (e.g., pipes 6, 7, as shown in FIG. IB), for example in a threaded manner, a press-fit manner, or via other suitable mechanisms (e.g., clamps, welds, adhesive). The pipe connector 3 A can have a tube portion 3B with a circular opening 12 or passage, the tube portion 3B disposed in line with the two pipes 6, 7. In one example, the opening 12 can have a 2 inch diameter. In other examples, the opening 12 can have other suitable diameters. The pipe connector 3A can include a gas infusion module 3 that extends into the opening 12 (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to a central axis of the opening 12). In one example, the gas infusion module 3 extends partway (e.g. midway, 1/4 of the way, 1/3 of the way, 2/3 of the way, 3/4 of the way) into the opening 12. In another example, the gas infusion module 3 extends entirely across the opening 12 (e.g., across a diameter of the opening 12). The gas infusion module 3 has a plurality of openings 23 (or apertures) in a housing 16 via which a liquid flowing through the pipe connector 3 A (e.g., flowing through the pipes 6, 7 and the connector 3A) is infused with a gas (e.g., oxygen, other gas). The openings 23 can, in one example, be in an array disposed circumferentially about the housing 16 (e.g., about a central axis of the housing 16). In one example, the openings 23 can have a diameter of about 5/32 inches (4 mm); however, the openings 23 can have other sizes (e.g., 8 mm, 6 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 0.5 mm). In one example, the size of the openings 23 can provide a desired pressure drop across the gas infusion module 3). The pipe connector 3 A can have a gas connector 21 via which the pipe connector 3A can connect with a gas source 2 (e.g., oxygen source) to supply the gas infusion module 3 with said gas (e.g., oxygen). Further details on the structure of the gas in fusion module 3 is described below.

[0028] Figures 1C-1E show features of the gas infusion module 3. The gas infusion module 3 includes a plurality of fibers 17 with ends (proximal ends) attached to (e.g., embedded in) a cap 18 (e.g., an epoxy cap) so that the fibers 17 extend through the cap 18 (e.g., openings of the fibers 17 are defined on a surface of the cap 18). The gas infusion module 3 extends transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to a central axis of the tube portion 3B. The cap 18 is recessed relative to one end 3C (e.g., a proximal end) in the housing 16 to define a chamber 19 in the housing 16 adjacent the cap 18. The fibers 17 are arranged about (e.g., bundled about) a tube 20 that extends within the housing 16. As shown in FIG. IE, the opposite ends of the fibers 17 at the opposite end 3D (e.g., a distal end) of the housing 16 are free (e.g., not embedded in a cap). Each of the fibers 17 can be a microporous hydrophobic hollow fiber with a plurality of micropores 13 having a pore size of between about 0.01 pm and 5 pm, inclusive (e.g., 0.01 pm, 0.1 pm, 0.5 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm), which advantageously facilitates bubbleless gas transfer into the liquid (e.g., to supersaturate the liquid with the gas), making the gas infusion process more efficient and inhibiting or preventing loss of gas via bubbles. For illustrative purposes, one pore 13 is identified in FIG. 1C, but one of skill in the art will recognize that each fiber 17 has a multitude of pores 13 along its length. Each fiber 17 can in some examples have an outer diameter of about 0.54 mm and inner diameter of about 0.35 mm (e.g., wall thickness of 190 mm). In another example, each fiber 17 can have an outer diameter of about 0.54 mm and inner diameter of about 0.45 mm (e.g., wall thickness of about 0.095 mm). In another example, the fibers 17 can have an outer diameter of about 0.35 mm and an inner diameter of about 0.28 mm (e.g., wall thickness of 0.070 mm). The fibers 17 can be made from polyethylene or polypropylene, both of which are water repellent. In one example, the fibers 17 have a porosity of between 50% and 90%, such as 75%. In one example, the gas infusion module has a packing factor of between about 20% and about 50%, such as about 38% (e.g., 38% of the space in the housing 16 is taken up by the fibers 17). The number of fibers 17 in the housing 16 can be between about 700 and about 1500, such as about 1100. The fibers 17 can have a length of between about 4 inches and about 8 inches, such as 5 inches.

[0029] In operation, following attachment or coupling of the connector 3A to the pipes 6, 7, a liquid flow (e.g., water) can be flowed through the pipes 6, 7 and pipe connector 3 A so that it passes through the openings 23 in the housing 16 of the gas infusion module 3. A gas (e.g., oxygen) is supplied via the gas connector 21 and passes into the chamber 19 in the housing 16 and therefrom through the openings of each of the fibers 17 in the cap 18. The gas flows through each of the fibers 17 and then passes out of the fibers 17 through the pores 13 and into the flowing liquid to infuse said flowing liquid with the gas. Advantageously, the connector 3 A provides in-line gas infusion of a liquid flowing along pipes (such as pipes 6, 7).

[0030] Figures 2-7 show a tub 1 and gas infusions system 15’. The gas infusion system 15’ is similar to the gas infusion system 15. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various components of the system 15’ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the system 15 in FIG. 1. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the system 15 and how it’s operated and controlled in FIG. 1 are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the system 15’ in FIGS. 2-7, except as described below.

[0031] The system 15’ differs from the system 15 in that it is separate from the tub or vessel 1 (not integrated into the tub or vessel 1). The system 15’ can be connectable to the tub or vessel 1 via outlet fluid connection 6 from the tub 1 that connects to outlet conduit 6A (e.g., tube, hose or pipe), for example via a valve, and via an inlet fluid connection 7 to the tub 1 that connects to inlet conduit 7A (e.g., tube, hose or pipe), respectively. Liquid from the tub or vessel 1 flows out of the outlet fluid connection 6 and via the outlet conduit 6A to pump 5 (e.g. recirculation pump), which pumps the liquid along conduit 11 to the inlet of the gas infusion module 3. The gas (e.g., oxygen, ozone) concentrator 2 and gas booster 4 (e.g., oxygen booster) delivers gas into the gas infusion module 3 to infuse the liquid with gas (e.g., oxygen, ozone, etc.). In one example, gas flows from the gas concentrator 2 to the gas booster 4 before being delivered to the gas infusion module 3. The gas infused liquid exits the gas infusion module 3 and flows to the tube or vessel 1 via the inlet conduit 7A and inlet fluid connection 7. The gas infusion module 3 can have a vent v via which gas can be vented (e.g., gas displaced from the liquid by the gas injected from the gas concentrator 2 and gas booster 4 (e.g., aviation grade gas booster). As shown in FIGS. 2-7, the gas concentrator 2, gas booster 4, pump 5, gas infusion module 3 and conduit 11 can be mounted on a skid or frame 27 separate from the tub or vessel 1. The tub or vessel 1 can optionally be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), and can optionally be a sports whirlpool spa tank. The gas infusion module 3 can be detachable and/or replaceable, advantageously making the system 15’ modular and easy to service or maintain. The gas infusion module 3 can be a hollow fiber membrane module (similar to that in FIGS. 1A-1E but its housing excluding the openings 23). In one example, the gas infusion module 3 can be 4 inches in diameter. However, the gas infusion module can have other suitable diameters. In other examples, the system 15’ can include more than one gas infusion modules 3 (e.g., arranged in series, in parallel, or in series and in parallel). In one example, the fibers can be made of Teflon®. The liquid can be flowed into the housing of the gas in fusion module 3 via an inlet. The gas flows from the gas source or concentrator 2 into the housing of the gas infusion module 3 and through the microporous hollow fibers in the housing. The gas exits the fibers via their micropores into the liquid flowing about and between the fibers within the housing of the gas infusion module 3 to infuse the liquid with the gas (e.g., saturate the liquid with the gas, in a bubbleless manner). The gas infused liquid exits the housing of the gas infusion module via an outlet. Further details on such gas infusion modules can be found in U.S. provisional application Nos. 63/648291 filed 5/16/2024 and 63/651838 filed 5/24/2024, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and should be considered a part of this disclosure.

[0032] Figures 8-13 show a tub 1 and gas infusions system 15”. The gas infusion system 15” is similar to the gas infusion system 15’. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various components of the system 15” are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the system 15’ in FIGS. 2-7. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the system 15’ and how it’s operated and controlled in FIGS. 2-7 are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the system 15” in FIGS. 8-13, except as described below.

[0033] The system 15” differs from the system 15’ in that it further includes an ultraviolet (UV) sterilization unit 8 through which the gas infused liquid passes from the gas infusion module 3. The UV sterilization unit 8 can have one or more UV lights that apply UV radiation to the gas infused liquid, after which the sterilized gas infused liquid exits the UV sterilization unit 8 and flows to the tube or vessel 1 via the inlet conduit 7A and inlet fluid connection 7. The system 15” further differs from the system 15’ in that it further includes a filter 9 disposed between the outlet fluid connection 6 and the pump 5 (e.g., is disposed upstream of the pump 5). Liquid from the tub or vessel 1 flows out of the outlet fluid connection 6 and via the outlet conduit 6A to filter 9, passes through the filter 9 and continues to the pump 5 (e g. recirculation pump), which pumps the liquid along conduit 11 to the inlet of the gas infusion module 3. As shown in FIGS. 8-13, the gas concentrator 2, gas booster 4, filter 8, pump 5, gas infusion module 3, UV filtration unit 8 and conduit 11 can be mounted on a skid or frame 27 separate from the tub or vessel 1. The tub or vessel 1 can optionally be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel), and can optionally be a sports whirlpool spa tank. The gas infusion module 3 can be detachable and/or replaceable, advantageously making the system 15” modular and easy to service or maintain. The gas infusion module 3 can be a hollow fiber membrane module (similar to that in FIGS. 1 A-1E but its housing excluding the openings 23). In one example, the gas infusion module 3 can be 4 inches in diameter. However, the gas infusion module can have other suitable diameters. In other examples, the system 15” can include more than one gas infusion modules 3 (e.g., arranged in series, in parallel, or in series and in parallel). In one example, the fibers can be made of Teflon®. The liquid can be flowed into the housing of the gas in fusion module 3 via an inlet. The gas flows from the gas source or concentrator 2 into the housing of the gas infusion module 3 and through the microporous hollow fibers in the housing. The gas exits the fibers via their micropores into the liquid flowing about and between the fibers within the housing of the gas infusion module 3 to infuse the liquid with the gas (e.g., saturate the liquid with the gas, in a bubbleless manner). The gas infused liquid exits the housing of the gas infusion module via an outlet. Further details on such gas infusion modules can be found in U.S. provisional application Nos. 63/648291 filed 5/16/2024 and 63/651838 filed 5/24/2024, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and should be considered a part of this disclosure.

[0034] Embodiments disclosed herein address the above stated needs by providing a method and apparatus to facilitate oxygen absorption in the tissue of the body or an extremity of a mammal or other living creature by immersing the living being in an oxygen infused liquid in the tub or vessel 1.

[0035] In one, embodiment, a method of dissolving supersaturated oxygen via one or more Teflon® or Polyethylene, or similar microporous hollow fiber gas infusion modules for administering oxygen to a body area includes: providing a recirculating aqueous solution having a dissolved oxygen level of 18 mg/L or greater; containing the aqueous solution in a tub, spa, pool or receptacle suitable for fully submerging or at least partially submerging a portion of a body or body part; applying the aqueous solution to the body part for a period of time allowing for oxygen transfer between the aqueous solution and at least some of the tissue of the body part (e.g., a sufficient period of time to allow oxygen transfer from the aqueous solution to the tissue of the body part), wherein the transcutaneous partial pressure of oxygen within a portion of the body part is elevated; and passing the aqueous solution through a gas infusion module 3 and (optionally) a UV Disinfection light 8, and in some embodiments a filter 9, and then recirculated back into the treatment zone for continued delivery of oxygen to the targeted area of treatment.

[0036] In another example, an apparatus for wound treatment includes: a vessel (e.g., tub 1) shaped to accommodate a limb or extremity of a mammal or other living creature, the vessel having sufficient volume to hold at least enough of an aqueous solution in addition to the limb or extremity; and an aqueous solution having a dissolved oxygen level of 18 mg/L or greater.

[0037] Other aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following features: Gas Infusion system (e.g., system 15 in FIG. 1) containing Teflon or Polyethylene, or similar microporous hollow fiber gas infusion module creating an aqueous solution with a dissolved oxygen content of at least 35mg/L. The oxygen is absorbed into the body part at a rate of 0.7 umole/cm²/rmn or greater. The aqueous solution has an oxygen content of at least 45mg/L and contact is maintained between the aqueous solution and the body part for at least 20 minutes. The aqueous solution is an oxygen infused NaCl solution. The vessel (e.g., tub 1) further comprises an intake (e.g., inlet pipe, tube or conduit) and an outtake (e.g., outlet pipe, tube or conduit) for circulating the aqueous solution about the vessel (e.g., tub 1). The vessel can be a tub, spa system or pool of any size to hold 1.0 or more liters of an aqueous solution having a dissolved oxygen level of 30mg/L or more.

[0038] Aspects, embodiments and implementations provide the advantage of being able to transport Oxygen to a wound site or dermis independently of the vascular system, thereby benefiting the healing process.

[0039] Advantageous features of the system (e.g., system 15, 15’, 15” including the tub or vessel 1) can optionally include an airtight chamber design constructed from medical-grade materials to maintain desired pressure levels, a sophisticated pressure regulation system for dynamic adjustment of internal pressure, and/or a precision oxygen delivery mechanism utilizing advanced gas diffusion technology. Temperature regulation mechanisms can ensure optimal water temperature for therapy, while integrated safety features can mitigate risks associated with NormaBaric therapy. An intuitive user interface and control panel can allow for real-time monitoring and customization of therapy settings, enhancing treatment precision and patient comfort. The modular design facilitates maintenance and component replacement, ensuring uninterrupted therapy delivery. The system provides a significant advancement in transdermal oxygen therapy, offering unparalleled control, safety, and efficacy for healing, recovery, and wellness applications.

Advantageous Features:

1. Oxygen Pressure Regulation System: A sophisticated pressure regulation system is optionally integrated into Gas Infusion Modules for the tub 1, allowing for precise control over Oxygen levels dissolved into the aqueous environment. Pressure can be adjusted to meet the requirements of specific medical conditions or athletic protocols, optimizing therapeutic efficacy.

2. Oxygen Delivery Mechanism: The system is equipped with a precision oxygen delivery system 2 capable of delivering pure oxygen into the aqueous solution at controlled concentrations. This system utilizes advanced gas infusion technology to ensure uniform oxygen dispersion throughout the solution, facilitating efficient transdermal absorption. In one example, the oxygen delivery system 2 is integral with the tub or vessel 1. In another example, the oxygen delivery system 2 is separate from the tub or vessel 1 (e.g., an oxygen tank) and removably coupled to the conduit via a mechanical coupling.

3. Temperature Control Mechanisms: Temperature regulation mechanisms, including heating elements and circulation systems, can optionally be incorporated into the system to maintain optimal water temperature for therapy. Temperature settings can be optionally customized to accommodate patient preferences and therapeutic requirements.

4. Modular Design: The NormaBot can optionally be a modular design that allows for easy maintenance, servicing, and component replacement. Modular components can be accessed and replaced individually, minimizing downtime and reducing overall maintenance costs.

Advantages:

1. Optimized Therapy Delivery: The NormaBaric Oxygen Therapy Tub (e.g., tub 1) in extensive tests demonstrated the ability to deliver oxygen into the dermis, and deeper (including the bloodstream) within one-minute of exposing the skin to the highly oxygenated solution via transcutaneous or transdermal oxygen transfer.

2. Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy: The system was tested on over 1,200 individuals in a clinical testing and demonstrated the ability to increase partial pressure of oxygen (POS) in skin by delivering pure oxygen directly to the skin and underlying tissues, the tub or vessel 1 maximizes oxygen absorption and tissue oxygenation, promoting accelerated healing, recovery, and performance enhancement.

3. Versatility and Accessibility: The tub's versatility allows it to be utilized in a variety of clinical and athletic settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports facilities, and home environments including swimming pools. Its user-friendly design makes NormaBaric therapy accessible to a wide range of patients and athletes.

Additional Embodiments

[0040] In examples of the present disclosure, a hydrotherapy, pool and/or spa systems for health and wellness and method of operation may be in accordance with any of the following clauses:

[0041] Clause 1. A hydrotherapy, pool and/or spa systems for health and wellness, comprising: a vessel or tub having a chamber configured to hold a liquid and into which at

-l i least a portion of a human or animal body can be submerged; and a gas infusion system, comprising: a first conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a second conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a gas infusion module in fluid communication with and downstream of the first conduit and in fluid communication with and upstream of the second conduit; a gas connector coupled to the gas infusion module and via which a gas is delivered from a gas source into one or more microporous hollow fibers in the gas in fusion module; and a pump operable to pump the liquid from the chamber through the first conduit, the gas infusion module and the second conduit and to return the liquid to the chamber, wherein the liquid from the first conduit is infused with the gas via the gas infusion module, the gas infused liquid directed to the chamber via the second conduit.

[0042] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, further comprising a connector interposed between and in fluid communication with the first conduit and the second conduit, the connector comprising the gas infusion module, the liquid configured to pass from the first conduit to the second conduit through the connector.

[0043] Clause 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the gas infusion module extends along an axis transverse to the axis of the connector.

[0044] Clause 4. The system of any preceding clause, further comprising the gas source.

[0045] Clause 5. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the gas infusion system is incorporated into the vessel or tub .

[0046] Clause 6. The system of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the gas source, the pump and the gas infusion module are mounted on a skid or frame.

[0047] Clause 7. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6, further comprising a gas booster coupled to the gas source.

[0048] Clause 8. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6-7, wherein the pump pumps the liquid along a conduit to an inlet of the gas infusion module.

[0049] Clause 9. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6-8, wherein the gas infusion module comprises a vent via which gas is vented.

[0050] Clause 10. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6-9, further comprising an ultraviolet (UV) sterilization unit in fluid communication with and downstream of the gas infusion module, the UV sterilization unit operable to sterilize the gas infused liquid it receives from the gas infusion module.

[0051] Clause 11. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6-10, further comprising a fdter disposed between the first conduit and the pump.

[0052] Clause 12. The system of any of clauses 1-4 and 6-11, wherein the gas infusion system is spaced from the vessel or tub.

[0053] Clause 13. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the gas is oxygen or ozone.

[0054] Clause 14. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the gas is oxygen and wherein the gas infused liquid returned to the chamber delivers oxygen to tissue of the human or animal body beneath a skin of the human or animal body to increase blood circulation and/or create vasodilation for improved health and wellness.

[0055] Clause 15. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the gas infusion module comprises a plurality of microporous hollow fibers via which the gas is delivered for mixing with and infusing the liquid with the gas.

[0056] Clause 16. A hydrotherapy method for health and wellness, comprising: pumping a flow of water from a chamber of a vessel or tub via a first conduit through a gas infusion module; flowing a gas from a gas source into the gas infusion module to infuse the flow of water with the gas; and flowing the gas infused water flow to the chamber of the vessel of tub via a second conduit to expose tissue of a human or animal body at least partially submerged in the chamber to the gas beneath a skin of the human or animal body to increase blood circulation and/or create vasodilation for improved health and wellness.

[0057] Clause 17. The method of clause 16, further comprising sterilizing the gas infused water flow with ultraviolet light before flowing the gas infused water flow into the chamber of the vessel or tub.

[0058] Clause 18. The method of clauses 16 or 17, further comprising filtering the flow of water between the first conduit and the pump.

[0059] Clause 19. The method of any of clauses 16-18, wherein the gas infused water flow has a dissolved oxygen level of at least 18 mg/L.

[0060] Clause 20. The method of any of clauses 16-19, wherein the gas infused water flow has a dissolved oxygen level of 45 mg/L. [0061] While certain embodiments of the inventions have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the systems and methods described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present inventions is defined only by reference to the appended claims.

[0062] Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0063] Furthermore, certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0064] Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shown in the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0065] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0066] Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0067] Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0068] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms “generally parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15 degrees.

[0069] The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments in this section or elsewhere in this specification, and may be defined by claims as presented in this section or elsewhere in this specification or as presented in the future. The language of the claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.

[0070] Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, to which various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, the devices described herein need not feature all of the objects, advantages, features and aspects discussed above. Thus, for example, those of skill in the art will recognize that the invention can be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications and methods of use, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of these specific features and aspects of embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the discussed devices.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A hydrotherapy, pool and/or spa systems for health and wellness, comprising: a vessel or tub having a chamber configured to hold a liquid and into which at least a portion of a human or animal body can be submerged; and a gas infusion system, comprising: a first conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a second conduit in fluid communication with the chamber; a gas infusion module in fluid communication with and downstream of the first conduit and in fluid communication with and upstream of the second conduit; a gas connector coupled to the gas infusion module and via which a gas is delivered from a gas source into one or more microporous hollow fibers in the gas in fusion module; and a pump operable to pump the liquid from the chamber through the first conduit, the gas infusion module and the second conduit and to return the liquid to the chamber, wherein the liquid from the first conduit is infused with the gas via the gas infusion module, the gas infused liquid directed to the chamber via the second conduit.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a connector interposed between and in fluid communication with the first conduit and the second conduit, the connector comprising the gas infusion module, the liquid configured to pass from the first conduit to the second conduit through the connector.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the gas infusion module extends along an axis transverse to the axis of the connector.

4. The system of any preceding claim, further comprising the gas source.

5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the gas infusion system is incorporated into the vessel or tub .

6. The system of any of claims 1-5, wherein the gas source, the pump and the gas infusion module are mounted on a skid or frame.

7. The system of any of claims 1 -4 and 6, further comprising a gas booster coupled to the gas source.

8. The system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-7, wherein the pump pumps the liquid along a conduit to an inlet of the gas infusion module.

9. The system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-8, wherein the gas infusion module comprises a vent via which gas is vented.

10. The system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-9, further comprising an ultraviolet (UV) sterilization unit in fluid communication with and downstream of the gas infusion module, the UV sterilization unit operable to sterilize the gas infused liquid it receives from the gas infusion module.

11. The system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-10, further comprising a filter disposed between the first conduit and the pump.

12. The system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-11, wherein the gas infusion system is spaced from the vessel or tub.

13. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the gas is oxygen or ozone.

14. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the gas is oxygen and wherein the gas infused liquid returned to the chamber delivers oxygen to tissue of the human or animal body beneath a skin of the human or animal body to increase blood circulation and/or create vasodilation for improved health and wellness.

15. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the gas infusion module comprises a plurality of microporous hollow fibers via which the gas is delivered for mixing with and infusing the liquid with the gas.

16. A hydrotherapy method for health and wellness, comprising: pumping a flow of water from a chamber of a vessel or tub via a first conduit through a gas infusion module; flowing a gas from a gas source into the gas infusion module to infuse the flow of water with the gas; and flowing the gas infused water flow to the chamber of the vessel of tub via a second conduit to expose tissue of a human or animal body at least partially submerged in the chamber to the gas beneath a skin of the human or animal body to increase blood circulation and/or create vasodilation for improved health and wellness.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising sterilizing the gas infused water flow with ultraviolet light before flowing the gas infused water flow into the chamber of the vessel or tub.

18. The method of claims 16 or 17, further comprising filtering the flow of water between the first conduit and the pump.

19. The method of any of claims 16-18, wherein the gas infused water flow has a dissolved oxygen level of at least 18 mg/L.

20. The method of any of claims 16-19, wherein the gas infused water flow has a dissolved oxygen level of 45 mg/L.