Abstract: A body surface compression device for generating cyclical or constant compressions for medical purposes. Compression is accomplished using pneumatic actuated artificial muscle in combination with a belt placed around a body part. Both artificial muscle shortening and pneumatic expansion are used for compression. A unique useful property of this system is the length-tension characteristic similar to natural muscle which reduces applied compressive force proportionally with the level of volume compression of the body part. This property as well as a uniformly applied compression over the body part allows compression to be accomplished in a way which resembles natural muscle activation and minimizes overall abnormal stress on the body part.

Abstract: A body surface compression device for generating cyclical or constant compressions for medical purposes. Compression is accomplished using pneumatic actuated artificial muscle in combination with a belt placed around a body part. Both artificial muscle shortening and pneumatic expansion are used for compression. A unique useful property of this system is the length-tension characteristic similar to natural muscle which reduces applied compressive force proportionally with the level of volume compression of the body part. This property as well as a uniformly applied compression over the body part allows compression to be accomplished in a way which resembles natural muscle activation and minimizes overall abnormal stress on the body part.

Abstract: Apparatus for measuring ventilation of a body having a surface that moves in response to the ventilation. The apparatus may include a first permanent magnet, a first magnet attachment mechanism configured to attach the first magnet to the surface, a first magnetic sensor having an output, a first sensor attachment mechanism configured to attach the first sensor to the surface, and a processing system configured to communicate with the magnetic sensor and to determine the ventilation based on the output of the magnetic sensor. An associated process is also disclosed, along with broader applications of the apparatus and process.