Joint protection device for children with rheumatic diseases

Abstract

The application relates to the field of medical devices, in particular to a joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic and immunological diseases, which comprises a joint protection sleeve, a plurality of first sliding grooves and a plurality of connecting rods are arranged on the two sides of the joint protection sleeve, the first sliding grooves and the connecting rods are in one-to-one correspondence, when the joint protection sleeve wraps the joint, the connecting rods are inserted into the first sliding grooves, and the connecting rods and the first sliding grooves are in sliding cooperation; the adjusting holes and the anti-occlusion mechanisms are communicated in the first sliding grooves, the opening and closing mechanisms are communicated on the communication paths of the adjusting holes and the first sliding grooves, and the opening and closing mechanisms are used for controlling the on-off of the adjusting holes and the first sliding grooves; the anti-occlusion mechanisms are used for connecting the first sliding grooves with the outside based on the negative pressure size in the first sliding grooves. The application can realize dynamic adaptation and intelligent protection, and reduce the occlusion risk caused by rigid fixation of the device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical devices, specifically to a joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic and immune diseases. Background Technology

[0002] Rheumatic and immunological diseases, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, are among the most common chronic diseases in childhood. A prominent characteristic is joint inflammation, pain, and swelling, which can even lead to structural damage and functional impairment. Joint protection is a core treatment principle in disease management and rehabilitation. Its purpose is to reduce the burden on inflamed joints, alleviate pain, prevent joint deformities, and create a favorable environment for the repair of damaged tissues through appropriate immobilization and support.

[0003] Therefore, various joint protection devices, such as static braces, splints, or fixation sleeves, are often fitted for children in clinical practice. Most of these existing devices are scaled down based on the design concept of adult devices. Their core design logic is to forcibly fix and immobilize the target joint through a rigid or semi-rigid shell and fixation straps.

[0004] Although existing joint protection devices can provide some relief in the short term, their design concept has fundamental limitations and cannot meet the two core dynamic needs of children with rheumatic and immune diseases: continuous physiological growth and fluctuating disease conditions.

[0005] Children are in a rapid growth and development stage, and their limb size and joint proportions change almost every year. Once existing static braces are made, their size and shape remain fixed. After wearing them for several months, children often find the braces too tight, oppressive, or even unusable due to increased height and thicker limbs, leading to a loss of protective effect.

[0006] Rheumatic diseases are characterized by alternating active and remission phases. During the active phase, children often experience significant swelling and effusion in their joints. At this time, the most serious flaw of existing devices becomes apparent: their fixed restraint and rigid shell cannot adaptively adjust to the expansion of swollen tissue. The restraining force originally intended to provide protection is directly transformed into mechanical compression of the swollen joint. This compression not only exacerbates the child's pain and affects local blood circulation, but in severe cases, it can even cause iatrogenic injuries such as skin breakdown, ischemia, or nerve compression, making the treatment tool itself a potential source of risk that worsens the condition.

[0007] Given the shortcomings of existing technologies, there is an urgent need for a new type of joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic and immune diseases. This device should be able to adapt to the child's growth and development over the long term, and intelligently adjust the fixation pressure and space when the condition fluctuates (such as joint swelling). Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides a joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic and immune diseases, enabling dynamic adaptation and intelligent protection, thereby reducing the risk of compression caused by rigid fixation of the device.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: A joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases includes a joint protective sleeve. Several first sliding grooves and several connecting rods are respectively provided on both sides of the joint protective sleeve. Each first sliding groove corresponds to one connecting rod. When the joint protective sleeve covers the joint, the connecting rod is inserted into the first sliding groove, and the connecting rod slides in cooperation with the first sliding groove. Each first sliding groove is connected to an adjustment hole and an anti-compression mechanism. An opening and closing mechanism is connected along the communication path between the adjustment hole and the first sliding groove. The opening and closing mechanism is used to control the connection between the adjustment hole and the first sliding groove. The anti-compression mechanism is used to control the connection between the first sliding groove and the outside world based on the magnitude of the negative pressure within the first sliding groove.

[0010] The technical principles of the above solution are as follows:

[0011] Wrap the joint protector around the child's joint, aligning the connecting rods on both sides and inserting them into the corresponding first sliding grooves. At this point, the opening and closing mechanism is in the open state, and the adjustment hole is connected to the first sliding groove, allowing the connecting rods to slide freely within the first sliding groove. Adjust the position of the connecting rods according to the child's current limb size to ensure a comfortable fit between the joint protector and the limb, achieving a personalized fit.

[0012] After adjustment, close the opening and closing mechanism to cut off the passage between the adjusting hole and the first slide groove, creating a sealed space inside the first slide groove. In the sealed state, the air pressure inside the first slide groove firmly restrains the connecting rod in place, achieving effective braking and support for the joint.

[0013] When a child's joint swells, the swollen tissue pushes the connecting rod outward, causing an increase in the volume between the connecting rod and the inner wall of the first groove, generating negative pressure. When the negative pressure exceeds the preset threshold of the anti-compression mechanism, the mechanism automatically activates, introducing outside air into the first groove to balance the internal pressure. This process avoids continuous pressure on the swollen joint, ensuring automatic relief of mechanical pressure when the condition fluctuates.

[0014] The above approach has the following beneficial effects:

[0015] 1. This solution, through the design of adjustable connecting rods and first sliding groove, allows the device to be adjusted in size as the child grows and develops, avoiding problems such as the device becoming too tight, causing pressure, or failing due to limb growth, thus ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of long-term treatment.

[0016] 2. In this solution, the anti-compression mechanism automatically responds to changes in negative pressure, promptly introducing air to relieve pressure when the joint swells, preventing iatrogenic injuries such as increased pain, impaired blood circulation, skin damage, or nerve compression caused by the rigid fixation of traditional braces, thus significantly improving treatment safety.

[0017] 3. This treatment plan can adapt to the fluctuating nature of rheumatic and immunological diseases (alternating between active and remission periods), automatically reducing pressure when joints are swollen during active periods and providing stable support during remission periods, thus meeting the dynamic treatment needs of children.

[0018] 4. This plan improves the comfort of children by reducing pressure and discomfort, thereby enhancing treatment compliance and promoting joint protection and rehabilitation.

[0019] 5. This solution utilizes mechanical and pneumatic principles to achieve its function, eliminating the need for complex electronic components, thus reducing manufacturing costs and maintenance difficulty, and facilitating clinical application and home use.

[0020] Furthermore, the opening and closing mechanism includes a side groove formed on one side of the path connecting the adjustment hole and the first slide groove, an adjustment plate is slidably fitted inside the side groove, and a first spring is provided between the adjustment plate and the inner wall of the side groove.

[0021] Beneficial effects: When the size of the joint protector needs to be adjusted, the user (medical staff or parents) manually moves the adjustment plate, allowing it to slide within the side groove and compress the first spring. When the adjustment plate is fully slid into the side groove and its body no longer obstructs the communication path between the adjustment hole and the first slide groove, this path is opened. At this time, outside air can freely enter and exit the first slide groove through the adjustment hole, allowing the connecting rod to slide smoothly within the first slide groove for precise fitting according to the child's current limb size.

[0022] After the dimensions are adjusted, the user releases the adjustment plate. At this point, the compressed first spring releases its elastic potential energy, pushing the adjustment plate out of the side groove and causing it to re-block the communication path between the adjustment hole and the first slide groove. This cuts off the gas exchange between the first slide groove and the outside, creating a sealed air chamber inside the first slide groove. In this state, the internal air pressure effect can firmly lock the connecting rod in its current position, thereby providing stable braking and support for the joint.

[0023] The entire mechanism can be opened and closed with a simple toggle and release, requiring no complicated tools or precise operations, which greatly facilitates the use by medical staff and families of sick children and reduces the learning cost.

[0024] Furthermore, the anti-compression mechanism includes a second slide groove, which is connected to the first slide groove. A rod is slidably fitted inside the second slide groove, and an air outlet channel is provided inside the rod. When the rod is displaced a preset distance, the air outlet channel connects the first slide groove to the outside. A reset groove is connected to one side of the second slide groove. A second spring and a support plate are installed inside the reset groove. The support plate is fixedly connected to the side wall of the rod and slidably fitted to the reset groove. The two ends of the second spring are fixedly connected to the support plate and the inner wall of the reset groove, respectively.

[0025] Beneficial effect: After the joint protective sleeve is fixed, the first slide groove is in a sealed state, and the internal air pressure is balanced with the external atmospheric pressure (or there is a negative pressure for fixation). At this time, under the pressure applied by the second spring through the support plate, the front end of the insertion rod is usually located at or very close to the entrance of the second slide groove, and the air outlet is sealed in the second slide groove, failing to open the passage between the first slide groove and the outside.

[0026] When a child's joint swells, the swollen tissue pushes the connecting rod outward, increasing the volume of the sealed space within the first groove and creating significant negative pressure. This negative pressure exerts a "sucking" force on the end face of the insertion rod, drawing it into the first groove. When the joint swells to a certain extent, making the negative pressure force sufficient to overcome the preload of the second spring, the insertion rod begins to slide into the first groove.

[0027] After the insertion rod slides inward a preset distance, the air outlet channel inside it precisely crosses the sealed area, establishing a connection between the first slide and the external environment. External air is immediately drawn into the negative pressure zone through this channel, rapidly restoring the pressure inside the first slide to atmospheric pressure. This process instantly relieves the restrictive pressure of the device on the swollen joint, avoiding risks such as impaired blood circulation and nerve compression.

[0028] Once the joint swelling subsides, the internal negative pressure decreases or disappears. At this point, the compressed second spring begins to push the support plate and the fixed rod outward until the rod is fully returned to its initial position. The air outlet is then sealed again, and the device returns to its initial stable and fixed state, ready to cope with the next fluctuation in the patient's condition.

[0029] The mechanism is driven entirely by physical principles (pressure difference and spring force), requiring no power source, sensors, or complex circuitry. Its response threshold is determined by the preload of the second spring, ensuring precision and reliability. This guarantees that pressure relief will only be initiated when joint swelling reaches a preset clinically dangerous level, preventing malfunctions. It perfectly matches the fluctuating characteristics of rheumatic and immunological diseases. It provides protection during periods of active swelling and automatically resets to maintain support after swelling subsides during remission. This achieves intelligent management where the device "resonates" with the patient's condition.

[0030] Furthermore, the joint protector is also equipped with a heat dissipation mechanism and a heat application mechanism; the heat dissipation mechanism is used to cool down the patient's limbs; the heat application mechanism is used to apply heat to the patient's limbs.

[0031] Beneficial effects: In the acute phase, the heat dissipation mechanism directly combats the inflammatory response, reducing swelling and pain; in the chronic phase, the heat therapy mechanism relieves stiffness and promotes functional recovery. This aligns perfectly with the staging management principles of rheumatic diseases, providing an important adjunctive treatment method in addition to medication.

[0032] Pain and discomfort are the main reasons why children resist wearing braces. The temperature control function can quickly bring relief, heat dissipation can reduce burning pain, and heat application can relieve soreness and swelling. This greatly improves the wearing experience, thereby significantly increasing the child's willingness to wear the brace long-term and regularly, and ensuring the continued effectiveness of the core protective function.

[0033] Furthermore, the heat dissipation mechanism includes several arrays of vent holes opened inside the joint protective sleeve. Each row of vent holes is connected to a conveying channel. One end of the conveying channel is connected to the outside, and the other end of the conveying channel is connected to a pneumatic component, which is used to convey air into the conveying channel. A throat is provided at the connection between the conveying channel and the vent holes. An adaptive contraction mechanism is provided on the throat for automatically adjusting the throat contraction ratio based on the magnitude of the negative pressure in the first groove.

[0034] Beneficial effects: When a child's joints are in the acute inflammatory phase and cooling is needed, the pneumatic mechanism is activated. The pneumatic mechanism pumps cool, dry outside air into the delivery channel. As the airflow passes through the throat, the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel shrinks dramatically, causing a sharp increase in velocity according to Bernoulli's principle. This results in a significant decrease in static pressure at that point, creating a localized negative pressure zone. This negative pressure zone is directly opposite the vent, thus generating a strong suction effect.

[0035] Under the suction of negative pressure in the throat, the warm, humid air inside the joint protector, close to the skin surface (in the gaps), which has been heated by body heat, is forced into the delivery channel through the vents. This warm, humid air then mixes with the main airflow in the delivery channel and is quickly expelled from the device. Simultaneously, the skin surface dries as the warm, humid air is drawn away, and cool outside air enters through gaps such as the edges of the protector, creating a continuous and efficient heat dissipation cycle that actively cools the joint area.

[0036] When the acute swelling of a child's joint worsens, it pushes a connecting rod, causing an increase in negative pressure within the first groove. This change in negative pressure is transmitted to the adaptive contraction mechanism, which drives the mechanism to further contract the cross-sectional area of ​​the larynx. The increased contraction ratio of the larynx results in a faster airflow velocity through this area. According to Bernoulli's principle, the faster the flow velocity, the stronger the local negative pressure generated. Therefore, at the moment when joint swelling is most severe, the inflammatory response is most intense, and heat generation is at its highest, the suction efficiency of the heat dissipation mechanism automatically increases, achieving intelligent positive feedback linkage between heat dissipation intensity and the severity of the condition.

[0037] By utilizing the negative pressure generated by the Bernoulli effect, suction can actively and forcibly peel off and expel the hot and humid air that is close to the skin surface. Its heat dissipation efficiency and directionality are far superior to the traditional design that simply blows air onto the body surface, achieving cooling at the source.

[0038] The entire intelligent enhancement process is completed passively and mechanically, without the need for additional electronic sensors, controllers, or complex algorithms. It utilizes physical signals that the device itself must monitor (the negative pressure within the chute monitored for anti-compression) to drive the optimization of another function (heat dissipation), achieving a highly integrated, minimalist design and extremely high reliability.

[0039] Furthermore, the adaptive contraction mechanism includes a lifting groove connected to the throat, a contraction block slidably fitted inside the lifting groove, and third sliding grooves connected to both sides of the lifting groove. Wedges are slidably fitted inside each of the third sliding grooves, and a fourth spring is provided between each wedge and the inner wall of the third sliding groove. The wedges are used to maintain a smooth transition between the throat and the conveying channel. A movable groove is connected to the end of the lifting groove away from the conveying channel, and the movable groove is connected to the first sliding groove. A sealing block, a traction member, a pressing block, and a third spring are provided inside the movable groove. The sealing block is located between the movable groove and the first sliding groove, and both the sealing block and the pressing block are slidably fitted inside the movable groove. The pressing block and the sealing block are connected by the traction member. Inclined surfaces are provided on both the pressing block and the contraction block, and the pressing block and the contraction block are slidably fitted through the inclined surfaces. The third spring is used to support the repositioning of the pressing block.

[0040] Beneficial effects: Under normal conditions, there is no significant negative pressure in the first chute. The sealing block remains in place, and the traction component is in a relaxed state. The third spring supports the extrusion block, keeping it in its initial position. At this time, the contraction block is located in the lifting chute under gravity or slight resistance (pressure between the extrusion block and the contraction block), but this does not significantly affect the throat diameter. The wedges on both sides extend under the action of the fourth spring, smoothly filling the gap between the lifting chute and the conveying channel wall, ensuring a smooth airflow channel and minimal airflow resistance.

[0041] When joint swelling increases the negative pressure within the first groove, this negative pressure acts on the sealing block, causing it to displace away from the third spring. The movement of the sealing block pulls the compression block via the tensioned traction member, causing it to overcome the spring force of the third spring and move towards the contraction block. Because the compression block and the contraction block are engaged by an inclined plane, the movement of the compression block compresses the contraction block, converting this into a thrust on the contraction block towards the conveying channel, driving the contraction block to slide towards the center region of the throat within the lifting groove.

[0042] Simultaneously, the movement of the contraction block compresses the wedges on both sides, forcing them to retract into their respective third grooves against the force of the fourth spring, while maintaining a smooth transition within the channel. Ultimately, the contraction block invades the throat, resulting in a significant reduction in the effective diameter of the throat and an increase in the contraction ratio.

[0043] As the joint swelling subsides, the negative pressure within the first groove decreases. The third spring pulls the compression block back to its original position, and the compression block releases the thrust on the contraction block through the inclined surface contact. Subsequently, the wedges on both sides extend again under the action of the fourth spring, pushing the contraction block back to its original position while maintaining a smooth transition of the channel, and the throat returns to its initial diameter.

[0044] This solution directly uses the physical quantity reflecting the degree of joint swelling (negative pressure within the first groove) as the input signal, and converts it into precise control of heat dissipation intensity without delay through a purely mechanical structure. The more severe the swelling, the greater the negative pressure, the greater the displacement of the sealing block, and ultimately the greater the contraction of the throat, resulting in a synchronous and linear increase in heat dissipation capacity, thus achieving perfect negative feedback regulation.

[0045] Furthermore, the heat therapy mechanism includes a temperature control layer alternately arranged inside the joint protector, and a flexible electric heating film is installed inside the temperature control layer.

[0046] Beneficial effects: The flexible electrothermal film is embedded in the temperature control layer inside the joint protective sleeve in an alternating arrangement. This alternating layout ensures that the heating area covers the critical parts while leaving gaps, avoiding excessive stacking of materials and maintaining the overall flexibility of the protective sleeve.

[0047] When a child experiences joint stiffness or chronic pain, the heat therapy function can be activated. Electric current passes through a flexible heating film embedded in a temperature-controlled layer, converting electrical energy into heat, which then radiates to the affected area. The flexible heating film itself has excellent heat uniformity, and its alternating and distributed integration within the protective sleeve ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the entire joint area, rather than concentrated at a single point. This achieves surface-level heat therapy, effectively promoting deep blood circulation and relieving tissue stiffness.

[0048] Furthermore, the end of the conveying channel away from the pneumatic component is connected to a musical instrument.

[0049] Beneficial effect: When the pneumatic component is activated, the airflow completes its heat dissipation cycle through the conveying channel and is eventually discharged from the channel outlet. At this point, this continuous airflow is guided to the instrument at the end, driving it to produce sound.

[0050] Transforming the sounds of medical devices that might otherwise frustrate or annoy children into novel and engaging music or noise can effectively divert their attention from the treatment itself, reducing their anxiety and fear. This positive experience significantly increases a child's willingness to wear the device. Combining the treatment process with gamified and fun elements helps cultivate an optimistic attitude towards illness in children.

[0051] Furthermore, the outer side of the joint protector is decorated with cartoon patterns.

[0052] Beneficial effects: For children who need to wear medical devices for extended periods, these devices often trigger anxiety, resistance, or even fear. Lively and friendly cartoon illustrations can transform cold medical devices into familiar and fun toys, effectively distracting children from their illness and treatment, alleviating their anxiety, and making them more emotionally receptive.

[0053] Furthermore, the cartoon pattern is coated with a thermochromic ink layer, and several heat-conducting pads are arranged in an array on the inner side of the joint protective sleeve. Each heat-conducting pad has a heat-conducting wire on the side away from the limb, and the heat-conducting wire is arranged within the thermochromic ink layer.

[0054] Beneficial Effects: When the child wears the device, the heat-conducting pads on the inside of the joint protector directly contact the skin, collecting the local temperature of the joint surface. These heat-conducting pads form a heat conduction pathway with the thermochromic ink layer on the outer cartoon pattern via heat-conducting wires. The characteristic of thermochromic ink is that its color changes reversibly with temperature. When the joint temperature is normal, the thermochromic ink layer displays the base color. Due to the increased heat production caused by the inflammatory response in the joint, the temperature rises. This heat is rapidly transferred to the ink layer through the heat-conducting pads and wires. When the temperature exceeds the color-changing threshold, the color of the cartoon pattern or certain areas begin to change. By observing the changes in the pattern's color, a preliminary and rapid assessment of the joint's inflammatory activity can be made, enabling convenient monitoring of the condition in the home environment. The dynamically changing pattern makes the device more technologically advanced and attractive, further enhancing the child's emotional identification and willingness to wear it.

[0055] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the joint protection device of the present invention suitable for use in children with rheumatic and immune diseases.

[0057] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A front view of a joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic and immune diseases;

[0058] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view along the AA direction;

[0059] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Sectional view along the BB direction;

[0060] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the larynx structure in the joint protection device of the present invention, suitable for use in children with rheumatic and immune diseases.

[0061] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of a portion of point M in the middle;

[0062] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point N in the middle.

[0063] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings of the instruction manual include: 1. Joint protective sleeve; 2. Connecting rod; 3. Ventilation hole; 4. Temperature control layer; 201. First slide groove; 202. Adjustment hole; 203. Adjustment plate; 204. First spring; 205. Insert rod; 206. Reset groove; 207. Second spring; 208. Second slide groove; 209. Air outlet channel; 210. Support plate; 301. Conveying channel; 302. Throat; 303. Contraction block; 304. Compression block; 305. Third spring; 306. Sealing block; 307. Traction component; 308. Wedge block; 309. Fourth spring; 310. Third slide groove; 311. Movable groove. Detailed Implementation

[0064] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0065] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0066] In the description of this 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 connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0067] The following detailed description illustrates the specific implementation method:

[0068] Example:

[0069] As attached Figures 1-7 The illustration shows a joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases. It mainly includes a joint protector sleeve 1. In this embodiment, the joint protector sleeve 1 is an arc-shaped cylindrical structure with a notch that conforms to the shape of the patient's joint. The size of the notch is adjusted by closing the joint protector sleeve 1, thereby adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the joint protector sleeve 1 to fit limb joints of different sizes. The inner side of the joint protector sleeve 1 is made of flexible material to improve wearing comfort. Preferably, the outer side of the joint protector sleeve 1 is engraved with a cartoon pattern (not shown in the figure), and the cartoon pattern is coated with a thermochromic ink layer. Several heat-conducting pads (not shown in the figure) are arranged in an array on the inner side of the joint protector sleeve 1. The heat-conducting pads are embedded in the inner side of the joint protector sleeve 1, and heat-conducting wires are welded and fixed to the side of the heat-conducting pads away from the limb. The heat-conducting wires are arranged within the thermochromic ink layer, and the heat-conducting wires form a "well"-shaped structure within the thermochromic ink layer.

[0070] The joint protective sleeve 1 has several first sliding grooves 201 and several connecting rods 2 on both sides (specifically, both sides of the notch). The connecting rods 2 are bonded and fixed to the outer side of the joint protective sleeve 1. The first sliding grooves 201 are opened on the side of the joint protective sleeve 1 opposite to the connecting rods 2. The first sliding grooves 201 and the connecting rods 2 correspond one-to-one. When the joint protective sleeve 1 covers the joint, the connecting rods 2 are inserted into the first sliding grooves 201, and the connecting rods 2 and the first sliding grooves 201 slide in a sliding fit. Preferably, a sealing ring is also slidably connected inside the first sliding groove 201 to ensure the sealing between the connecting rods 2 and the inner wall of the first sliding groove 201. Each of the first sliding grooves 201 is connected to an adjustment hole 202 and an anti-compression mechanism, combined with the attached... Figure 4 and attached Figure 6 As shown, the adjustment hole 202 is opened on the outside of the joint protective sleeve 1. The adjustment hole 202 and the first slide groove 201 are connected by an opening and closing mechanism. The opening and closing mechanism is used to control the opening and closing between the adjustment hole 202 and the first slide groove 201.

[0071] Specifically, the opening and closing mechanism includes a side groove on one side of the path connecting the adjustment hole 202 and the first slide groove 201. The side of the side groove has a "┛" shaped structure. An adjustment plate 203 is slidably fitted inside the side groove. The adjustment plate 203 has a "Z" shaped structure. The adjustment plate 203 is slidably fitted to the outer side of the joint protective sleeve 1. A first spring 204 is provided between the adjustment plate 203 and the inner wall of the side groove. The two ends of the first spring 204 are respectively bonded and fixed to the inner wall of the side groove and the adjustment plate 203.

[0072] The anti-compression mechanism is used to connect the first slide 201 to the outside based on the magnitude of the negative pressure in the first slide 201.

[0073] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 6 As shown, the anti-compression mechanism includes a second slide groove 208, which corresponds one-to-one with the first slide groove 201. The bottom of the second slide groove 208 is connected to the first slide groove 201, and the top of the second slide groove 208 is connected to the outside. A rod 205 is slidably fitted inside the second slide groove 208. Several air outlet channels 209 are opened inside the rod 205. When the rod 205 moves a preset distance, the air outlet channels 209 connect the first slide groove 201 to the outside. A reset groove 206 is connected to one side of the second slide groove 208. A second spring 207 and a support plate 210 are installed inside the reset groove 206. The support plate 210 is integrally set with the side wall of the rod 205. The support plate 210 is slidably fitted with the reset groove 206. The two ends of the second spring 207 are respectively bonded and fixed to the support plate 210 and the inner wall of the reset groove 206.

[0074] Preferably, the joint protector 1 is also provided with a heat dissipation mechanism and a heat application mechanism; the heat dissipation mechanism is used to cool down the patient's limb; the heat application mechanism is used to apply heat to the patient's limb.

[0075] Specifically, the heat dissipation mechanism includes several arrays of vents 3 opened inside the joint protective sleeve 1. Each row of vents 3 along the length of the joint protective sleeve 1 is connected to a conveying channel 301. One end of the conveying channel 301 is connected to the outside, and the other end of the conveying channel 301 is connected to a pneumatic component. In this embodiment, the pneumatic component is a miniature air pump, which is used to convey outside air into each conveying channel 301. (See attached diagram.) Figure 5 As shown, a throat 302 is provided at the connection between the conveying channel 301 and the vent 3. An adaptive contraction mechanism is provided on the throat 302 for automatically adjusting the contraction ratio of the throat 302 based on the negative pressure in the first chute 201. Preferably, a musical instrument is connected to the end of the conveying channel 301 away from the pneumatic component. In this embodiment, the musical instrument is a whistle.

[0076] Specifically, the adaptive shrinking mechanism includes a lifting groove, which is located on one side of the conveying channel 301. The lifting groove corresponds to and is connected to the throat 302. A shrinking block 303 is slidably fitted inside the lifting groove, in conjunction with the attached... Figure 7As shown, the bottom of the contraction block 303 is provided with a converging section and a diffusing section corresponding to the structure of the throat 302. The top side of the contraction block 303 is provided with an inclined surface. The bottom sides of the lifting groove are connected to the third sliding groove 310. The third sliding groove 310 is slidably fitted with a wedge 308. The wedge 308 and the inner wall of the third sliding groove 310 are bonded and fixed with a fourth spring 309. The wedge 308 is used to maintain a smooth transition between the throat 302 and the conveying channel 301. Preferably, the wedge 308, the bottom of the contraction block 303 and the rest of the throat 302 can form a complete and smooth throat 302. The lifting trough, away from the conveying channel 301, is connected to a movable trough 311. One end of the movable trough 311 is connected to the first sliding trough 201. A sealing block 306, a traction member 307, a pressing block 304, and a third spring 305 are disposed within the movable trough 311. The sealing block 306 is located between the movable trough 311 and the first sliding trough 201. Both the sealing block 306 and the pressing block 304 are slidably engaged with the movable trough 311. The pressing block 304 and the sealing block 306 are connected by the traction member 307. In this embodiment, the traction member 307... 07 is a pull wire. In some other preferred embodiments, the traction member 307 can also adopt a rod-shaped structure to realize the synchronous movement of the sealing block 306 and the squeezing block 304. The squeezing block 304 is also provided with an inclined surface corresponding to the top of the shrinking block 303. The squeezing block 304 and the shrinking block 303 slide together through the inclined surface. The third spring 305 is used to support the squeezing block 304 to reset. The two ends of the third spring 305 are respectively bonded and fixed to the squeezing block 304 and the inner wall of the movable groove 311 (one end of the first sliding groove 201 is away).

[0077] Specifically, the heat therapy mechanism includes a temperature control layer 4 alternately arranged inside the joint protective sleeve 1, and a flexible electric heating film is embedded in the temperature control layer 4.

[0078] The specific implementation process is as follows:

[0079] First, wrap the curved cylindrical joint protector 1 around the child's target joint, ensuring that the flexible material on its inner side is in contact with the skin. Then, open the adjustment plate 203 and align the connecting rods 2 on one side of the notch in the joint protector 1 with the corresponding first grooves 201 on the other side, and insert them.

[0080] At this time, all opening and closing mechanisms are in the open state: under the pressure applied by the doctor or family member, the adjusting plate 203 is in the position of compressing the first spring 204 in the side groove, so that the communication path between the adjusting hole 202 and the first slide groove 201 is unobstructed. Due to the balance of internal and external air pressure, the connecting rod 2 can slide freely in the first slide groove 201. Adjust the tightness of the joint protective sleeve 1 according to the current joint size of the child, so that the connecting rod 2 slides to the appropriate position, realizing the personalized initial adaptation of the device.

[0081] After the size adjustment is completed, release the adjusting plate 203. Under the restoring force of the first spring 204, the adjusting plate 203 automatically slides back and closes the communication path between the adjusting hole 202 and the first slide groove 201. At this time, a sealed air chamber is formed inside the first slide groove 201. Under the action of atmospheric pressure, the connecting rod 2 is firmly fixed in the current position, realizing stable support and braking of the joint.

[0082] When a child's joint experiences acute swelling, the swollen tissue pushes the connecting rod 2 outward (due to the increased diameter of the area enclosed by the joint protector 1), increasing the volume of the sealed space within the first groove 201 and generating negative pressure. When the negative pressure exceeds the preset preload of the second spring 207:

[0083] The negative pressure suction rod 205 slides towards the first slide groove 201, and the support plate 210 moves accordingly, compressing the second spring 207. When the rod 205 reaches a preset distance, its internal air outlet channel 209 connects the first slide groove 201 with the external environment, and external air quickly enters the first slide groove 201, balancing the internal pressure and relieving the mechanical pressure of the joint protective sleeve 1 on the swollen joint. When the negative pressure falls below the preset preload of the second spring 207 again, the rod 205 automatically resets under the restoring force of the second spring 207, re-closing the ventilation path.

[0084] When cooling is needed, the child or their family can activate the miniature air pump to pump cool outside air into the delivery channel 301. As the airflow passes through the throat 302, it generates a Bernoulli effect, creating a negative pressure zone at the vent 3, drawing out the warm, moist air from the joint surface and achieving basic cooling. Simultaneously, the cooling airflow drives the whistle at the end to produce a sound, masking mechanical noise and transforming it into a pleasant whistling sound.

[0085] Furthermore, when joint swelling triggers the anti-compression mechanism, the negative pressure within the first groove 201 simultaneously acts on the adaptive contraction mechanism (the sealing block 306 of the movable groove 311):

[0086] The negative pressure suction seal block 306 moves towards the first slide groove 201, and the traction member 307 pulls the compression block 304 to overcome the resistance of the third spring 305 and move it towards the contraction block 303. The compression block 304 pushes the contraction block 303 towards the center of the throat 302 through the inclined surface cooperation. The contraction block 303 squeezes the wedge blocks 308 on both sides, causing them to overcome the resistance of the fourth spring 309 and retract into the third slide groove 310. The effective diameter of the throat 302 decreases, the airflow velocity increases, and the heat dissipation effect is enhanced. After the swelling subsides, under the synergistic action of the third spring 305 and the fourth spring 309, all components automatically reset.

[0087] When the joint is in a period of chronic stiffness and pain, the flexible electrothermal film of the heat therapy device is activated. Current passes through the flexible electrothermal film, which is alternately arranged inside the joint protective sleeve 1, generating safe and controllable heat (maintained at 40-45℃). The heat is evenly conducted to the tissues surrounding the joint, promoting blood circulation and relieving stiffness and pain.

[0088] During operation, the temperature of the joint surface is collected by an array of heat-conducting pads and conducted to the thermochromic ink layer via heat-conducting wires. When the joint temperature exceeds a set threshold, the cartoon pattern changes color, providing caregivers, family members, and children with an intuitive visual indication of inflammatory activity.

[0089] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases, comprising a joint protection sleeve (1), characterized in that, The joint protective sleeve (1) is provided with several first sliding grooves (201) and several connecting rods (2) on both sides. The first sliding grooves (201) and the connecting rods (2) correspond one-to-one. When the joint protective sleeve (1) wraps the joint, the connecting rods (2) are inserted into the first sliding grooves (201) and slide in cooperation with the first sliding grooves (201). Each first sliding groove (201) is connected to an adjustment hole (202) and an anti-compression mechanism. An opening and closing mechanism is connected to the path between the adjustment hole (202) and the first sliding groove (201). The opening and closing mechanism is used to control the opening and closing between the adjustment hole (202) and the first sliding groove (201). The anti-compression mechanism is used to control the opening and closing between the first sliding groove (201) and the outside world based on the negative pressure in the first sliding groove (201). The opening and closing mechanism includes a side groove opened on one side of the communication path between the adjustment hole (202) and the first slide groove (201), an adjustment plate (203) is slidably fitted in the side groove, and a first spring (204) is provided between the adjustment plate (203) and the inner wall of the side groove. The anti-compression mechanism includes a second slide groove (208), which is connected to the first slide groove (201). A rod (205) is slidably fitted inside the second slide groove (208). An air outlet channel (209) is provided inside the rod (205). When the rod (205) moves to a preset distance, the air outlet channel (209) connects the first slide groove (201) to the outside. A reset groove (206) is connected to one side of the second slide groove (208). A second spring (207) and a support plate (210) are provided inside the reset groove (206). The support plate (210) is fixedly connected to the side wall of the rod (205). The support plate (210) is slidably fitted to the reset groove (206). The two ends of the second spring (207) are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the support plate (210) and the reset groove (206), respectively.

2. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 1, characterized in that, The joint protector (1) is also equipped with a heat dissipation mechanism and a heat application mechanism; the heat dissipation mechanism is used to cool down the patient's limbs; the heat application mechanism is used to apply heat to the patient's limbs.

3. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat dissipation mechanism includes several arrays of vent holes (3) opened inside the joint protective sleeve (1). Each row of vent holes (3) is connected to a conveying channel (301). One end of the conveying channel (301) is connected to the outside, and the other end of the conveying channel (301) is connected to a pneumatic component. The pneumatic component is used to convey air into the conveying channel (301). A throat (302) is provided at the connection between the conveying channel (301) and the vent hole (3). An adaptive contraction mechanism is provided on the throat (302) for automatically adjusting the contraction ratio of the throat (302) based on the magnitude of the negative pressure in the first groove (201).

4. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 3, characterized in that, The adaptive contraction mechanism includes a lifting groove, which is connected to the throat (302). A contraction block (303) is slidably fitted inside the lifting groove. A third slide groove (310) is connected to both sides of the lifting groove. A wedge (308) is slidably fitted inside each of the third slide grooves (310). A fourth spring (309) is provided between the wedge (308) and the inner wall of the third slide groove (310). The wedge (308) is used to maintain a smooth transition between the throat (302) and the conveying channel (301). A movable groove (311) is connected to the end of the lifting groove away from the conveying channel (301). The movable groove (311) is connected to the first slide groove (201). 1) The interior is provided with a sealing block (306), a traction member (307), a squeezing block (304) and a third spring (305). The sealing block (306) is located between the movable groove (311) and the first sliding groove (201). The sealing block (306) and the squeezing block (304) are both slidably engaged with the movable groove (311). The squeezing block (304) and the sealing block (306) are connected by the traction member (307). The squeezing block (304) and the shrinking block (303) are both provided with inclined surfaces. The squeezing block (304) and the shrinking block (303) are slidably engaged by the inclined surfaces. The third spring (305) is used to support the squeezing block (304) to reset.

5. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 4, characterized in that, The hot compress mechanism includes a temperature control layer (4) alternately arranged inside the joint protective sleeve (1), and a flexible electric heating film is provided inside the temperature control layer (4).

6. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 5, characterized in that, The end of the conveying channel (301) away from the pneumatic component is connected to a musical instrument.

7. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outer side of the joint protector (1) is decorated with cartoon patterns.

8. The joint protection device suitable for children with rheumatic immune diseases according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cartoon pattern is coated with a thermochromic ink layer. Several heat-conducting pads are arranged in an array on the inner side of the joint protective sleeve (1). Heat-conducting wires are arranged on the side of the heat-conducting pads away from the limbs. The heat-conducting wires are arranged in the thermochromic ink layer.

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