Brake for epicondylitis based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite materials

Abstract

This invention discloses a protective garment for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, belonging to the field of medical protective gear technology. It includes a forearm support and an upper arm support, which are rotatably connected by an adjusting mechanism. The upper arm and forearm sleeves are 3D printed using an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, which comprises a polylactic acid matrix, a graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle-carbon nanotube ternary composite filler, and phase change microcapsules, with a thermal conductivity of 1.5-4.0 W·m. ‑1 ·K ‑1 With an antibacterial rate of ≥95%, it solves the problems of poor thermal conductivity, lack of antibacterial properties, and uneven heat therapy in existing protective gear.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical protective equipment technology, and in particular to a protective device for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite materials. Background Technology

[0002] Epiconemitis is a common overuse injury of the elbow, often caused by repetitive contraction and traction of the forearm extensor or flexor muscles, leading to chronic inflammatory damage to the tendons and soft tissues at the lateral or medial epicondyle of the humerus. Patients typically experience elbow pain and limited range of motion, especially during everyday activities such as raising the arm, flexing the elbow, and clenching the fist, where the affected area is easily aggravated by tendon traction, severely impacting quality of life and the recovery process. Therefore, in clinical practice, braces are often used to support and protect the elbow, reducing stress on the affected area, limiting unnecessary activities, and creating a favorable environment for inflammation resolution.

[0003] However, most existing braces for epicondylitis use a fixed design, which cannot adjust the elbow angle according to the patient's posture during daily activities or rest. Fixed-angle braces either restrict the patient's normal movement or cannot adapt to relaxed postures during rest, resulting in a poor wearing experience and difficulty in long-term adherence. Although some braces have adopted an adjustable-angle design, the existing technology has the following shortcomings:

[0004] First, most existing protective gear materials use biocompatible polymers such as common polylactic acid (PLA) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which have low thermal conductivity (PLA approximately 0.13 W·m). -1 ·K -1 TPU is approximately 0.19 W·m -1 ·K -1 With poor thermal conductivity, heat tends to accumulate in the area where the skin contacts the protective gear after prolonged wear, causing stuffiness and discomfort. This is especially true in summer or after exercise, where the difficulty in dissipating heat severely affects wearing comfort.

[0005] Secondly, the elbow joint area has a high rate of sweat secretion, and wearing protective gear for a long time will lead to increased local humidity, providing a suitable environment for bacterial growth. Existing protective gear materials lack antibacterial function and cannot effectively inhibit the reproduction of common skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which can easily cause skin infections, itching, rashes and other problems. For patients with epicondylitis, secondary infection of the inflamed area will significantly delay the recovery process.

[0006] Third, although existing protective gear is equipped with heating elements such as infrared heat packs for heat therapy, the heat generated by the infrared heat packs is difficult to be evenly conducted to the inflamed area due to the poor thermal conductivity of the protective gear material. This results in uneven local temperature distribution. The area near the heating element may be too hot and cause low-temperature burns, while the area far from the heating element is not hot enough to reach the effective heat therapy temperature (38-42℃), thus greatly reducing the heat therapy effect.

[0007] Fourth, although existing technologies include solutions that use graphene oxide (GO) for antibacterial purposes or carbon nanotubes (CNT) for thermal conductivity, single-function fillers cannot simultaneously meet the dual requirements of efficient antibacterial properties and excellent thermal conductivity. Furthermore, high filler content can significantly degrade the mechanical properties and 3D printing processing performance of the material, thus limiting the practical application of functional protective gear.

[0008] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a new composite material that combines excellent antibacterial properties, high thermal conductivity, and good biocompatibility, and to apply it to the manufacture of braces for epicondylitis of the humerus, so as to improve the wearing comfort, antibacterial safety, and thermotherapy effectiveness of the braces and meet the needs of patients for long-term wear and rehabilitation. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In view of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, so as to solve the technical problems of poor thermal conductivity of existing braces leading to stuffiness and discomfort, lack of antibacterial function easily causing skin infection, and uneven distribution of heat therapy temperature affecting the rehabilitation effect.

[0010] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0011] A brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material includes a forearm support, an upper arm support, an adjustment unit, an upper arm sleeve, and a forearm sleeve. The forearm support is positioned to correspond to the human forearm, and the upper arm support is positioned to correspond to the human upper arm. The proximal end of the forearm support and the distal end of the upper arm support are positioned opposite each other along the rotation axis of the elbow joint. The adjustment unit is fitted between the forearm support and the upper arm support at the elbow joint position to allow relative rotation of the forearm support and the upper arm support around the elbow joint. The upper arm sleeve is fixed to the inner wall of the upper arm support along the length direction of the upper arm support, and the forearm sleeve is fixed to the inner wall of the forearm support along the length direction of the forearm support.

[0012] Both the upper arm and forearm sheaths are made of antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, integrally formed by 3D printing to create a hollow structure. The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material includes a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix, a ternary composite filler of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes dispersed within the PLA matrix, and phase change microcapsules. In the graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle-carbon nanotube ternary composite filler, silver nanoparticles are loaded on the surface of the graphene oxide, and carbon nanotubes are interspersed between the graphene oxide sheets to form a three-dimensional thermally conductive network. The core material of the phase change microcapsules is an organic phase change material with a phase change temperature of 32-38℃, and the wall material is melamine-formaldehyde resin. The thermal conductivity of the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material is 1.5-4.0 W·m. -1 ·K -1 It has an antibacterial rate of ≥95% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

[0013] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0014] First, this invention employs a ternary composite filler consisting of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes. Compared to the single filler system in existing technologies, the carbon nanotubes in the ternary composite filler are interspersed between the graphene oxide sheets, constructing a three-dimensional interconnected thermally conductive channel. This effectively reduces phonon scattering and increases the thermal conductivity of the composite material to 1.5-4.0 W·m. -1 ·K -1 Compared to pure polylactic acid, it is 10-30 times more effective, significantly accelerating heat dissipation in the area where the skin contacts the protective gear, effectively solving the problem of stuffiness during long-term wear.

[0015] Secondly, the ternary composite filler achieves highly efficient antibacterial activity through a triple synergistic antibacterial mechanism: the sharp nano-edges of graphene oxide physically puncture and damage bacterial cell membranes, and silver nanoparticles are slowly released. It binds to sulfhydryl groups in bacterial proteins to inhibit bacterial metabolism. At the same time, graphene oxide generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light conditions, inducing bacterial oxidative stress damage. The synergistic effect of these three mechanisms enables the composite material to achieve an antibacterial rate of ≥95% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, effectively preventing skin infections caused by long-term wear.

[0016] Third, the introduction of phase change microcapsules enables intelligent control and uniform distribution of thermotherapy temperature. When the heat generated by the infrared warming patch causes the local temperature of the protective gear to exceed the phase change temperature (32-38℃), the phase change material absorbs latent heat and undergoes a solid-liquid phase change to prevent local overheating. When the heat is conducted to the surrounding area and the temperature drops below the phase change temperature, the phase change material releases latent heat to maintain the temperature. Combined with the rapid heat conduction of the high thermal conductivity filler, the temperature distribution of the entire protective gear surface is uniform, and the temperature difference is controlled within ±2℃. This avoids the risk of low-temperature burns and ensures the effective thermotherapy temperature of the inflamed area, significantly improving the thermotherapy effect.

[0017] Fourth, the brace, with its forearm support and upper arm support fitting the forearm and upper arm respectively, combined with the adjustment part set at the corresponding elbow joint, allows for flexible relative rotation of the two around the elbow joint, meeting the patient's support needs at different angles during daily activities or rest. At the same time, with the cooperation of the screw ring, the stop seat and the fitting ring, the adjusted angle can be stably fixed, avoiding excessive traction or force on the epicondyle of the humerus due to unintended elbow joint movement, effectively reducing irritation to the affected area and providing a stable protective environment for inflammation recovery. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This invention presents a three-dimensional structural diagram of a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material.

[0019] Figure 2 This invention presents a schematic diagram of the bent-state structure of a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material.

[0020] Figure 3 This invention proposes a brace for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material. Figure 2 Another perspective illustration;

[0021] Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material is provided for this invention.

[0022] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the limiting part of a second embodiment of a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material is provided for this invention;

[0023] Figure 6 This invention proposes a brace for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material. Figure 5 Another perspective illustration;

[0024] Figure 7 This invention proposes a brace for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material. Figure 5 Partial disassembly diagram;

[0025] Figure 8 This invention proposes a brace for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material. Figure 7 Another perspective diagram.

[0026] Legend: 1. Forearm support bracket; 2. Arm support bracket; 3. Arm sleeve; 4. Forearm sleeve; 5. Second protective sleeve; 6. Adjustment part; 61. Rotating shaft; 62. Blocking plate; 63. Snap ring; 64. Rectangular groove; 65. Screw block; 66. Threaded plate; 67. Friction strip; 68. Blocking seat; 69. Tightening ring; 610. Assembly ring; 611. Round hole; 7. First protective sleeve; 8. Limiting groove; 9. Plug; 10. Spreading block. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0028] Example 1: Preparation of antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material.

[0029] This embodiment provides a method for preparing a ternary composite filler consisting of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes, and its antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material.

[0030] First, a ternary composite filler consisting of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes was prepared. 1 g of graphene oxide (5-20 μm in diameter, 1-3 nm in thickness) was weighed and added to 100 mL of deionized water. The mixture was dispersed under ultrasonic conditions at 200 W for 30 min to obtain a uniform graphene oxide dispersion. 0.5 g of silver nitrate was dissolved in 50 mL of deionized water and slowly added dropwise to the graphene oxide dispersion under magnetic stirring. After the addition was complete, stirring was continued for 30 min. The graphene oxide is adsorbed onto the surface of graphene oxide via electrostatic interaction. The mixture is irradiated under a UV lamp (wavelength 254 nm, power 100 W) for 2 h to achieve in-situ reduction using the photocatalytic properties of the graphene oxide. Silver nanoparticles are generated and uniformly loaded on the surface of graphene oxide, with the particle size controlled in the range of 10-50 nm.

[0031] Five g of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (diameter 10-30 nm, length 5-20 μm) were added to 100 mL of a mixed acid solution of concentrated sulfuric acid and concentrated nitric acid in a volume ratio of 3:1. The solution was stirred and refluxed at 60 °C for 4 h to perform carboxylation treatment. After treatment, the nanotubes were repeatedly washed with deionized water until neutral and then vacuum dried to obtain carboxylated carbon nanotubes. The carboxylated carbon nanotubes were dispersed in 100 mL of deionized water and ultrasonically dispersed for 30 min. Then, the aforementioned graphene oxide dispersion loaded with silver nanoparticles was added, and ultrasonic treatment was continued for 1 h to allow the carbon nanotubes to interpenetrate and distribute between the graphene oxide sheets, forming a three-dimensional network structure. The mixed dispersion was pre-frozen at -80 °C for 12 h, and then dried in a freeze dryer for 48 h to obtain a ternary composite filler powder of graphene oxide-silver nanoparticles-carbon nanotubes.

[0032] The structural features of the ternary composite filler are as follows: graphene oxide, as a two-dimensional sheet structure, provides a large specific surface area and sharp nano-edges; silver nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed on the surface of graphene oxide to provide slow-release antibacterial function; and carbon nanotubes, as a one-dimensional nanostructure, interweave with the graphene oxide sheets to construct a three-dimensional thermally conductive network. This three-dimensional network structure effectively reduces the interfacial thermal resistance between fillers, promotes phonon transfer, and achieves efficient heat conduction.

[0033] Next, phase change microcapsules were prepared. Phase change microcapsules were prepared using in-situ polymerization, with n-octadecane (melting point approximately 28℃) and n-eicosane (melting point approximately 36℃) mixed at a mass ratio of 7:3 as the phase change core material, and the phase change temperature adjusted to the range of 32-38℃. 30 g of the phase change core material was added to 200 mL of deionized water containing 2 g of sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, and emulsified at 1000 rpm for 30 min to form a stable emulsion. 10 g of melamine and 20 g of 37% formaldehyde aqueous solution were reacted at 70℃ for 1 h at pH=8.5 to form a prepolymer solution. The prepolymer solution was slowly added to the emulsion, the pH was adjusted to 4.5, and the reaction was carried out at 60℃ for 3 h to complete the wall material polymerization, forming melamine-formaldehyde resin-coated phase change microcapsules. After filtration, washing, and drying, phase change microcapsule powder with an average particle size of 5-30 μm and a latent heat of phase change ≥150 J / g was obtained.

[0034] Finally, antibacterial and thermally conductive composite materials and 3D printing filaments were prepared. Raw materials were weighed according to the following mass ratio: 80 g of polylactic acid (PLA), 10 g of a ternary composite filler consisting of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes (3 g of graphene oxide, 1 g of silver nanoparticles, and 6 g of carbon nanotubes), and 10 g of phase change microcapsules. The PLA granules were dried in a vacuum drying oven at 80℃ for 12 h to remove moisture. The dried PLA, ternary composite filler, and phase change microcapsules were added to a twin-screw extruder. The extrusion temperature was set to 170-180℃ and the screw speed to 150 rpm. The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material was obtained through melt blending and extrusion. The composite material was granulated and then extruded through a single-screw extruder into 3D printing filaments with a diameter of 1.75 mm, which were then wound for later use.

[0035] Example 2: Performance characterization of antibacterial and thermally conductive composite materials.

[0036] The performance of the antibacterial thermally conductive composite material prepared in Example 1 was tested.

[0037] The thermal conductivity of the composite material was tested using the laser flare method (LFA) at 25℃. The sample size was φ12.7mm × 2mm. The test results showed that the thermal conductivity of pure polylactic acid was 0.13 W·m. -1 ·K -1The thermal conductivity increased to 0.58 W·m after adding 6 wt% carbon nanotubes. -1 ·K -1 The thermal conductivity increased to 0.45 W·m after adding 3 wt% graphene oxide. -1 ·K -1 The ternary composite filler of this invention (containing 3 wt% graphene oxide + 1 wt% silver nanoparticles + 6 wt% carbon nanotubes) enables the composite material to achieve a thermal conductivity of 2.35 W·m. -1 ·K -1 It is about 18 times better than pure polylactic acid and 3-5 times better than a single filler system, which fully demonstrates the synergistic effect of carbon nanotubes interspersed with graphene oxide sheets to form a three-dimensional thermally conductive network.

[0038] The phase change characteristics of the phase change microcapsules were tested using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at a heating / cooling rate of 5℃ / min. The results showed that the phase change initiation temperature was 32℃, the peak phase change temperature was 35℃, the phase change termination temperature was 38℃, and the latent heat of phase change was 158 J / g, meeting the heat storage and uniform temperature requirements within the human comfort temperature range. The composite material containing 10 wt% phase change microcapsules had a heat storage capacity of approximately 15.8 J / g under a constant temperature condition of 35℃, effectively buffering temperature fluctuations.

[0039] The antibacterial properties of the composite material were tested according to GB / T 31402-2015 "Test Method for Antibacterial Properties of Plastic Surfaces". Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739) were selected as test strains, and the bacterial concentration was adjusted to [specific concentration not specified]. CFU / mL, 0.1 mL of bacterial suspension was added dropwise to the sample surface (50 mm × 50 mm × 2 mm), and the viable count was determined after incubation at 35℃ for 24 h. The test results showed that the viable count of Staphylococcus aureus in the pure polylactic acid control group was [missing value]. CFU, viable E. coli count: CFU; The viable count of Staphylococcus aureus in the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material of this invention is reduced to... CFU, with an antibacterial rate of 95.5%, reduced the number of viable E. coli to [a certain level]. CFU achieved an antibacterial rate of 97.1%, which is significantly higher than that of single graphene oxide filler (antibacterial rate of about 80%) or single silver nanoparticle filler (antibacterial rate of about 85%), confirming the effectiveness of the triple synergistic antibacterial mechanism.

[0040] The mechanical properties of the composite material were tested using a universal testing machine at a tensile rate of 5 mm / min. The specimens were dumbbell-shaped standard specimens. The test results showed that the composite material had a tensile strength of 38.5 MPa, an elastic modulus of 2.8 GPa, and an elongation at break of 4.2%. While these values ​​were lower than those of pure polylactic acid (tensile strength 45 MPa, elastic modulus 3.0 GPa, elongation at break 5.5%), they still met the requirements for protective gear use. Furthermore, the composite material had a flexural modulus of 3.5 GPa, indicating sufficient rigidity to provide elbow joint support.

[0041] The flow properties of the composite material were tested using a melt flow indexer at a temperature of 190℃ and a load of 2.16 kg. The test results showed that the melt flow index of the composite material was 8.5 g / 10min, which meets the flowability requirements of FDM 3D printing (typically 5-15 g / 10min).

[0042] Example 3: Protective Gear Structural Design and Assembly

[0043] like Figure 1-4 As shown, this embodiment provides a brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, including a forearm support 1, an upper arm support 2, an adjustment part 6, an upper arm sleeve 3, and a forearm sleeve 4. The forearm support 1 is positioned to correspond to the human forearm, and the upper arm support 2 is positioned to correspond to the human upper arm. The proximal end of the forearm support 1 and the distal end of the upper arm support 2 are arranged opposite each other along the rotation axis of the human elbow joint. The adjustment part 6 is assembled between the forearm support 1 and the upper arm support 2 and corresponds to the position of the human elbow joint.

[0044] The upper arm sleeve 3 is fixed along the length of the upper arm support 2 to the inner wall of the upper arm support 2 facing the upper arm. The forearm sleeve 4 is fixed along the length of the forearm support 1 to the inner wall of the forearm support 1 facing the forearm. When in use, the upper arm of the human body enters from the proximal end of the upper arm sleeve 3 and exits from the distal end, and the forearm of the human body enters from the proximal end of the forearm sleeve 4 and exits from the distal end. The entire protective gear fits the arm and provides support for the elbow joint.

[0045] Both the upper arm sleeve 3 and the forearm sleeve 4 are integrally formed using the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material prepared in Example 1 via FDM 3D printing. The 3D printing parameters were set as follows: nozzle temperature 195℃, heated bed temperature 60℃, printing speed 40 mm / s, layer height 0.2 mm, infill rate 30%, and the infill pattern being a triangular hollow structure. The hollow structure is evenly distributed along the length of the sleeve, with the hollow area accounting for 35-45% of the total sidewall area. The hollow holes are triangular or rhomboid in shape, with a side length of 8-15 mm. The hollow structure design reduces the overall weight of the protective gear (approximately 60% lighter than a solid structure) and enhances air circulation between the arm skin and the outside environment. Combined with the high thermal conductivity of the composite material, this effectively avoids the stuffiness that occurs during prolonged wear.

[0046] The upper arm sleeve 3 has a through notch along its length, extending radially. The notch is 15-25 mm wide and has rounded edges with a radius of 3-5 mm to prevent chafing of the upper arm skin during wear. During assembly, the upper arm sleeve 3 can be elastically pried open along the notch to allow the upper arm to be inserted into the inner cavity of the sleeve 3. After release, the upper arm sleeve 3 returns to its original position and provides a wrapping and clamping effect on the upper arm due to the elasticity of the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material (flexural modulus 3.5 GPa provides moderate rebound force). This side-opening design facilitates one-handed operation and allows patients to wear the sleeve independently.

[0047] This protective gear also includes a first protective sleeve 7 and a second protective sleeve 5. The first protective sleeve 7 is a rigid or semi-rigid structure, made of injection-molded polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS) material, with a wall thickness of 1.5-2.5 mm. It is embedded in the outer wall of the upper arm sleeve 3 along the circumference of the upper arm sleeve 3, and the position of the first protective sleeve 7 corresponds to the muscle attachment area of ​​the upper arm near the elbow joint (i.e., 2-5 cm above the lateral or medial epicondyle of the humerus), providing additional protection and support for the inflamed area.

[0048] The inner wall of the first protective sleeve 7 has a Velcro backing for removable and attachable far-infrared heating pads. The heating surface of the far-infrared heating pad faces the upper arm skin, with a heating power of 2-5 W, a constant temperature of 38-42℃, and a far-infrared wavelength of 8-14 μm. This far-infrared wavelength matches the vibrational frequency of water molecules in human cells, producing a resonant absorption effect that promotes local blood circulation and metabolism. Because the upper arm sleeve 3 is made of a high thermal conductivity composite material (thermal conductivity 2.35 W·m...),... -1 ·K -1 The heat generated by the far-infrared warming patch can be quickly conducted to the inflamed area. At the same time, the phase change microcapsules absorb latent heat when the temperature exceeds 35℃ to prevent local overheating. When the heat is conducted to the surrounding area and the temperature drops, the latent heat is released to maintain a stable temperature. This ensures that the temperature distribution on the entire surface of the protective cover is uniform, and the temperature difference is controlled within ±2℃, achieving a safe, uniform, and continuous heat therapy effect.

[0049] The second protective sleeve 5 has a mesh-like breathable structure and is made of elastic mesh material (such as polyester or nylon mesh with a mesh size of 2-5 mm). It is positioned in the forearm area near the wrist. The second protective sleeve 5 is detachably mounted on the outer wall of the forearm sleeve 4 via a limiting part, which includes a limiting groove 8, a plug 9, and a spreading block 10.

[0050] The limiting groove 8 is formed on the outer side wall of the forearm sheath 4 along the length direction of the forearm sheath 4. The limiting groove 8 has a U-shaped cross section and the groove opening faces the side away from the forearm. The groove width is 5-8 mm and the groove depth is 8-12 mm. When assembling the second protective sleeve 5, firstly, insert the edge of the second protective sleeve 5 into the groove along the length of the limiting groove 8 so that the edge fits against the groove wall of the limiting groove 8; then, push the plug 9 into the groove along the length of the limiting groove 8. The plug 9 is a long strip structure made of rubber or silicone, with a circular or elliptical cross-section and a diameter slightly smaller than the width of the limiting groove 8. The outer peripheral wall of the plug 9 fits tightly against the groove wall of the limiting groove 8, and the edge of the second protective sleeve 5 wraps around the outer periphery of the plug 9; finally, insert the spreading block 10 radially into the end of the limiting groove 8. The spreading block 10 is a wedge-shaped structure, and its outer wall abuts against the groove wall of the limiting groove 8 and the end face of the plug 9, thus securing the plug 9 in the limiting groove 8 to fix the second protective sleeve 5. This positioning structure allows for quick assembly and disassembly of the second protective sleeve 5, facilitating cleaning and replacement.

[0051] Example 4: Detailed structure of the adjustment section.

[0052] Based on Example 3, such as Figure 5-8 As shown, the adjustment part 6 includes a rotating shaft 61, a retaining ring 63, an assembly ring 610, and a blocking plate 62.

[0053] The pivot 61 is positioned perpendicular to the plane of elbow joint rotation, and its lower end is integrally formed with a retaining ring 63 with a diameter larger than that of the pivot 61. The pivot 61 has a diameter of 12-18 mm and a length of 15-25 mm, and is injection molded from high-strength polycarbonate (PC) or polyoxymethylene (POM). The retaining ring 63 has an outer diameter of 18-28 mm and a height of 5-10 mm. The outer peripheral wall of the retaining ring 63 has a slight taper (taper angle 2-5°) to facilitate positioning and engagement during assembly.

[0054] The upper end face of the forearm support 1 has a circular hole 611 that matches the retaining ring 63. The axis of the circular hole 611 coincides with the axis of the rotating shaft 61. The inner diameter of the circular hole 611 matches the outer diameter of the retaining ring 63 (interference fit or clearance fit), and the hole depth is approximately equal to the height of the retaining ring 63. The retaining ring 63 is inserted into and locked into the circular hole 611 from the upper end. After locking, the rotating shaft 61 can rotate around its own axis within the circular hole 611, thereby adjusting the relative angle between the upper arm support 2 and the forearm support 1.

[0055] The assembly ring 610 is coaxially sleeved on the outer circumference of the rotating shaft 61. The inner sidewall of the assembly ring 610 is clearance-fitted with the outer sidewall of the rotating shaft 61 (clearance 0.1-0.3 mm), allowing the assembly ring 610 to rotate around the rotating shaft 61. The outer sidewall of the assembly ring 610 is fixedly connected to the lower end face of the upper arm support 2 by screws or integrally injection molded. The outer diameter of the assembly ring 610 is 30-45 mm, and the height is 10-15 mm.

[0056] The blocking plate 62 is a circular plate structure, coaxially fixed to the upper end face of the rotating shaft 61 (by ultrasonic welding, screw fixing, or integral molding). The outer diameter of the blocking plate 62 is 3-8 mm larger than the inner diameter of the assembly ring 610, which is used to prevent the assembly ring 610 from detaching upward along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 61. When the upper arm support 2 is subjected to force, it can drive the assembly ring 610 to rotate around the axis of the rotating shaft 61, thereby realizing the relative rotation between the upper arm support 2 and the lower arm support 1.

[0057] The sidewall of the retaining ring 63 has rectangular grooves 64 along its axial direction. Four rectangular grooves 64 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the retaining ring 63 and penetrate both the upper and lower end faces of the retaining ring 63. The width of the rectangular grooves 64 is 2-4 mm, giving the retaining ring 63 radial elastic deformation capability. When assembling the retaining ring 63, pressing the upper end of the retaining ring 63 causes the rectangular grooves 64 to produce radial shrinkage deformation (shrinkage amount 0.5-1.5 mm), facilitating the insertion of the retaining ring 63 into the circular hole 611.

[0058] The retaining ring 63 has an internal thread with a pitch of 1-2 mm. The screw block 65 is screwed into the retaining ring 63 from the upper end of the thread. The screw block 65 is a cylindrical metal part (such as stainless steel or brass), and its outer peripheral wall has an external thread that matches the internal thread of the retaining ring 63. After tightening, the lower end of the screw block 65 abuts against the upper end face of the forearm support 1. The reaction force causes the outer peripheral wall of the retaining ring 63 to expand outward and fit tightly against the inner wall of the circular hole 611, preventing the retaining ring 63 from becoming radially loose in the circular hole 611 and ensuring the rotational stability of the shaft 61.

[0059] The upper surface of the forearm support 1 is provided with multiple friction strips 67, which are made of rubber (Shore hardness 60-80A). These strips are arranged in a circular array (6-12 strips) with the axis of the rotating shaft 61 as the center. Each friction strip 67 extends radially along the forearm support 1, with a width of 3-5 mm and a height of 1-2 mm. An annular rubber pad (1-2 mm thick, Shore hardness 60-80A) is bonded to the lower surface of the assembly ring 610, and the lower surface of the rubber pad is in close contact with the upper surface of the friction strips 67. When the upper arm support 2 drives the assembly ring 610 to rotate, sliding friction (coefficient of friction 0.6-0.9) is generated between the rubber pad and the friction strips 67. This helps to position the relative angle between the upper arm support 2 and the forearm support 1, preventing unexpected rotation and achieving initial angle adjustment.

[0060] This protective gear also includes a stop seat 68, which is a cylindrical rubber structure (Shore hardness 70-90A), with a diameter of 15-25 mm and a height of 10-20 mm. The lower end face of the stop seat 68 has an axially formed T-slot. The transverse groove width of the T-slot matches the thickness of the stop piece 62 (thickness 2-4 mm, groove width 2.5-5 mm), and the longitudinal groove depth matches the radius of the stop piece 62. During assembly, the edge of the stop piece 62 is slid into the longitudinal groove along the transverse groove of the T-slot, allowing the stop seat 68 and the stop piece 62 to rotate synchronously in the circumference, and the stop seat 68 can move up and down along the axial direction of the stop piece 62. Initially, the lower end face of the stop seat 68 and the upper end face of the mounting ring 610 maintain a clearance fit (clearance 1-3 mm) and do not contact each other.

[0061] This protective gear also includes multiple threaded plates 66 and screw rings 69. The threaded plates 66 are made of metal (such as stainless steel or aluminum alloy) and are arranged in a circular array (4-8 plates) around the axis of the pivot 61 as the center along the upper end face of the forearm support 1. The threaded plates 66 are set perpendicular to the upper end face of the forearm support 1 and have external threads (pitch 1-2 mm) on the outer side wall. The height of the threaded plates 66 is 15-25 mm, the width is 8-12 mm, and the thickness is 1.5-2.5 mm.

[0062] The screw ring 69 is a ring-shaped structure made of metal or high-strength engineering plastic. Its inner wall has an internal thread that matches the external thread of the threaded plate 66. The screw ring 69 is coaxially sleeved on the outer circumference of the threaded plate 66 and threadedly connected to the threaded plate 66. The outer diameter of the screw ring 69 is 50-70 mm, and the height is 15-25 mm. The outer circumferential wall has anti-slip textures to facilitate manual rotation.

[0063] When it is necessary to fix the angle between the upper arm support bracket 2 and the lower arm support bracket 1, rotate the screw ring 69 clockwise. The screw ring 69 will move downward along the axial direction of the threaded plate 66 (moving downward by 1-2 mm per revolution). Its lower end face presses against the upper end face of the stop seat 68. After being compressed, the stop seat 68 moves downward, and its lower end face presses against the upper end face of the assembly ring 610. The friction between the stop seat 68 and the assembly ring 610 (the coefficient of friction between rubber and metal / plastic is 0.5-0.8) restricts the rotation of the assembly ring 610, thereby fixing the relative angle between the lower arm support bracket 1 and the upper arm support bracket 2. The axial clamping force generated by rotating the screw ring 69 can reach 50-200 N, which is sufficient to maintain angle stability during daily use.

[0064] When the screw ring 69 is rotated counterclockwise, it moves upward along the axial direction of the threaded plate 66, releasing the pressure on the stop seat 68. At this time, the relative angle between the forearm support 1 and the upper arm support 2 can be readjusted. This angle adjustment mechanism is easy to operate and can achieve stepless adjustment and arbitrary angle locking within the range of 0-150° without tools.

[0065] Example 5: Comparison of antibacterial and thermal conductivity properties of different formulations.

[0066] In this embodiment, composite materials with different formulations were prepared and their performance was compared to verify the superiority of the ternary composite filler formulation.

[0067] Comparative Example 1: Pure polylactic acid (PLA) without any fillers.

[0068] Comparative Example 2: Polylactic acid + 6 wt% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), without graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles.

[0069] Comparative Example 3: Polylactic acid + 3 wt% graphene oxide (GO), without carbon nanotubes and silver nanoparticles.

[0070] Comparative Example 4: Polylactic acid + 1 wt% silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), without graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes.

[0071] Comparative Example 5: Polylactic acid + 3 wt% graphene oxide + 1 wt% silver nanoparticles, without carbon nanotubes, the graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles are physically blended and not in situ loaded.

[0072] Example 5-1: Polylactic acid + 2 wt% graphene oxide + 0.5 wt% silver nanoparticles + 4 wt% carbon nanotubes + 8 wt% phase change microcapsules (low filler content formulation).

[0073] Example 5-2: Polylactic acid + 3 wt% graphene oxide + 1 wt% silver nanoparticles + 6 wt% carbon nanotubes + 10 wt% phase change microcapsules (medium filling amount formulation, i.e. Example 1).

[0074] Example 5-3: Polylactic acid + 5 wt% graphene oxide + 2 wt% silver nanoparticles + 10 wt% carbon nanotubes + 15 wt% phase change microcapsules (high filling amount formulation).

[0075] The performance test results of each formulation are shown in the table below:

[0076] formula <![CDATA[Thermal conductivity (W·m -1 ·K -1 )]]> Antibacterial rate - Staphylococcus aureus (%) Antibacterial rate - Escherichia coli (%) Tensile strength (MPa) Melt index (g / 10min) Comparative Example 1 0.13 0 0 45.0 12.5 Comparative Example 2 0.58 15 12 42.0 10.0 Comparative Example 3 0.45 78 75 40.5 11.0 Comparative Example 4 0.14 82 80 43.5 12.0 Comparative Example 5 0.85 88 85 39.0 9.5 Example 5-1 1.55 92 90 40.0 9.0 Example 5-2 2.35 95.5 97.1 38.5 8.5 Example 5-3 3.80 98 98.5 32.0 5.5

[0077] As can be seen from the table above:

[0078] First, a single filler system (Comparative Examples 2-4) cannot simultaneously achieve the dual goals of high thermal conductivity and high antibacterial activity. Carbon nanotubes can improve thermal conductivity but have poor antibacterial effects, graphene oxide has good antibacterial effects but limited improvement in thermal conductivity, and silver nanoparticles have good antibacterial effects but hardly improve thermal conductivity.

[0079] Second, Comparative Example 5 used a physical blend of graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles. Although the antibacterial rate was improved, the thermal conductivity was only 0.85 W·m due to the lack of carbon nanotubes to construct a three-dimensional thermally conductive network. -1 ·K -1 This is far lower than that of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0080] Third, the ternary composite filler formulations in Examples 5-1 to 5-3 of this invention form a three-dimensional thermally conductive network by interspersing carbon nanotubes with graphene oxide sheets, which significantly improves thermal conductivity; at the same time, the in-situ loading of silver nanoparticles on graphene oxide enhances the sustained-release stability and antibacterial durability of silver ions, and the triple synergistic antibacterial mechanism makes the antibacterial rate exceed 90%.

[0081] Fourth, Example 5-2 (medium filler formulation) exhibits the best overall performance, with a thermal conductivity of 2.35 W·m. -1 ·K -1 It meets the requirements for rapid heat dissipation, has an antibacterial rate of ≥95% to meet the hygiene and safety requirements for long-term wear, and has a tensile strength of 38.5 MPa and a melt flow index of 8.5 g / 10min to meet the requirements for structural strength and 3D printing processability of protective gear.

[0082] Fifth, although Example 5-3 (high filler content formulation) has higher thermal conductivity and antibacterial rate, its tensile strength decreases to 32MPa and melt index decreases to 5.5 g / 10min, which may lead to increased brittleness of protective gear and difficulty in 3D printing. It is suitable for special application scenarios with extremely high requirements for thermal conductivity and low requirements for mechanical properties.

[0083] Example 6: Verification of the uniform temperature effect of thermotherapy.

[0084] In this embodiment, an infrared thermal imager was used to verify the thermotherapy uniformity effect of the protective gear. The antibacterial thermally conductive composite protective gear (containing 10 wt% phase change microcapsules) prepared in Example 1 was compared with the pure polylactic acid protective gear in Comparative Example 1.

[0085] An infrared warming patch (3 W heating power, set temperature 40℃) was attached to the inside of the first protective sleeve 7 of the upper arm sleeve 3. The protective gear was then worn on a simulated arm (maintained by a constant temperature 37℃ water bath circulation), and the surface temperature distribution of the protective gear was recorded using an infrared thermal imager (resolution 0.05℃).

[0086] Test results showed that the temperature of the pure polylactic acid protective gear reached 45-48℃ in the area directly above the far-infrared heating patch (30 mm in diameter), posing a risk of low-temperature burns; while the temperature at a distance of 50 mm from the heating element was only 34-36℃, which did not reach the effective heat therapy temperature (38-42℃); the temperature difference (the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures) on the entire protective cover was extremely large, reaching 12-15℃, and the temperature distribution was extremely uneven.

[0087] The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material protective gear of this invention maintains a stable temperature of 38-40℃ in the area directly above the far-infrared warming patch. The phase change microcapsules absorb latent heat when the temperature exceeds 35℃, effectively suppressing local overheating. Meanwhile, the temperature reaches 37-39℃ at a distance of 50 mm from the heating element, and the highly thermally conductive filler quickly conducts heat to the surrounding area. The temperature difference across the entire protective sleeve surface is only 3-4℃ (the actual fluctuation range after considering the temperature uniformity of the phase change microcapsules is ±1.5-2℃), resulting in a uniform temperature distribution.

[0088] In a test involving continuous heating for 2 hours, the surface temperature of the protective gear of the present invention remained stable within the range of 37-40℃, with a temperature fluctuation of less than ±1.5℃. This demonstrates that the heat storage and temperature equalization function of the phase change microcapsules and the rapid heat conduction function of the high thermal conductivity filler work synergistically to achieve a safe, uniform, and continuous thermotherapy effect, effectively promoting blood circulation and metabolism at the inflamed site and accelerating recovery.

[0089] Example 7: Long-term wearing comfort and antibacterial durability test.

[0090] This embodiment tests the comfort and antibacterial durability of the protective gear under simulated long-term wear.

[0091] The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material protective gear of the present invention and the pure polylactic acid protective gear of Comparative Example 1 were worn on the arms of volunteers (room temperature 25°C, relative humidity 50%). Each time, they were worn continuously for 4 hours, and the subjective comfort score of the wearer (1-10 points, 10 points is the most comfortable) and the inner surface temperature of the protective gear were recorded.

[0092] Test results showed that the inner surface temperature of pure polylactic acid protective gear rose to 34°C after 1 hour of wear, 36°C after 2 hours, and 37.5°C after 4 hours. Wearers generally reported feeling stuffy and uncomfortable, with an average comfort score of 4.2. The inner surface temperature of the protective gear of the present invention stabilized at 32-33°C after 4 hours of wear, close to the balance point between room temperature and body temperature. The average comfort score of wearers was 7.8, which was significantly better than the control group.

[0093] The antibacterial durability of the protective gear was evaluated using an accelerated aging test (30 days at 60℃ and 90% relative humidity, equivalent to approximately one year of conventional use). The results after aging showed that the antibacterial rate against Staphylococcus aureus decreased from 95.5% to 88.2%, and the antibacterial rate against Escherichia coli decreased from 97.1% to 90.5%, while still maintaining high antibacterial activity. This is attributed to the fact that the physical antibacterial mechanism of graphene oxide is unaffected by aging, the silver nanoparticles are protected by the graphene oxide sheets, slowing down oxidation and aggregation, and the melamine-formaldehyde resin wall material of the phase change microcapsules provides good encapsulation stability.

[0094] Example 8: How to use protective gear.

[0095] In use, first pry the upper arm sleeve 3 open to both sides along the notch, insert the upper arm into the inner cavity of the upper arm sleeve 3 through the notch, and after releasing, the upper arm sleeve 3 will return to its original position and wrap around and hold the upper arm by its own elasticity. At the same time, insert the forearm into the proximal end of the forearm sleeve 4 and out the distal end, so that the forearm support 1 fits against the forearm and the upper arm support 2 fits against the upper arm. The adjustment part 6 provides support for the elbow joint at the corresponding elbow joint position.

[0096] For heat therapy on the upper arm near the elbow joint, the far-infrared heating patch can be attached to the inner wall of the first protective sleeve 7 using Velcro, with its heating surface facing the upper arm skin for constant temperature heating. The heat generated by the far-infrared heating patch is quickly and evenly conducted to the entire sleeve area through the highly thermally conductive composite material. The phase change microcapsules absorb latent heat to prevent local overheating when the temperature exceeds the phase change point, and release latent heat to maintain temperature stability when the temperature drops, achieving uniform heat therapy within the range of 38-42℃. The far-infrared heating patch can be removed and replaced as needed. It is generally recommended to use it for 20-30 minutes each time, 2-3 times a day.

[0097] The second protective sleeve 5 is fixed to the forearm sleeve 4 by a limiting part. Its mesh structure can enhance the breathability of the area near the wrist of the forearm and avoid stuffiness caused by prolonged wear. The second protective sleeve 5 can be disassembled and cleaned regularly according to the degree of contamination. It is recommended to clean it 1-2 times a week.

[0098] When it is necessary to adjust the bending angle of the elbow joint, first rotate the screw ring 69 counterclockwise to release the angle lock. At this time, directly push the upper arm or forearm. The upper arm support 2 will drive the assembly ring 610 to rotate around the axis of the pivot 61. The rubber pad on the lower end of the assembly ring 610 slides relative to the friction strip 67 on the forearm support 1. The sliding friction between the friction strip 67 and the rubber pad can prevent the angle from changing unexpectedly, making it easy for the user to adjust to a comfortable angle.

[0099] After the angle adjustment is completed, rotate the screw ring 69 clockwise. The screw ring 69 moves downward along the axial direction of the threaded plate 66 and presses the blocking seat 68. After being pressed, the blocking seat 68 moves downward and presses the assembly ring 610. The friction between the blocking seat 68 and the assembly ring 610 restricts the rotation of the assembly ring 610, thereby fixing the relative angle between the forearm support 1 and the upper arm support 2, ensuring that the protective gear maintains stable support during use.

[0100] Recommended wearing posture: During daily activities, adjust the elbow joint angle to 90-120°, allowing moderate movement while limiting overextension; during rest, adjust the angle to 120-150° to relax the muscles; during light rehabilitation training, slowly adjust within the range of 30-150° to restore joint mobility. The entire angle adjustment and locking process requires no tools and can be operated with one hand, making it easy for patients to use independently.

[0101] The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material of this invention provides a brace for epicondylar inflammation of the humerus. Through the synergistic combination of material innovation and structural design, it achieves an organic unity of multiple technical effects.

[0102] At the materials level, the synergistic mechanism of the graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle-carbon nanotube ternary composite filler is as follows: Carbon nanotubes, as one-dimensional nanostructures, are interspersed between the two-dimensional sheets of graphene oxide, constructing a three-dimensional interconnected thermally conductive network. This effectively reduces the interfacial thermal resistance between the fillers, allowing phonons to be efficiently transmitted along the continuous path of carbon nanotube-graphene oxide-carbon nanotube, increasing the thermal conductivity of the composite material to more than 18 times that of pure polylactic acid. The silver nanoparticles, grown in situ on the graphene oxide surface, are uniformly distributed and have controllable particle size. A stable interfacial bond is formed between the silver nanoparticles and graphene oxide, slowing down the aggregation and oxidation of the silver nanoparticles and extending the thermal conductivity. The sustained-release cycle endows the material with long-lasting antibacterial activity; a triple antibacterial mechanism (physical puncture by graphene oxide nano-edges, ... The synergistic effect of binding with bacterial sulfhydryl groups to inhibit metabolism and photocatalysis to generate ROS-induced oxidative stress results in a significantly higher antibacterial rate than a single filler system. The phase change microcapsules absorb / release latent heat in the phase change temperature range (32-38℃), which plays a role in heat buffering and temperature equalization. Combined with the rapid heat conduction of the high thermal conductivity filler, it achieves a uniform distribution of thermotherapy temperature.

[0103] Structurally, the forearm support and upper arm support achieve relative rotation through the rotating shaft-locking ring-assembly ring mechanism of the adjustment section. Combined with the initial positioning of the friction strip-rubber pad and the pressing and locking of the screw ring-stop seat, it provides stepless adjustment within the range of 0-150° and arbitrary angle locking function. The 3D printed hollow structure reduces weight and enhances breathability while ensuring the rigidity of the protective gear. The side-opening upper arm sleeve is easy to wear. The detachable first protective sleeve and second protective sleeve can be customized to achieve heat therapy function and breathability function, respectively.

[0104] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention fundamentally solves the technical problems of poor thermal conductivity, lack of antibacterial function and uneven thermotherapy temperature of traditional protective gear through the integrated design of materials, structure and function, and provides patients with epicondylitis of the humerus with a comfortable, safe and effective rehabilitation aid.

[0105] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention through specific circumstances.

[0106] The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art can make various equivalent changes or substitutions based on the technical solutions of the present invention, and all such changes or substitutions should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on an antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, comprising a forearm support (1) and an upper arm support (2), characterized in that: The forearm support (1) and upper arm support (2) are rotatably connected by an adjustment part (6). An upper arm sleeve (3) is installed on the upper arm support (2), and a forearm sleeve (4) is installed on the forearm support (1). The arm passes through the upper arm sleeve (3) and through the forearm sleeve (4). The adjustment part (6) is located at the elbow joint. Both the upper arm sleeve (3) and the forearm sleeve (4) are made of antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material, integrally formed by 3D printing to create a hollow structure. The antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material includes polyurethane foam. The invention comprises a lactic acid matrix, a ternary composite filler consisting of graphene oxide, silver nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes dispersed within the polylactic acid matrix, and phase change microcapsules. In the graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle-carbon nanotube ternary composite filler, silver nanoparticles are loaded onto the surface of the graphene oxide, and carbon nanotubes are interspersed between the graphene oxide sheets to form a three-dimensional thermally conductive network. The core material of the phase change microcapsules is an organic phase change material with a phase change temperature of 32-38℃, and the wall material is melamine-formaldehyde resin. The thermal conductivity of the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material is 1.5-4.0 W·m. -1 ·K -1 It has an antibacterial rate of ≥95% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

2. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 1, characterized in that: The preparation method of the graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle-carbon nanotube ternary composite filler is as follows: graphene oxide is dispersed in deionized water to form a dispersion, silver nitrate solution is added, and silver nanoparticles are generated in situ under ultraviolet light irradiation. Then, carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes are added, and the mixture is ultrasonically dispersed and freeze-dried to obtain the ternary composite filler. The particle size of the silver nanoparticles is 10-50 nm, and the diameter of the carbon nanotubes is 10-30 nm and the length is 5-20 μm.

3. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 2, characterized in that: Based on the total mass of the antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material as 100%, the content of graphene oxide is 1-5 wt%, the content of silver nanoparticles is 0.5-2 wt%, the content of carbon nanotubes is 3-10 wt%, the content of phase change microcapsules is 5-15 wt%, and the balance is polylactic acid matrix.

4. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper arm sheath (3) has a through notch on its side along its length direction. The edge of the notch has a rounded transition. During assembly, the upper arm sheath (3) can be elastically pried open to both sides along the notch so that the upper arm can be inserted into the inner cavity of the upper arm sheath (3) from the notch.

5. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 4, characterized in that: It also includes a first protective sleeve (7) and a second protective sleeve (5). The first protective sleeve (7) is embedded in the outer wall of the upper arm sleeve (3) along the circumference of the upper arm sleeve (3), and the position of the first protective sleeve (7) corresponds to the muscle attachment area of ​​the upper arm near the elbow joint. The inner wall of the first protective sleeve (7) is detachably pasted with a far-infrared warming patch. The heating surface of the far-infrared warming patch faces the skin of the upper arm and is used to heat the corresponding area of ​​the upper arm at a constant temperature. The second protective sleeve (5) is a mesh breathable structure, which is set in the forearm area near the wrist of the forearm and is detachably assembled to the outer wall of the forearm sleeve (4) through the limiting part.

6. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 5, characterized in that: The limiting part includes a limiting groove (8), a plug (9) and a spreading block (10). The limiting groove (8) is opened on the outer side wall of the forearm sleeve (4) along the length direction of the forearm sleeve (4). The limiting groove (8) has a U-shaped cross section and the groove opening faces away from the forearm. When assembling the second protective sleeve (5), the edge of the second protective sleeve (5) is first embedded into the groove along the length direction of the limiting groove (8), and then the plug (9) is pushed into the groove along the length direction of the limiting groove (8) so that the edge of the second protective sleeve (5) wraps around the outer periphery of the plug (9). Finally, the spreading block (10) is inserted into the end of the limiting groove (8) along the radial direction of the limiting groove (8) to lock the plug (9).

7. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment part (6) includes a rotating shaft (61), a retaining ring (63), an assembly ring (610), and a blocking plate (62). The rotating shaft (61) is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the plane of elbow joint rotation. The lower end of the shaft has a retaining ring (63) with a diameter larger than that of the rotating shaft (61). The upper end face of the forearm support (1) has a round hole (611) that matches the retaining ring (63). The retaining ring (63) is inserted into the round hole (611) from the upper end and is locked in the round hole (611) so that the rotating shaft (61) can rotate around its own axis. The assembly ring (610) is coaxially sleeved on the outer circumference of the rotating shaft (61), and the outer side wall of the assembly ring (610) is fixedly connected to the lower end face of the upper arm support (2). The blocking plate (62) is coaxially fixed on the upper end face of the rotating shaft (61), and the outer diameter of the blocking plate (62) is larger than the inner diameter of the assembly ring (610).

8. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 7, characterized in that: The sidewall of the retaining ring (63) has a rectangular groove (64) along its axial direction. There are four rectangular grooves (64) evenly distributed around the circumference of the retaining ring (63) and the rectangular grooves (64) penetrate the upper and lower end faces of the retaining ring (63). The retaining ring (63) has an internal thread. The screw block (65) is screwed into the inside of the retaining ring (63) from the upper end of the thread. After tightening, the lower end of the screw block (65) abuts against the upper end face of the forearm support (1), causing the outer peripheral wall of the retaining ring (63) to expand outward and fit tightly against the inner wall of the round hole (611).

9. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 8, characterized in that: The upper end face of the forearm support (1) is provided with multiple friction strips (67). The friction strips (67) are made of rubber and are arranged in a circular array with the axis of the rotating shaft (61) as the center. The lower end face of the assembly ring (610) is bonded with an annular rubber pad. The lower end face of the rubber pad is in close contact with the upper end face of the friction strips (67). It also includes a blocking seat (68). The blocking seat (68) is a cylindrical rubber structure. Its lower end face is provided with a T-shaped groove along the axial direction. The edge of the blocking piece (62) slides into the longitudinal groove along the transverse groove of the T-shaped groove.

10. The brace for epicondylitis of the humerus based on antibacterial and thermally conductive composite material according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes multiple threaded plates (66) and a screw ring (69). The threaded plates (66) are made of metal and are arranged in a circular array around the axis of the rotating shaft (61) on the upper end face of the forearm support (1). The threaded plates (66) are set perpendicular to the upper end face of the forearm support (1) and have external threads on their outer side walls. The inner side wall of the screw ring (69) has internal threads that are adapted to the external threads of the threaded plates (66). The screw ring (69) is coaxially sleeved on the outer circumference of the threaded plates (66) and threadedly connected to the threaded plates (66). Rotating the screw ring (69) clockwise causes it to move downward along the axial direction of the threaded plates (66) to press the blocking seat (68). After being pressed, the blocking seat (68) moves downward to press the upper end face of the assembly ring (610) to fix the relative angle between the forearm support (1) and the upper arm support (2).

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