Photo-curing orthopedic brace

The photocured orthopedic brace, using a single-layer hollow tube structure and photocurable material, solves the problems of existing orthopedic braces being heavy, not breathable, susceptible to moisture, and requiring water to harden. It provides a lightweight, breathable, washable, customizable, and comfortable solution, reducing the risk of infection and simplifying operation.

CN120837259APending Publication Date: 2025-10-28ZHENGZHOU LUBING TRADING CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511026827.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-07-24
Publication Date
2025-10-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing orthopedic bracing systems are heavy, not breathable, prone to moisture, difficult to clean, cannot be adjusted according to swelling, require water to harden and are difficult to cut, leading to discomfort and infection risks.

Method used

A photocurable orthopedic brace with a single-layer hollow tube structure is created by directly injecting a photocurable material that hardens upon skin contact, eliminating the need for fabrics and cushioning materials. It utilizes flexible materials and locking components for customized fixation.

Benefits of technology

It achieves lightweight and breathable properties, is washable, customizable comfort, requires no water hardening, reduces skin problems, provides even pressure distribution and allows for observation of swelling, simplifies the operating process, and reduces the risk of infection.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The photo-curing orthopedic brace comprises an orthopedic brace component, the orthopedic brace component is composed of a single-layer cavity piece structure, and the single-layer cavity piece is composed of small inflatable hollow pipes which are connected with one another and are in fluid communication to form a net-shaped structure; wherein the hollow tube is adapted to be in direct contact with the skin of a selected limb of a user during use of the orthopaedic brace, and wherein the orthopaedic brace is free of fabric or cushioning material intervening between the hollow tube and the skin of the selected limb during use, the orthopaedic brace member is adapted to inject at least one infusion material in the hollow tube, the hollow conduit is in direct contact with selected limb skin in use. Materials adopted by the brace are lighter in weight, the burden of a patient is relieved, meanwhile, the brace has good air permeability, breathing of the skin is facilitated, sweat retention is reduced, the risk of skin problems is reduced, customization can be conducted according to personal requirements, it is ensured that the fitting degree is higher, comfort is higher, and specific requirements of different patients can be met.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of orthopedic braces technology, specifically a light-cured orthopedic brace. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, most limb fractures, such as those of the arms and legs, as well as minor bone injuries like sprains and dislocations, are immobilized in plaster casts to provide support during the healing process. Plaster casts immobilize the limb, allowing the fracture to heal itself in the correct position. The most common plaster casts consist of multiple layers of fabric and cotton padding wrapped around the limb.

[0003] Traditional orthopedic braces are heavy, uncomfortable, and prone to erosion and deterioration from water and sweat. This often makes bathing, swimming, and other activities difficult or impossible for the wearer. Further difficulties can arise in adjusting the brace to accommodate swelling. The skin beneath the cast can also be affected by irritation, skin tears, and pressure points, all of which can lead to infection and threaten the limb. The techniques used in orthopedic bracing have remained largely unchanged over the past 100 years.

[0004] Parisian plaster was widely used until the advent of fiberglass materials in the 1980s. Plaster orthopedic braces have many problems because they are typically supplied as cast brace strips, made of fiber strips impregnated with Parisian pastel or any other hardening material (i.e., resin). Plaster is moistened and bonded together to form a rigid supporting orthopedic brace. Once bonded, the plaster adheres to the surface, creating a sturdy plaster orthopedic brace with fabric and cotton padding. Plaster made in this way loses its original strength when wet. Therefore, care must be taken to prevent the orthopedic brace from getting wet. Furthermore, any moisture beneath the plaster will dampen the fabric and cotton padding inside. The fabric and cotton padding can become wet from washing, bathing, swimming, rain, sweating, and other causes. Damp fabric and cotton padding can cause skin irritation and maceration after a short time. Mold and bacteria thrive in such an environment, producing an unpleasant odor. Because plaster cannot be wetted, it is very difficult to clean and wash, and skin irritants and dirt cannot be washed away.

[0005] Plaster casts are also heavy and rigid, and do not allow for swelling or shrinkage of the limb. In most cases, a plaster cast cannot be made until the swelling of the limb has subsided. If placed before the swelling has lessened, the plaster will become too loose to hold the limb in place. If placed too early while the limb is still swollen, the plaster will become too tight and create pressure.

[0006] When an orthopedic brace expands or continues to expand after placement, it is usually necessary to separate the brace to release the pressure. Therefore, there is a need for an orthopedic brace system that can continuously monitor the covered portion of the injured limb.

[0007] Fiberglass orthopedic braces, still in use today, have some advantages over plaster casts, but they also have their own problems in addition to some of the same issues encountered with plaster casts. Fiberglass braces are generally lighter, more breathable (to some extent), waterproof, and more durable than plaster casts. However, the fabric and cotton padding that comes into contact with the skin can become damp, just like with plaster casts. If this happens, the fiberglass must be removed, just like with plaster casts, to eliminate odor, mold, and skin irritation. Once the padding under the plaster cast becomes wet, there are few ways (such as using a hairdryer) to dry it, but these methods are cumbersome and based on unscientific methods, so they may not be an effective or reliable option. Fiberglass braces are also as rigid as plaster casts. They do not adjust to swelling and body condition to provide a better, more comfortable fit. Therefore, there is a perceived need for an orthopedic brace system that eliminates the need for padding within it.

[0008] Another major drawback of existing systems is the need to immerse the material (plaster, fiberglass, delta braces) in water for an exothermic reaction that activates the hardening or curing process. Applying plaster or fiberglass splints or orthopedic braces requires a systematic setup with proper supply and adequate preparation. This can be chaotic and inconvenient, often resulting in the orthopedic brace liner being soaked in water and then having to dry over time. The water temperature affects the length of time required for the orthopedic brace material to harden or cure. Colder water slows the process and requires longer pressure or shaping of the orthopedic brace on the patient's limb, while warmer water causes the material to solidify faster, generating more heat on the skin and potentially leading to premature hardening if the practitioner is not skilled in orthopedic braces, before the orthopedic brace material layers are fully applied or shaped. For the patient, this is both a chaotic and time-consuming process and often uncomfortable. Imagine if someone has a long bone fracture, such as a fracture of the tibia, radius, or ulna; any unnecessary or prolonged manipulation of the limb would not be taken seriously by the patient. Therefore, orthopedic bracing systems that do not require water for the hardening or curing process will be highly appreciated. Furthermore, after healing or when changing casts, it is difficult to cut and remove Paris plaster and fiberglass plaster. Additionally, plaster dust and fiber dust can cause problems during cutting.

[0009] W002004100829 discloses an orthopedic brace article comprising a polymer foam strip containing one or more curable resins. The polymer foam strip may be a foam having a substantially open-cell structure, a substantially closed-cell structure, or a substantially mesh-like structure. The curable resin may be a water-curable resin. The orthopedic brace article may be multilayered to obtain an article suitable for splinting applications.

[0010] US2011264022 (A1) discloses an orthopedic brace system having an orthopedic brace band and a tubular core, the orthopedic brace band containing a moisture-responsive resin. The orthopedic brace band is wound around the tubular core for transport and storage prior to use in forming the orthopedic brace. The tubular core is formed of a flexible polymer material and includes walls having inner and outer surfaces. The core walls have a plurality of relatively shallow protrusions and recesses extending linearly from the core. When the brace band is wound around the core, the recesses provide a series of longitudinal grooves along which water flows near the inner sheath of the brace band. However, the orthopedic brace involved in the above application suffers from problems with air circulation and washability.

[0011] Furthermore, WO2004100829 and US2011264022 describe resin-impregnated bandage rolls for orthopedic brace applications. These merely improve the application process of plaster casts, providing a simple moisturizing bandage application. The technology involved in the patent applications does not improve the final outcome of orthopedic braces, namely washability, moldability, and breathability.

[0012] WO2007038547 discloses an orthopedic brace system comprising a hydrophilic inner layer and a hydrophobic outer layer having opposing surfaces adjacent to the hydrophilic inner layer. The apparent surface energy of the hydrophobic layer is less than about 60 dynes / cm, and a curable orthopedic brace material is disposed on one of the opposing surfaces. However,

[0013] WO'547 describes a novel material for filling. The inventors of WO'547 have described a fabric that is waterproof, allowing patients to shower or wash their orthopedic braces. In contrast, this invention provides an orthopedic brace material that does not involve any filling material.

[0014] WO 2014071265 discloses a multi-layer orthopedic brace for securing a patient's body components. The orthopedic brace of WO 265 includes a hydrophobic sleeve and a moldable layer. The hydrophobic sleeve is shaped to be applied to and substantially conform to the shape of a body component. The moldable layer is configured to be positioned around the sleeve and hardened to conform to the shape of the body component adjacent to the sleeve. The moldable layer includes a network of pores extending through it; wherein the pores are configured to contact the hydrophobic sleeve to facilitate the outward flow of moisture from the hydrophobic sleeve through the moldable layer.

[0015] However, the technology disclosed in WO'265 uses three different layers to provide the required functionality, making the entire orthopedic brace more difficult and complex to wear and cast. Furthermore, WO'265 uses a hydrophobic layer to keep moisture away from the skin, but this technology is not completely waterproof. Water can penetrate the outer layer of the orthopedic brace and then dry only through evaporation. In contrast, the orthopedic brace material of this invention is very simple to use when wearing or casting.

[0016] US2013102940 discloses a combined orthopedic brace system for securing and supporting body parts. The combined orthopedic brace system includes a first inner layer for filling and dissipating heat from the patient's skin. A second layer is formed from a thermoformable structural material such as perforated plastic. A protective third outer layer provides insulation to the second layer. These three layers are formed together to create a monolithic orthopedic brace system that is easy to form and apply to a patient.

[0017] However, the thermoformable plastics used in US'940 soften at temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius and flow at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius. While this material can certainly be molded into body parts, its strength is questionable in hot climates, hot baths, or for workers exposed to high temperatures (furnaces). Furthermore, this casting system is not waterproof because the thermoformable layer is sandwiched between a heat-dissipating layer and an insulating layer, which are, of course, some kind of absorbent fabric or porous material.

[0018] Therefore, there is a need for a cost-effective, flexible orthopedic brace system for moving patient body components that is lighter, breathable, and washable, while also having the advantage of being customizable to the needs of individual patients, maintaining uniform pressure throughout the coverage area, and allowing observation of swelling of the covered skin through the skin. Summary of the Invention

[0019] In view of the above situation and to overcome the defects of the prior art, the present invention provides a light-cured orthopedic brace to at least partially solve the above technical problems.

[0020] The technical solution adopted in this invention is as follows:

[0021] This invention proposes a photocurable orthopedic brace, comprising: an orthopedic brace component, the orthopedic brace component being composed of a single-layer hollow sheet structure, the single-layer hollow sheet being composed of small inflatable hollow tubes interconnected and fluidly communicating to form a mesh structure; wherein, the hollow tubes are adapted to directly contact the skin of the user's selected limb during use of the orthopedic brace, and no fabric or cushioning material is interposed between the hollow tubes and the skin of the selected limb during use of the orthopedic brace; the orthopedic brace component is adapted to inject at least one infusion material into the hollow tubes, wherein, when the hollow tubes are in direct contact with the skin of the selected limb during use, the at least one infusion material is configured to harden in the hollow tubes, the at least one infusion material being selected from polyepoxy materials including epoxy resin, acrylate fillers and activators, polymers or any combination thereof, and cured by applying external ultraviolet light or natural light or cured for at least 10 minutes.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the orthopedic brace component is formed of a flexible material, which is composed of silicone rubber, latex rubber, synthetic rubber or any combination thereof, and the orthopedic brace component is configured in a rolled state and then deployed onto the selected limb during use.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the orthopedic brace component has a flat unfolded geometry, wherein the mesh structure is preformed and configured to conform to a selected portion of the limb.

[0024] In one embodiment of the invention, the orthopedic brace further includes at least one locking member disposed on at least one peripheral surface of the orthopedic brace component to provide means for attaching and removing the orthopedic brace component.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one locking member is a hook-and-loop or snap-fit ​​attachment member adapted to secure at least one peripheral surface to a second end when the orthopedic brace member is applied to the selected limb, and to provide adjustment in the orthopedic brace member to conform to the selected limb.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the orthopedic brace component has a shape configured to respond to the contour of the selected limb portion, and wherein the device is a glove worn on the selected limb portion 20.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the silicone rubber of the orthopedic brace component is elastic 25 and flexible, and non-rigid locking is provided by the hook or snap engagement attachment member serving as the at least one locking member of the orthopedic brace component, the orthopedic brace component being configured to adjust according to the contour of the user's selected limb during the hardening or curing of the orthopedic brace component.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the breathing orthopedic plaster device includes: a custom orthopedic brace component having a plurality of hollow tubes interconnected to form a mesh structure and capable of receiving at least one infusion material, the mesh structure being configured to provide breathability to the fractured limb, and the custom orthopedic brace component being made of a flexible material.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, the orthopedic brace has a custom orthopedic brace component with a shape corresponding to the contour of a patient's body component; at least one infusion material is pre-injected / infused into the custom orthopedic brace component via an external device; and the custom orthopedic brace component is wrapped around the fractured limb.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, the custom orthopedic brace component is worn or secured around the fractured limb by a locking member; the custom orthopedic brace component is cured by unfolding the polyethylene layer or by allowing the injection material to harden.

[0031] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention are as follows:

[0032] This invention uses lighter materials for the brace, reducing the burden on the patient, while also providing good breathability to facilitate skin respiration, reduce sweat retention, and lower the risk of skin problems.

[0033] This invention can be customized to individual needs, ensuring a better fit and greater comfort, thus meeting the specific needs of different patients. Furthermore, the elimination of padding in the brace simplifies the assembly process; and the absence of water during hardening or curing not only facilitates operation but also reduces discomfort or complications that may arise from residual moisture.

[0034] The uniform pressure distribution across the entire coverage area of ​​this invention promotes normal bone healing and avoids skin compression injuries or other complications caused by excessive localized stress. The brace features an observation window, allowing for direct examination of the skin condition, timely detection and treatment of swelling and other issues, and preventing poor blood circulation due to overly tight wrapping.

[0035] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0037] Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a flexible orthopedic brace component according to an embodiment of this subject matter is shown before it is applied to a fractured limb.

[0038] Figure 2 A flexible orthopedic brace component having a cavity for receiving infused material is shown according to one embodiment of this subject matter.

[0039] Figure 3 A flexible orthopedic brace component with a locking member is shown according to one embodiment of the subject matter, the locking member being disposed on a peripheral surface of the flexible orthopedic brace component.

[0040] Figure 4 A flexible orthopedic brace component that can be wrapped around a fracture site is shown according to one embodiment of this subject matter.

[0041] Figure 5 An embodiment of this subject matter is shown, a flexible orthopedic brace component applied to an individual limb.

[0042] Figure 6 Another embodiment of this subject matter is shown, in which a grouting material is applied to a repairable orthopedic brace component.

[0043] Figure 7 An orthopedic brace cutter for cutting flexible orthopedic brace components is shown according to one embodiment of this subject matter. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to be used to explain the present invention, and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0045] A photocurable orthopedic brace according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] In one implementation case, such as Figure 1 As shown, the three-dimensional view displays a flexible orthopedic brace component (l) prior to application to a patient's injured body component, which may be a fractured limb. The flexible orthopedic brace component includes a customizable orthopedic brace component (1) having multiple hollow tubes (4) injected with infusion material, the hollow tubes being interconnected to form a mesh structure (3) to provide breathability to aid in the treatment of the fractured limb.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the injection material can be injected into the cavity or inlet (5) provided on the surface of the orthopedic brace component (1), such as Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0048] In one implementation, the flexible orthopedic brace (1) further includes at least one locking member (6), such as Figure 3 As shown, the locking member can be disposed on the peripheral surface of the customizable orthopedic brace component (1). The locking member (6) is adapted to secure the peripheral surface to the other end if the customizable orthopedic brace component may become entangled on an injured body component. The locking member can be selected from, but is not limited to, hook and loop fasteners, Velcro™, or any combination thereof.

[0049] In one implementation, the flexible orthopedic brace component (1) can be a flat, unfolded geometry that can wrap around the fractured limb, and the flexible orthopedic brace component can be secured with a locking device. This structure of the breathable orthopedic brace offers greater feasibility in application, less patient pain, and faster application. The flat, unfolded design of the flexible orthopedic brace component reduces the requirements for dimensional changes.

[0050] In one implementation case, such as Figure 2 As shown, the flexible orthopedic brace component (1) has a cavity or inlet (5) for receiving infused material using external technology. The flexible orthopedic brace component (1) includes a hollow tube (small and expandable) and is filled with infused material.

[0051] In one implementation, the infusion material can be pre-injected into the cavity of the hollow tube of the flexible orthopedic brace component (1) before being applied to the fractured limb. This eliminates the need for an infusion assembly within the orthopedic brace component, such as... Figure 6 As shown. Because the infusion components are removed from the device, the application process and expected application time have been reduced from 20 minutes to 10 minutes. Specific techniques can be used to cure the infusion material from the outside. This can reduce the total application time of the breathable orthopedic cast around the fractured limb from 20 minutes to 10 minutes. The pre-injected material can be a light-curable epoxy resin that can cure upon exposure to natural sunlight.

[0052] In one implementation case, such as Figure 4 As shown, the flexible orthopedic brace component can be wound around the manufacturing site in a specific direction (7) and is securely locked by engaging the locking component (6), as... Figure 3 As shown. In another implementation case, as Figure 5As shown, the flexible orthopedic brace component (2) is shown as being applied to an individual limb, whereby the flexible orthopedic brace component can be used like a flexible glove. The flexible glove-like structure of the brace (2) can first roll downwards and then roll upwards onto the selected limb when worn. The glove-like structure is similar to a rubber glove, which consists of a network of interconnected hollow capillaries (4) that can be worn on the fractured limb. Infusion material can be injected post-application to harden the orthopedic brace to immobilize the limb. Figure 6 As shown, after the flexible orthopedic brace wears down, material needs to be injected. The flexible glove-like structure initially rolls downwards and then rolls onto the selected limb as it is worn. Cavities / holes provided in the flexible orthopedic brace component facilitate the infusion of infusion material into the orthopedic brace component after application to the fractured limb.

[0053] Flexible glove-like structures can be achieved through, for example Figure 7 The cutting tool shown makes cutting easy. The cutting tool can be a manual device that operates without electricity. It has a hinge and an inward-facing blunt blade for safe cutting. The cutting machine can also be mechanically driven, as it does not require an external power source and is safe even in the hands of an unskilled person.

[0054] In all implementations, the dimensions of the flexible orthopedic brace components (1 and 2) are customized to fit the patient's limb size. The orthopedic brace components may be made from materials selected from a flexible / elastic materials group, including but not limited to silicone rubber, latex rubber, synthetic rubber, or any combination thereof, to provide sufficient elasticity and flexibility required for the orthopedic brace components. These materials are stretchable and provide the ability to adapt to the external characteristics of the patient's limb. The mesh structure (3) of the flexible orthopedic brace components (1 and 2) allows physicians or technicians to monitor normal circulation or swelling around the fracture site. In all implementations, the injected material may be selected from a group of low-viscosity epoxy materials, including epoxy resins, polymers, acrylate fillers and activators, polyurethane, or any combination thereof.

[0055] In all embodiments, a curing technology is used to cure the infusion material. This curing technology can be selected from any composite material curing technology, and the composite material curing method can include, but is not limited to, thermosetting, ultraviolet curing, visible light curing, electromagnetic or electronic curing, etc. In the embodiments of the present invention, a photocurable composite epoxy resin can be used as the infusion material. Therefore, the characteristics of photocuring technology allow the material to cure freely by exposure to light, and ordinary epoxy resin is mixed with fillers such as nanofibers to improve the strength of the cured material. If used in orthopedic surgery, treatment must be performed under strict medical supervision.

[0056] In all implementation cases, the breathable orthotic braces used for fixation and stability include the following components:

[0057] 1. Customizable orthopedic braces (1 or 2)

[0058] 2. Hardened or grouting materials.

[0059] Customizable creation:

[0060] In one implementation, the customizable orthopedic brace component (1) can be a flat, unfolded geometry that can wrap around the fractured limb and be secured with a specially designed lock. The customizable orthopedic brace component can be made of materials selected from the flexible materials group, including silicone rubber, latex rubber, synthetic rubber, or any combination thereof. Based on anthropometric data, the customizable cast can be customized in 4-5 sizes. Casts have different small geometries, inspired by nature, giving them the strongest possible structure. The shape of the orthopedic brace may vary depending on the fracture site and intended use, including but not limited to short-arm orthopedic braces, full-arm orthopedic braces, bi-limb tubular orthopedic braces, Spica orthopedic braces, and collar orthopedic braces. After selecting the appropriate size, the cast will be shaped to conform to the contours of the patient's limb. The orthopedic brace component (1) may be provided with locking components (6) to secure the orthopedic brace component when it is wrapped around the fractured limb.

[0061] In another embodiment of the invention, the flexible orthopedic brace (2) can be identical to a rubber glove, which includes an interconnected network of hollow tubes (4) that can be worn on the fractured limb. The flexible orthopedic brace (2) can be used during disassembly, such as... Figure 7 Use the cutting tool shown to make the cut.

[0062] In both implementations, the orthopedic brace components can take the form of a mesh structure (3) made of interconnected hollow tubes (small and expanded) to form a mesh structure for a customizable orthopedic brace. The hollow tubes (4) of the orthopedic brace can be pre-filled or post-filled with injectable material. The orthopedic brace includes an opening / hole through which injectable material is injected into the orthopedic brace.

[0063] Grouting material / hardening material:

[0064] In one implementation, the infusion material can be a monomeric material selected to provide sufficient reinforcement for fixation. The material will be provided in two premixed forms, which will be mixed and infused into the flexible orthopedic brace via an infusion system. Polymerization can begin within 5-10 minutes and provide basic hardening strength within 15 minutes. Upon full polymerization, the infusion material reinforces the orthopedic brace components to impart strength. The infusion material can be pre-infused or post-infused into the glove channel from the infusion port. The infusion material is a fast-curing, low-viscosity epoxy resin material, provided in the form of two cartridges or a premixed cartridge with flexible orthopedic brace filler. The infusion can be administered via… Figure 6 The infusion assembly shown operates similarly to an infusion pump, is mechanically or electrically driven, and has tubing connected to the infusion port. Infusion can be administered at the site of fracture reduction and maintained for 10-15 minutes after infusion. Subsequently, the flexible orthopedic brace provides sufficient strength to stabilize the bone or damaged tendons. The mesh structure of the orthopedic brace provides breathability and visibility to the skin beneath it. No padding is used in the orthopedic brace, allowing for easy washing and cleaning.

[0065] The infusion material used in this invention can be any material with low viscosity and skin-friendly properties, so that it will not stick even if it comes into accidental contact with the skin, and can be transformed into a hard material within 10 minutes after infusion.

[0066] In one embodiment, a breathable orthopedic brace can be provided to a hospital as a specially designed, flat, elastic, and highly flexible structure (1), with holes on the surface for fingers or any specific anatomical bone markers, other holes for breathability, and locks. The entire device can be covered with a dark, opaque polyethylene layer that can be removed after use. The purpose of the polyethylene layer is to block sunlight from reaching the epoxy material, which may harden if exposed to sunlight for an extended period. In this embodiment, any material that blocks sunlight and can be removed when needed is suitable for this purpose. According to another embodiment of the invention, a flexible orthopedic brace (2) is made into a rubber bag resembling a glove with multiple holes. The orthopedic brace made of rubber can adapt to the shape and size of the limb and prevent the hardened material from being exposed to the skin. The hardened material fills the cavity.

[0067] In this invention, a breathable brace (1) can be applied by wrapping it around the fractured body part and securing it with a locking mechanism while maintaining appropriate tension on the device. A breathable, flexible orthopedic brace (2) can also be worn like a glove. The fractured bone can be aligned to its normal anatomical position, and treatment can begin by opening the dark polyethylene layer. A light-curing material can be pre- or post-injected into the hollow tube (4) and cured within 5 minutes of opening the polyethylene layer. In some cases, artificial light may be required when natural light is insufficient at night or in an enclosed space.

[0068] The curing time can be reduced from 10 minutes to 5-7 minutes. To remove the device, the locking device can be released, or the breathable brace (2) can be cut with a cutting tool.

[0069] This invention provides a cost-effective and efficient orthopedic brace system / component.

[0070] The present invention has the following advantages and technical features:

[0071] Lightweight; breathable: due to the mesh / mesh structure. The device facilitates airflow through the skin and prevents sweating; washable; customizable to individual patient needs; maintains uniform pressure throughout the process and allows the user to observe the skin for swelling of the covered skin; the complete orthopedic brace system / component operates with low resource settings; supports dry curing, meaning the orthopedic brace components do not require water for curing; supports planned operating times, i.e., controlling over-curing; the application of breathable orthopedic plaster devices can be extended to muscle or tendon sprains, joint injuries, scoliosis, or other conditions requiring short- or long-term immobilization. No filler material or padding layer is required because the flexible portion of the orthopedic brace is made of a skin-safe material. Uniform pressure is achieved because the flexible portion of the orthopedic brace adapts to the shape and size of the limb. The elastic material, i.e., silicone rubber, inherently possesses cushioning properties due to its compressibility. Although implementations of breathable and customizable orthopedic braces for immobilizing fractured limbs have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methods, it should be understood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Instead, specific features and methods are disclosed as examples of implementation cases for breathable and custom-made orthopedic braces used to fix fractured limbs.

[0072] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as first and second, etc., are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Moreover, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0073] The present invention and its embodiments are described above. This description is not restrictive. The drawings show only one embodiment of the present invention, and the actual structure is not limited thereto. In short, if a person skilled in the art is inspired by this and, without departing from the purpose of the present invention, designs structures and embodiments similar to this technical solution without inventiveness, they shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A light-cured orthopedic brace, characterized in that, include: An orthopedic brace component comprising a single-layer hollow sheet structure, the single-layer hollow sheet being composed of interconnected and fluidly connected small inflatable hollow tubes forming a mesh structure; wherein the hollow tubes are adapted to directly contact the skin of a user's selected limb during use of the orthopedic brace, and no fabric or cushioning material is inserted between the hollow tubes and the skin of the selected limb during use; the orthopedic brace component is adapted to inject at least one infusion material into the hollow tubes, wherein when the hollow tubes are in direct contact with the skin of the selected limb during use, the at least one infusion material is configured to harden within the hollow tubes, the at least one infusion material being selected from polyepoxy materials including epoxy resin, acrylate fillers and activators, polymers, or any combination thereof, cured by external ultraviolet light or natural light or cured for at least 10 minutes.

2. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace component is formed of a flexible material, which is composed of silicone rubber, latex rubber, synthetic rubber or any combination thereof, and the orthopedic brace component is configured in a rolled state and then deployed onto the selected limb during use.

3. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace component has a flat, unfolded geometry, wherein the mesh structure is pre-formed and configured to conform to a selected portion of the limb.

4. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace further includes at least one locking member disposed on at least one peripheral surface of the orthopedic brace component to provide means for attaching and removing the orthopedic brace component.

5. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one locking member is a hook-and-loop or snap-fit ​​attachment member adapted to secure at least one peripheral surface to a second end when the orthopedic brace member is applied to the selected limb, and to provide adjustment within the orthopedic brace member to conform to the selected limb.

6. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace component has a shape configured to respond to the contour of the selected limb portion, and the device is a glove worn on the selected limb portion 20.

7. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace component possesses elasticity 25 and flexibility of silicone rubber, and non-rigid locking is provided by hook or snap-fit ​​attachment members serving as at least one locking member of the orthopedic brace component. The orthopedic brace component is configured to adjust according to the contour of the user's selected limb during hardening or curing of the orthopedic brace component.

8. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic plaster device for breathing includes: a custom orthopedic brace component having multiple hollow tubes interconnected to form a mesh structure and capable of receiving at least one infusion material, the mesh structure being configured to provide breathability to the fractured limb, and the custom orthopedic brace component being made of a flexible material.

9. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthopedic brace has a custom-designed orthopedic brace component with a shape corresponding to the contour of the patient's body components; at least one infusion material is pre-injected / infused into the custom-designed orthopedic brace component via an external device; The custom orthopedic brace component is wrapped around the fractured limb.

10. The light-cured orthopedic brace according to claim 1, characterized in that, The custom orthopedic brace is worn or secured around the fractured limb by a locking component; the custom orthopedic brace is cured by unfolding the polyethylene layer or by allowing the injection material to be injected.

Citation Information

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