WO2025212848A1 - Systems for automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosed subject matter provides a system for automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The system comprises a main body configured to be securely positioned on the patient, wherein the main body comprises a rack and pinion system configured to deliver automated CPR compressions to the patient and at least one sensor configured to determine if the compression is actuated; a housing covering the main body; foldable legs engaged on a bottom portion of the main body, wherein the foldable legs are configured to extend out on an adjustable angle relative to a vertical direction, so that a height between the main body and patient is adjustable; and an operator panel disposed on a top portion of the housing, wherein the operator panel is electrically connected with the main body for controlling the automated CPR compressions.

Description

SYSTEMS FOR AUTOMATED CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This International Patent Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/574,113, filed on April 3, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

The disclosed subject matters are related to techniques for a medical device, more specifically to a system for automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the U.S., with survival rates highly dependent on the timely administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival for a patient experiencing cardiac arrest. However, only approximately 40% of cardiac arrest victims receive efficient bystander CPR before emergency medical services arrive.

Certain CPR assistive devices can improve the effectiveness and consistency of chest compressions but also have drawbacks, e.g., cost, limited functionality, and lacking features such as adaptive compression control, real-time feedback, or integration with automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Thus, there is a need for an improved CPR system that is both cost-effective and functionally advanced, ensuring that bystanders and first responders can perform high-quality CPR with minimal training and effort.

SUMMARY

The disclosed subject matter provides an automated device that enables a bystander to deliver a chest automated CPR compression to a patient in emergency situations, characterized with flexibility, affordability, and portability.

An example system for automated CPR includes a main body configured to be securely positioned on the patient, including a rack and pinion system configured to deliver automated CPR compressions to the patient and at least one sensor configured to determine if the compression is actuated. The system also includes a housing covering the main body, foldable legs engaged on a bottom portion of the main body and configured to extend out on an adjustable angle relative to a vertical direction, so that a height between the main body and patient is adjustable. The system further includes an operator panel disposed on a top portion of the housing, and is electrically connected with the main body for controlling the automated CPR compressions.

In some embodiments, the main body further comprises a motor module and a gearbox, where the motor module is configured to drive the gearbox, and the gearbox is configured to amplify a torque and transmit an amplified torque to the rack and pinion system. In such embodiments, the motor module comprises a motor, a motor driver, and a microcontroller. The motor, the motor driver, and the microcontroller are electrically connected to each other. The microcontroller is configured to receive input signals from the operator panel, such that the motor driver is actuated to drive the motor. The gearbox can comprise a worm gearbox including at least one screw-type gear coupled to at least one toothed-type gear, respectively. The gearbox is configured to receive a torque from the motor module, and amplify the torque at a ratio of 5: 1. Gears in the gearbox have a fixed radius, and the drive gear has an adjustable radius. The rack includes a compression platform at a distal end thereof, and the compression platform is configured to extend downward to deliver the compressions, via an opening on the bottom of the main body.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a connector connecting the gearbox to the drive gear. The drive gear is engaged with the rack to actuate a linear motion of the rack, thereby implementing the automated CPR compressions of the compression platform. The sensor is configured to determine an actuation of the compression by identifying contact between the compression platform and a chest of the patient.

In some embodiments, each of the foldable legs is coupled to a leg support having at least one slot configured to engage with a hinge, where the hinge and the leg support are engaged via a fastener, and the leg support comprises an angle stop. Each of the foldable legs is inserted into a hollow portion of the leg support. The hinge is connected at an intersection between the hinge and the leg support. The leg support is configured to pivot into various angles along the intersection.

In some embodiments, the operator panel comprises an automatic emergency indicator and a “ON” button. Each of the compressions has a compression force less than or equal to 500N, a compression rate less than or equal to 120bpm, and a compression depth less than or equal to 5cm. The rack has a linear velocity of 0.2m/s. The main body further comprises a rack holder.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various examples and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. Any features of an embodiment or example described herein can be combined with any other embodiment or example, and are encompassed by the present disclosure.

FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary configuration of an automated CPR system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. IB depicts the automated CPR system in operation, demonstrating how the system delivers compressions to a patient, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 1C presents a perspective view of the automated CPR system with the housing removed, revealing the internal mechanical components, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. ID provides a top-down view of the automated CPR system, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. IE displays an illustration of the gear mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. IF provides an illustration of the rack holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2A illustrates a leg support mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2B illustrates a hinge mechanism that connects the leg support to the main body, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2C shows how the foldable leg engages with the main body of the automated CPR system, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

The disclosed subject matter provides an automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) system for bystanders, emphasizing affordability and portability. The system provides an automated mechanism to deliver chest compressions effectively and reliably in emergency situations.

CPR System

Referring to FIG. 1A and IB, the subject matter provides an example automated CPR system 100. The system 100 comprises a main body 110, a housing 112, foldable legs 114, and an operator panel 116. The main body 110 can be securely positioned over the patient’s chest when the patient is lying down and houses the key mechanical and electrical components installed in the main body 110 required for delivering automated chest compressions. The operator panel 116 comprises certain functional buttons and indicators, e.g., a “ON” button 1161 and an automatic emergence call indicator 1160, providing a real-time feedback regarding the system’s operation.

The design provides an intuitive interface for operators to simplify activation in high- stress situations. The automatic emergency indicator 1160 serves as a visual cue to inform the user of the operational status of the system. When the system is powered on, it allows 911 to be automatically dialed, with a built-in message indicating that a cardiac arrest is taking place with the specific location. The "ON" button 1161 is strategically positioned for a quick actuation of the compressions, ensuring that even an untrained bystander can immediately start CPR compressions with minimal effort. Such features enhance the system’s usability, making it a practical solution for bystander CPR interventions in emergency scenarios.

The housing 112 can comprise a handle 118 for portable carrying. Notably, in an unactuated status, the system 100 can be disposed in a compact manner, e.g., placed in a container or mounted on the wall. Alternatively, in an actuated status, the system 100 is positioned on the patient directly without any additional assistance of a backboard for the automated CPR compression readily by a bystander. Referring to FIG. 1A, the housing 112 encloses and protects the main body 110 while providing a stable structural framework for operation. The foldable legs 1110, mounted on the bottom portion of the main body 110, can extend outward at an adjustable angle relative to the vertical direction. This adjustability enables operators, e.g., bystanders, to fine-tune the height between the main body 110 and the patient, ensuring that the compression platform 1108 delivers compressions at the correct depth for effective CPR. The operator panel 116, disposed on the top portion of the housing 112, serves as the control interface for users. It is electrically connected to the main body 110, allowing operators to start, stop, and adjust CPR settings.

Referring to FIG. 1C and ID, an interior perspective illustration for the main body 110 is provided. A rack 1106 (one part of a rack and pinion system), located within the main body 110, converts rotational motion into linear motion, driving a compression platform 1108, which can be built at the distal end of the rack 1106, downward to deliver CPR compressions. In some embodiments, the compression platform 1108 is configured to be contact with the chest of the patient. At least one sensor (not shown) built in within the main body 110, e.g., embedded in the compression platform 1108, is integrated into the system 100, with at least one sensor configured to detect whether a compression is actuated. For example, one of the plurality of sensors can use pressure sensing, proximity detection, or optical feedback to determine whether the compression platform 1108 has made contact with the patient's chest, thereby ensuring accurate and effective compression cycles. The compression platform 1108 can comprise a soft piece, e.g., a foam or silicon, at the bottom thereof to soften the contact to the chest and avoid scratches, rib fractures, and discomfort.

Such a sensor can comprise a force sensor. An example operational mechanism of the force sensor can include the following: a) pre-compression detection: when the system is activated “ON”, the rack 1106 lowers the compression platform 1108 toward the patient’s chest. During this descent, the force sensor continuously monitors pressure levels. If no significant resistance is detected, the system remains in standby mode, preventing premature compressions; b) contact verification: the moment the compression platform 1108 makes physical contact with the chest, the force sensor registers a threshold resistance. A microcontroller included in the motor module 1101, which is electrically connected to the force sensor, verifies this resistance to confirm patient contact; c) compression activation: only after the force sensor confirms sufficient contact does the motor module initiate CPR compressions. This mechanism ensures that compressions are not applied in mid-air, preventing ineffective operation or potential harm due to improper placement. For example, if the sensor detects inadequate or lost contact (e.g., the compression platform 1108 shifts off position due to movement), compressions are automatically paused to prevent ineffective operation. By incorporating this force sensor-controlled compression initiation, the system enhances reliability, safety, and overall effectiveness, making it particularly suitable for bystander emergency use.

Referring to FIG. IE and IF, the main body 110 further comprises a motor module 1101 with a motor holder 1102 and a gearbox 1103 with multiple gears, which work together to generate and amplify motion for CPR compressions. The gearbox 1103 can be connected with a drive gear 1105 with a gear connector 1104. The motor module 1101 can include a motor 1101-1 (e.g., Nema 34 Stepper Motor, 6A 12Nm (1700 oz-in), 156mm Length for CNC Router Mill Lathe), responsible for generating the primary rotational motion. A motor driver 1101-2 (e.g., DM442 Microstep Driver) regulates power delivery to the motor 1101-1 to ensure controlled operation. A microcontroller 1101-03 (e.g., Arduino Uno or equivalent), processes input signals from the operator panel and translates them into motor actuation commands. These components are electrically connected, forming a closed-loop control system that allows real-time adjustment of compression parameters. The microcontroller enables precise control of the compression force, rate, and depth, ensuring compliance with standard CPR guidelines. In some embodiments, the motor module 1101 features a programmed torque of approximately 6.5 N m and a programmed speed of 150 RPM. It operates with a 48V input and can be modulated at 48V, 10A using a universal switching power converter adapter. This transformer- regulated AC-to-DC motor driver provides a power output of 480W.

In some embodiments, the main body 110 can comprise a platform, e.g., a table 1121, installing these parts noted above. The motor holder 1102 stabilizes and secures the motor onto the table 1121, ensuring that vibrations and mechanical forces generated during operation do not affect the alignment or performance of the motor module 1101. The table 1121 can have a frame structure at the bottom thereof, configured to engage with the foldable legs 1110.

Referring to FIG. IE, the motor module 1101 is configured to drive the gearbox 1103, which in turn propels the rack and pinion system to generate the necessary downward force for CPR compressions. For example, the motor module 1101 transmits rotational power to the gearbox 1103, which converts and transfers this power to the drive gear 1105. The transmitted rotational power can be amplified as a torque output realized by the motor module 1101. The drive gear 1105 engages with the rack 1106, inducing a controlled linear motion that drives the compression platform 1108 downward. This direct mechanical linkage ensures efficient power transmission, providing consistent and effective compressions while maintaining structural stability during operation. The rack and pinion system including the rack 1106 and the drive gear 1105 serves as the primary mechanism for translating rotational motion into linear motion. As noted above, the rack 1106 includes a compression platform 1108 positioned at a distal end. This compression platform extends downward through an opening on the bottom of the main body 110, ensuring direct contact with the patient’s chest during operation. The use of the drive gear 1105 engaging with the rack 1106 ensures that the linear motion is smooth and controlled, preventing jerky movements that could compromise the effectiveness of CPR. The gear ratio of the system can improve or optimize compression force and rate, ensuring that each downward stroke of the compression platform follows the recommended depth and speed for automated CPR. In some embodiments, the rack 1106 can have a length more than 10cm.

In some embodiments, to maintain precise mechanical alignment and reduce undesirable vibrations, the gearbox 1103 is engaged with the drive gear 1105 via a connector 1201. This engagement ensures that the rotational force is transmitted efficiently and without significant energy loss. In some embodiments, the connector 1201 can be a stabilizing rod, which serves to prevent eccentric rotation of both the drive gear 1105 and the gearbox 1103. With this stabilization, the rotational misalignment and irregular force application can be avoided. The connector functions to absorb vibrations and mechanical stress, thereby reducing wear and ensuring consistent mechanical engagement between the drive gear 1105 and the rack 1106. The connector 1201 can be a coupling mechanism, such as a keyed shaft, spline connection, or flexible coupling. Additionally, the connector 1201 may incorporate damping features or a bearing interface to absorb mechanical shocks and further enhance the durability of the automated CPR system.

In some embodiments, to further improve the stability and precision of the rack’s linear motion, the main body includes a rack holder 1107 with a groove that can secure the rack’s perpendicular movement, as shown in FIG. IF. The rack holder 1107 is strategically positioned to ensure that the rack moves only in a linear direction, preventing any lateral deviation that could affect the uniformity of the compressions. The rack holder 1107 can be secured to the table using a fastener inserted through at least one slot 1109, allowing for stable attachment while accommodating slight positional adjustments if needed.

Foldable Legs and Engagement with Main Body

Referring to FIG. 2A, 2B, and 2C, each of foldable legs 1110 is coupled to a leg support 1111 that features at least one slot 1111-01, e.g., three slots, can engage with a hinge 1112. The hinge 1112 and leg support 1111 are connected via a fastener, which allows for secure yet adjustable positioning of the legs 1110. The fastener can be a screw or nut. In some embodiments, the hinge 1112 can have three slots, including two horizontal slots 1112-0 la on two side surfaces, respectively, and one vertical slot 1112-Olb on a top surface. The vertical slot 1112-01b is configured to attach the hinge 1112 to the foldable leg via a fastener. The two horizontal slots 1112-01b connect the hinge 1112 to the leg support 1111 via a fastener feeding through the slots between the leg support and the hinge.

To accommodate patients of different body sizes and ensure proper positioning of the compression platform 1108, the leg support 1111 further includes an angle stop 1111-01, e.g., a triangle tongue or wedge, which can be located against the bottom of the main body 110, allowing the foldable legs 1110 to be adjusted at different angles relative to the vertical direction. This adjustability provides the system with the flexibility to be height-adjustable, not only ensuring that the compression platform properly aligns with the patient’s chest, but also enhancing stability, weight distribution, and strength against lateral forces. Compared to a vertical direction, angled legs create a wider base of support, reducing the risk of tipping over, especially when weight is applied unevenly. The angle can be adjusted via the hinge 1112, so operators can adjust the height to ensure the patient can fit comfortably under the system.

Additionally, the foldable legs 1110 can be inserted into a hollow portion of the leg support 1111, providing a compact and portable form factor, as they are essential for maintaining proper device positioning and stability. Instead, the legs are configured to fold inward against the main body 110 for storage purposes.

At least one blocks 1112-02 are mounted on a top surface of the hinge 1112 to fasten the hinge 1112 to the frame at the bottom of the main body 110. Such a fastening mechanism can provide a structural reinforcement. The hinge 1112 is connected at an intersection between the hinge 1112 and the leg support 1111. The leg support 1111 can pivot into various angles along the intersection, allowing the foldable legs to fold inward or outward. In an actuation of the CPR compression, the angle stop is extended against the frame to securely lock in place during operation, thereby preventing accidental collapse or instability.

Parameters

In some embodiments, the compression characteristics of the system include, but are not to limited to: a compression force at a maximum of 500N, a compression rate at a maximum of 120 beats per minute (bpm), and a compression depth at a maximum depth of 5 cm. These parameters are precisely controlled by the motor 1110-01 and microcontroller 1110-03, ensuring that every compression is delivered with consistent force and timing. The system also incorporates a plurality of sensors to verify that each compression is successfully delivered and meets the predefined specifications. As noted above, the power mechanism in the system includes a gearbox and a rack and pinion system including a rack and a drive gear, and all parts in the power mechanism can have different radii/dimensions and rotation/linear velocities to optimize the efficiency of the CPR compressions. Table 1 lists multiple parameters for the above three components of the system according to some embodiments of the subject matter: Table 1

In the Table above, the data on Columns 1-2 corresponds to parameters of the motor module, the data on Columns 3-10 corresponds to parameters of the drive gear and the rack. Notably, the sizes of gears in the gearbox, e.g., screw-type gear or toothed-type gear, are fixed, and the size of drive gear 1105 is adjustable to accommodate different torque and speed requirements. Additionally, as designed in the disclosed subject matter, the gear torque output from the motor is conveyed to the gearbox, and then is amplified by the gearbox at a ratio of 5: 1, ensuring sufficient force for effective CPR compressions. The differentiation in gear parameters of the system can adjust power amplification and enable a controlled motion. The design in the subject matter optimizes efficiency while maintaining mechanical durability, ensuring that the device operates reliably in real-world emergency situations. To ensure precise and controlled compression delivery, the rack is configured to move at a linear velocity of 0.2 m/s. This velocity can be aligned with medically recommended CPR compression cycles.

Various modifications and alterations to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. Further, it should be noted that the language used herein has been selected for readability rather than to delineate or limit the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the disclosure herein is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Moreover, the principles of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented in various configurations of hardware and/or software, and are not intended to be limited in any way to the specific embodiments presented herein.

Claims

What is claimed is,

1. A system for providing automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to a patient in need thereof, comprising: a main body configured to be securely positioned on the patient, wherein the main body comprises a rack and pinion system configured to deliver automated CPR compressions to the patient and at least one sensor configured to determine if the compression is actuated; a housing covering the main body; foldable legs engaged on a bottom portion of the main body, wherein the foldable legs are configured to extend out on an adjustable angle relative to a vertical direction, so that a height between the main body and patient is adjustable; and an operator panel disposed on a top portion of the housing, wherein the operator panel is electrically connected with the main body for controlling the automated CPR compressions.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a motor module and a gearbox, wherein the motor module is configured to drive the gearbox, and the gearbox is configured to amplify a torque and transmit an amplified torque to the rack and pinion system.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the motor module comprises a motor, a motor driver, and a microcontroller, wherein the motor, the motor driver, and the microcontroller are electrically connected to each other.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive input signals from the operator panel, such that the motor driver is actuated to drive the motor.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein the gearbox includes a worm gearbox.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the worm gearbox comprises at least one screwtype gear coupled to at least one toothed-type gear, respectively.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the rack and pinion comprises a drive gear and a rack.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the drive gear is engaged with the rack to actuate a linear downward motion of the rack, thereby implementing the automated CPR compressions of the compression platform.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to determine an actuation of the compression by identifying contact between the compression platform and a chest of the patient.

10. The system of claim 6, wherein gears in the gearbox have a fixed radius, and the drive gear has an adjustable radius.

11. The system of claim 2, wherein the gearbox is configured to receive a torque from the motor module, and amplify the torque at a ratio of 5 : 1.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the foldable legs is coupled to a leg support having at least one slot configured to engage with a hinge, wherein the hinge and the leg support are engaged via a fastener, and the leg support comprises an angle stop.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein each of the foldable legs is inserted into a hollow portion of the leg support.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the hinge comprises at least one block on a surface thereof, configured to fasten the main body on a bottom thereof.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the hinge is connected at an intersection between the hinge and the leg support.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the leg support is configured to pivot into various angles along the intersection.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the operator panel comprises an automatic emergency indicator and a “ON” button.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the compressions has a compression force less than or equal to 500N, a compression rate less than or equal to 120bpm, and a compression depth less than or equal to 5cm.

19. The system of claim 10, wherein the rack has a linear velocity of 0.2m/s.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a rack holder.