A steplessly adjustable hinge device for knee orthotics and a knee-ankle-foot orthosis

Abstract

This invention relates to a steplessly adjustable hinge device for knee joint orthotics and a knee-ankle-foot orthosis. The device includes a first connecting member, a second connecting member, a linkage member, and a limiting assembly. The first connecting member connects to the thigh support, and the second connecting member connects to the lower leg support; the second connecting member is hinged to the first connecting member. The linkage member is mounted on the second connecting member and rotates in sync with it. The limiting assembly is mounted on the first connecting member and includes a baffle positioned along the rotation path of the linkage member. The limiting assembly also includes an adjusting member that adjusts the vertical height of the baffle. Compared to existing technologies, this device, by manipulating the adjusting member to adjust the height of the baffle, achieves adaptive stepless adjustment of the bending angle of the second connecting member, offering advantages such as high adjustment stability and ease of adjustment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical rehabilitation equipment technology, and in particular to a stepless adjustable hinge device for knee joint orthotics and a knee-ankle-foot orthosis. Background Technology

[0002] Hemiplegia caused by stroke is a key factor leading to motor dysfunction in patients, with impaired knee joint control severely affecting walking function and significantly increasing the risk of falls. While traditional knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) are widely used in stroke rehabilitation, their design has significant limitations: they typically employ fixed or limited-angle adjustment modes, locking the knee joint in an extended position. This rigid fixation forces patients to rely on compensatory movements such as hip swinging using the abdominal, back, and iliopsoas muscles to swing their lower limbs, resulting in an abnormal gait.

[0003] Studies have shown that this design not only offers little help in restoring muscle strength in key lower limb muscle groups and contributes only slightly to promoting neural plasticity and reconstructing normal walking function, but also additionally increases the cardiopulmonary metabolic load on patients while walking. However, stroke rehabilitation itself has phased requirements—in the early rehabilitation phase, it is necessary to restrict knee joint movement to provide necessary stability support; while in the mid-to-late rehabilitation phase, it is necessary to gradually increase the range of motion of the joint to stimulate functional recovery. Unfortunately, existing adjustable KAFO designs generally suffer from problems such as complex operation, insufficient adjustment precision, and poor comfort, making it difficult to meet these dynamically changing, phased rehabilitation needs, thus severely limiting their effective application in clinical practice. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a stepless adjustable hinge device and a knee-ankle-foot orthosis for knee joint orthotics. Users can adaptively and steplessly adjust the bending angle of the device according to actual needs, which has the advantages of high adjustment stability and ease of adjustment.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A steplessly adjustable hinge device for knee orthotics, comprising:

[0007] The first connector is used to connect the thigh support bar;

[0008] The second connector is used to connect the lower leg support bar, and the second connector is hinged to the first connector;

[0009] A linkage component, wherein the linkage component is disposed on the second connecting component and rotates at the same frequency as the second connecting component; and

[0010] A limiting component is provided on the first connecting member. The limiting component includes a baffle that is located on the rotation path of the linkage member. The limiting component also includes an adjusting member that adjusts the vertical height of the baffle.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the limiting component further includes a fixing member disposed on the first connecting member;

[0012] The baffle is vertically slidably connected to the fixing member, and an adjusting column is threadedly connected to the baffle, the adjusting column being rotatably connected to the fixing member.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the opposing inner walls of the fixing member are provided with sliding grooves, and the two sides of the baffle are integrally provided with sliders, which are slidably connected into the sliding grooves.

[0014] In one possible implementation, one end of the adjusting column protrudes from the fixing member for external adjustment, and an internal hexagonal hole is provided at the end.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the linkage includes a rod, which is fixedly mounted on the second connector and is perpendicular to the overall length of the second connector, and is parallel to the baffle.

[0016] When the baffle is at its lowest point, the rod body and the baffle are in planar contact.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the linkage includes an eccentric wheel, which is hinged to the second connecting member, and the rotation axis of the eccentric wheel is in the same direction as the rotation axis of the second connecting member.

[0018] One side of the second connector is the knee joint flexion side, and the eccentric wheel is located on the second connector on the side close to the knee joint flexion side;

[0019] The second connecting member has a limiting part. When the baffle is at its lowest position, the top of the eccentric wheel contacts the baffle, and the bottom of the eccentric wheel contacts the limiting part. The baffle restricts the rotation of the eccentric wheel.

[0020] In one possible implementation, a torsion spring is provided on the shaft of the eccentric wheel, and the elastic force of the torsion spring drives the eccentric wheel to press tightly against the limiting part.

[0021] In one possible implementation, both the limiting part and the bottom of the baffle are provided with a buffer pad.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first connector has a first positioning part, and the second connector has a second positioning part;

[0023] When the first connector and the second connector are in a vertical position, the first positioning part contacts the second positioning part to restrict the second connector from rotating away from the knee joint.

[0024] The present invention also provides a knee-ankle-foot orthosis, including the stepless adjustable hinge device described above, wherein the first connector is connected to the thigh support bar and the second connector is connected to the calf support bar.

[0025] The present invention has the following advantages due to the adoption of the above technical solutions:

[0026] 1. By adjusting the vertical height of the baffle, continuous stepless adjustment of the knee joint flexion angle is achieved, overcoming the limitations of the phased adjustment of traditional devices. The baffle height adjustment range covers the entire rotation path of the linkage, allowing for precise setting of any flexion angle according to rehabilitation needs, significantly improving the flexibility and adaptability of adjustment;

[0027] 2. The mechanical structure employs a combination of a threaded adjusting column and a sliding block. Rotating the adjusting column precisely controls the raising and lowering of the baffle, offering simple operation and high stability. An internal hexagonal hole at the end of the adjusting column facilitates adjustment using standard tools.

[0028] 3. Two linkage schemes are provided: either a rod or an eccentric wheel, both of which can achieve synchronous rotation with the second connecting component. The eccentric wheel scheme adds a torsion spring preload to ensure it always fits against the limiting part, preventing shaking and abnormal noise; combined with a buffer pad, it further reduces collision noise and protects the components;

[0029] 4. When the barrier is at its lowest position, it completely restricts knee flexion, meeting the immobilization needs in the early stages of rehabilitation; when adjusted to the highest position, it allows for free movement, suitable for later rehabilitation training; any angle in between can be locked, supporting progressive rehabilitation adjustments.

[0030] 5. The first and second positioning parts are set to prevent the knee joint from hyperextension in the opposite direction, and protective shells are added to the front and back of the hinge to improve overall safety;

[0031] 6. The adjustment process requires no tools for disassembly; the angle can be quickly set using the exposed adjustment column. The "pre-bending + baffle positioning" adjustment logic in the eccentric wheel solution is intuitive and easy to operate, significantly reducing the barrier to entry for users.

[0032] 7. As a core module, it can be integrated into knee-ankle-foot orthoses, providing a standardized and customizable hinge solution for lower limb rehabilitation. Its modular design facilitates maintenance and has high clinical application value. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the stepless adjustable hinge device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the eccentric wheel in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a stepless adjustable hinge device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the protective shell in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the principle structure of a knee-ankle-foot orthosis according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure label:

[0039] 1. First connecting part; 2. Second connecting part; 3. Linkage part; 4. Baffle; 5. Adjusting part; 6. Fixing part; 7. Internal hexagonal hole; 8. Limiting part; 9. First positioning part; 10. Second positioning part; 11. Protective shell; 12. Thigh support bar; 13. Lower leg support bar. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention are described clearly and completely below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this invention shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and similar terms used in this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0042] While traditional knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) are widely used in stroke rehabilitation, their design has significant limitations: they typically employ fixed-angle or limited-angle adjustment modes, locking the knee joint in an extended position. This rigid fixation forces patients to rely on compensatory movements such as hip swinging using their abdominal, back, and iliopsoas muscles when walking, leading to abnormal gait. However, stroke rehabilitation itself has phased needs—in the early stages, knee joint movement needs to be restricted to provide necessary stability support; while in the mid-to-late stages, the range of motion needs to be gradually increased to stimulate functional recovery. Unfortunately, existing adjustable KAFO designs generally suffer from complex operation, insufficient adjustment precision, and poor comfort, making it difficult to meet these dynamically changing, phased rehabilitation needs, thus severely limiting their effective application in clinical practice. To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a stepless adjustable hinge device and a knee-ankle-foot orthosis for knee joint orthotics. Users can adaptively and steplessly adjust the bending angle of the device according to actual needs, which has the advantages of high adjustment stability and ease of adjustment. The technical solution of this invention will be described in detail below with specific examples.

[0043] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the present invention relates to a stepless adjustable hinge device for knee joint orthopedics, comprising a first connector 1, a second connector 2, a linkage 3, and a limiting component. The first connector 1 is used to connect the thigh support bar 12, and the second connector 2 is used to connect the lower leg support bar 13; the second connector 2 is hinged to the first connector 1.

[0044] Linkage component 3 is mounted on the second connecting component 2 and rotates at the same frequency as the second connecting component 2. A limiting component is mounted on the first connecting component 1. The limiting component includes a baffle 4, which is located on the rotation path of the linkage component 3. The limiting component also includes an adjusting component 5, which adjusts the vertical height of the baffle 4.

[0045] It should be noted that in this implementation, the stepless adjustment of the bending angle of the device is mainly achieved by adjusting the height of the baffle 4. Since the linkage 3 and the second connecting member 2 rotate at the same frequency, the linkage 3 will rotate synchronously as the second connecting member 2 rotates. Because the baffle 4 is located on the rotation path of the linkage 3, when the linkage 3 rotates to contact the baffle 4, the baffle 4 will restrict the linkage 3 from continuing to rotate, thus achieving a positioning and limiting effect on the second connecting member 2. Specifically, the linkage 3 has a complete and non-overlapping rotation path as it rotates with the second connecting member 2, and the height adjustment stroke of the baffle 4 includes the entire rotation path. By adjusting the height of the baffle 4, stepless adjustment of the linkage 3 and even the second connecting member 2 is achieved.

[0046] Compared with the prior art, this device can adjust the height of the baffle 4 by controlling the adjustment component 5, thereby achieving adaptive stepless adjustment of the bending angle of the second connecting component 2. It has the advantages of high adjustment stability and easy adjustment.

[0047] In one embodiment, the overall structure of the limiting component is further refined. The limiting component also includes a fixing member 6, which is disposed on the first connecting member 1. The baffle 4 is vertically slidably connected to the fixing member 6, and an adjusting post is threadedly connected to the baffle 4. The adjusting member 5 is specifically an adjusting post, which is rotatably connected to the fixing member 6.

[0048] For example, when it is necessary to adjust the height of the baffle 4, it is necessary to rotate the adjusting column. The rotation of the adjusting column will be converted into the vertical movement of the baffle 4 through the threaded connection, thereby realizing the adjustment of the height of the baffle 4.

[0049] In this embodiment, specifically, grooves are provided on the opposing inner walls of the fixing member 6, and sliders are integrally provided on both sides of the baffle 4, with the sliders sliding into the grooves for connection.

[0050] In this embodiment, more preferably, in order to facilitate the operator to rotate the adjusting column, one end of the adjusting column protrudes from the fixing member 6 for external adjustment, and an internal hexagonal hole 7 is provided at the end.

[0051] For example, in subsequent operations, the adjustment column can be selected and adjusted using a hex wrench.

[0052] In one embodiment, the overall structure of the linkage 3 is further refined. The linkage 3 includes a rod, which is fixedly mounted on the second connector 2. The rod is perpendicular to the overall length of the second connector 2 and parallel to the baffle 4.

[0053] Specifically, when the baffle 4 is at its lowest point, the rod body and the baffle 4 are in planar contact;

[0054] It should be noted that in this embodiment, when the baffle 4 is at its lowest point, the second connecting member 2 and the first connecting member 1 are vertical as a whole, so the wearer's thigh and lower leg are straight. At this time, the baffle 4 is in contact with the rod, and the baffle 4 restricts the bending of the second connecting member 2 through the rod, thereby restricting the bending of the wearer's lower leg. The wearer cannot bend, and the knee joint cannot bend. The current state of the device meets the needs of the early stage of rehabilitation or specific patients.

[0055] When the baffle 4 is adjusted to the highest position, the hinge body is in a completely free state. At this time, the rotation of the second connecting piece 2 is unrestricted, and the knee can bend freely to meet the needs of end-stage rehabilitation or specific patients.

[0056] When it is necessary to adjust the bending restriction of the baffle 4 on the second connecting member 2 according to actual needs, the lower leg can be actively bent first, bending the lower leg part to the required position. Then, the height of the baffle 4 is adjusted so that the baffle 4 contacts the linkage 3, restricting the linkage 3 from bending further. At this time, the maximum bending angle of the second connecting member 2 is adjusted to the required position. During the adjustment process, the vertical movement of the baffle 4 realizes the positioning restriction of the linkage rod, thereby realizing stepless adjustment. Compared with the staged and hierarchical adjustment methods in the prior art, this device has the advantages of higher adjustment stability and higher flexibility.

[0057] In another embodiment, the overall structure of the linkage 3 is further refined. The linkage 3 includes an eccentric wheel, which is hinged to the second connecting member 2, and the rotation axis of the eccentric wheel is in the same direction as the rotation axis of the second connecting member 2. One side of the second connecting member 2 is the knee joint bending side, and the eccentric wheel is located on the side of the second connecting member 2 near the knee joint bending side. The second connecting member 2 has a limiting part 8. When the baffle 4 is at its lowest position, the top of the eccentric wheel contacts the baffle 4, and the bottom of the eccentric wheel contacts the limiting part 8, thus restricting the rotation of the eccentric wheel.

[0058] Reference Figure 2 As shown, specifically, the rotational connection position of the eccentric wheel is located at the upper left of the eccentric wheel, while in this figure, the side of the knee joint that is bent is the right side;

[0059] For example, in this embodiment, when the baffle 4 is at its lowest position, the second connecting member 2 and the first connecting member 1 are vertical as a whole, so the wearer's thigh and lower leg are straight. At this time, the bottom of the eccentric wheel is in contact with the limiting part 8, and the top of the eccentric wheel is in contact with the baffle 4. Therefore, the movement of the two rotation directions of the eccentric wheel is restricted. The baffle 4 restricts the bending of the second connecting member 2 through the eccentric wheel, thereby restricting the bending of the wearer's lower leg. The wearer cannot bend, and the knee joint cannot bend. The current state of the device meets the needs of the early stage of rehabilitation or specific patients.

[0060] When the baffle 4 is adjusted to its highest position, the hinge body is in a completely free state. At this time, the rotation of the second connecting member 2 is unrestricted, and the knee can bend freely, meeting the needs of end-stage rehabilitation or specific patients. Specifically, when the second connecting member 2 bends with the lower leg to its maximum stroke, the top of the eccentric wheel can be designed to contact the baffle 4 or not. In this embodiment, when the eccentric wheel rotates with the second connecting member 2 to its maximum stroke, the top of the eccentric wheel contacts the baffle 4.

[0061] When it is necessary to adjust the bending restriction of the baffle 4 on the second connecting member 2 according to actual needs, the lower leg can be actively bent first, bending the lower leg part to the required position. Then, the height of the baffle 4 is adjusted so that the baffle 4 contacts the eccentric wheel, restricting the eccentric wheel from bending further. At this time, the maximum bending angle of the second connecting member 2 is adjusted to the required position. During the adjustment process, the vertical movement of the baffle 4 achieves the positioning restriction of the eccentric wheel, thereby realizing stepless adjustment.

[0062] In this embodiment, specifically, in order to optimize the stability of the eccentric wheel's movement, a torsion spring is provided on the eccentric wheel's shaft, and the spring force of the torsion spring drives the eccentric wheel to press tightly against the limiting part 8.

[0063] It should be noted that the torsion spring ensures that the bottom of the eccentric wheel is always in contact with the limiting part 8, preventing the rotation of the second connecting part 2 from causing irregular shaking of the eccentric wheel, thereby improving the stability of the device. In addition, the positioning function of the torsion spring can also prevent the eccentric wheel from shaking and causing abnormal noise.

[0064] In this embodiment, it is preferable that, in order to protect the three components, namely the limiting part 8, the baffle 4 and the eccentric wheel, a buffer pad is provided at the bottom of both the limiting part 8 and the baffle 4.

[0065] It should be noted that the cushioning provided by the buffer pad not only protects the parts, but also further prevents abnormal noises caused by the contact and collision of the parts.

[0066] In this embodiment, more preferably, the first connecting member 1 has a first positioning part 9, and the second connecting member 2 has a second positioning part 10. When the first connecting member 1 and the second connecting member 2 are in a vertical state, the first positioning part 9 and the second positioning part 10 are in contact to restrict the second connecting member 2 from rotating away from the knee joint.

[0067] The first positioning part 9 and the second positioning part 10 are designed to prevent the wearer from accidentally bending their knees in the opposite direction, thus providing protection.

[0068] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, more preferably, a protective shell 11 is provided on both the front and back sides at the hinge joint between the first connector 1 and the second connector 2.

[0069] Reference Figure 5 As shown, the present invention also provides a knee-ankle-foot orthosis, including the infinitely adjustable hinge device mentioned in the above scheme, wherein the first connector 1 is connected to the thigh support 12 and the second connector 2 is connected to the calf support 13.

[0070] For example, when wearing and using a knee-ankle-foot orthosis for rehabilitation training, the wearer can make adaptive adjustments to the bending angle of the second connector 2 using the adjustment column according to their own situation;

[0071] When the baffle 4 is at its lowest position, the second connecting member 2 and the first connecting member 1 are vertical as a whole, so the wearer's thigh and lower leg are straight. At this time, the bottom of the eccentric wheel is in contact with the limiting part 8, and the top of the eccentric wheel is in contact with the baffle 4. Therefore, the movement of the two rotation directions of the eccentric wheel is restricted. The baffle 4 restricts the bending of the second connecting member 2 through the eccentric wheel, thereby restricting the bending of the wearer's lower leg. The wearer cannot bend, and the knee joint cannot bend at this time. The current state of the device meets the needs of the early stage of rehabilitation or specific patients.

[0072] When the baffle 4 is adjusted to its highest position, the hinge body is in a completely free state. At this time, the rotation of the second connecting member 2 is unrestricted, and the knee can bend freely, meeting the needs of end-stage rehabilitation or specific patients. Specifically, when the second connecting member 2 bends with the lower leg to its maximum stroke, the top of the eccentric wheel can be designed to contact the baffle 4 or not. In this embodiment, when the eccentric wheel rotates with the second connecting member 2 to its maximum stroke, the top of the eccentric wheel contacts the baffle 4.

[0073] When it is necessary to adjust the bending restriction of the baffle 4 on the second connecting member 2 according to actual needs, the lower leg can be actively bent first, bending the lower leg part to the required position. Then, the height of the baffle 4 is adjusted so that the baffle 4 contacts the eccentric wheel, restricting the eccentric wheel from bending further. At this time, the maximum bending angle of the second connecting member 2 is adjusted to the required position. During the adjustment process, the vertical movement of the baffle 4 achieves the positioning restriction of the eccentric wheel, thereby realizing stepless adjustment.

[0074] Compared with the prior art, this device can adjust the height of the baffle 4 by controlling the adjustment component 5, thereby achieving adaptive stepless adjustment of the bending angle of the second connecting component 2. It has the advantages of high adjustment stability and easy adjustment.

[0075] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steplessly adjustable hinge device for knee joint orthotics, characterized in that, include: The first connector is used to connect the thigh support bar; The second connector is used to connect the lower leg support bar, and the second connector is hinged to the first connector; A linkage component is disposed on the second connecting member and rotates at the same frequency as the second connecting member; the linkage component includes an eccentric wheel, which is hinged to the second connecting member, and the rotation axis of the eccentric wheel is in the same direction as the rotation axis of the second connecting member; one side of the second connecting member is the knee joint bending side, and the eccentric wheel is located on the side of the second connecting member close to the knee joint bending side; the second connecting member has a limiting part. And a limiting component, the limiting component being disposed on the first connecting member, the limiting component including a baffle, the baffle being located on the rotation path of the linkage member, the limiting component also including an adjusting component, the adjusting component adjusting the vertical height of the baffle; When the baffle is at its lowest position, the top of the eccentric wheel contacts the baffle, and the bottom of the eccentric wheel contacts the limiting part, thus restricting the rotation of the eccentric wheel.

2. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting component also includes a fixing member, which is disposed on the first connecting member; The baffle is vertically slidably connected to the fixing member, and an adjusting column is threadedly connected to the baffle, the adjusting column being rotatably connected to the fixing member.

3. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing member has a sliding groove on its opposing inner wall, and the baffle has a slider integrally provided on both sides, which slides into the sliding groove.

4. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to claim 2, characterized in that, One end of the adjusting column protrudes from the fixing member for external adjustment, and an internal hexagonal hole is provided at the end.

5. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The linkage component includes a rod, which is fixedly mounted on the second connector and is perpendicular to the overall length of the second connector. The rod is parallel to the baffle. When the baffle is at its lowest point, the rod body and the baffle are in planar contact.

6. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, A torsion spring is provided on the shaft of the eccentric wheel, and the elastic force of the torsion spring drives the eccentric wheel to press tightly against the limiting part.

7. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Both the limiting part and the bottom of the baffle are provided with buffer pads.

8. The stepless adjustable hinge device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connector has a first positioning part, and the second connector has a second positioning part; When the first connector and the second connector are in a vertical position, the first positioning part contacts the second positioning part to restrict the second connector from rotating away from the knee joint.

9. A knee-ankle-foot orthosis, characterized in that, The device includes the infinitely adjustable hinge device according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the first connecting member is connected to the thigh support bar and the second connecting member is connected to the calf support bar.

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