Postural Hypotension Correction Binder

Problem Statement

Postural hypotension causes a drop in blood pressure when a person shifts from a lying to a standing position, often leading to fainting. Elderly patients, especially those with memory issues, struggle to remember to stand up slowly, making them vulnerable during nighttime bathroom visits.   

Contributors

Kaavya Jayaram

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About Postural Hypotension Correction Binder

Solution

  An automated abdominal compression system that activates when the patient gets up from bed, using pressure sensors and a fan-inflated belt to prevent sudden BP drops. 

Additional Info

Final Implementation: The patient wears a loose abdominal belt to bed. Pressure sensors under the pillow detect when the head lifts (indicating the person is getting up). This triggers: A voice alert reminding the patient to stand up slowly. Fan activation to inflate the belt and apply abdominal pressure. Increased BP (by 5–10 mm Hg) during standing to prevent fainting. The system automatically deflates after a safe interval for comfort. Hardware Used: Microcontroller: ESP32 (custom PCB) Sensors: Force/pressure sensors under the pillow Actuation: Fan-powered belt compression Power: External power supply (5V system, fan powered separately) Other Components: Buzzer, wires, compression belt with pump Programming Logic: Pressure sensor detects the absence of head pressure (=0 → person is getting up). Sends signal to fan → inflates belt. Buzzer sounds to alert user and caregivers. Compression holds for a timed duration, then releases. Challenges & Solutions: Sensor wire breakage: Learned and applied soldering to fix. Burnt ESP32: Troubleshot and rewired to prevent recurrence. Idea Evolution / Brainstorming: Medication for BP: Rejected due to side effects and non-selective action. Limiting night movement: Considered bedside commodes/diapers—rejected due to discomfort and not solving BP issue. Timed Compression (Final Choice): Smart compression based on pillow sensor trigger. Constraints: Elderly patients with memory issues often forget to rise slowly. Nighttime is especially risky due to lack of supervision. Skills Applied: CAD | Electronics | Design Thinking | Programming | Soldering | Prototyping

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