Adjustable dynamic spinal orthotic device for ankylosing spondylitis patient

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of spinal correction, in particular to an adjustable dynamic spinal orthopedic device for ankylosing spondylitis patient, comprising a plurality of center blocks and a plurality of support belts, a plurality of pressure sensors for measuring the body surface pressure data of each segment of the spine are arranged on the side of the support belt close to the spine; the center block is fixedly connected with a pressure block on both sides, and the center block is provided with a pressure adjusting mechanism for adjusting the body surface pressure data and the contact position when the pressure block contacts the skin on the back; it also includes an operation module, the operation module is used for inputting and storing a posture mapping identification model, based on the body surface pressure data, the abnormal position information of the corresponding abnormal spine segment is obtained by substituting the posture mapping identification model, and the pressure adjusting mechanism is controlled based on the abnormal position information; the present application is suitable for supporting the inflammatory lesion site of different spondylitis patients, reducing muscle atrophy caused by long-term rigid support, and facilitating daily long-term wearing and using.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of spinal correction technology, specifically to an adjustable dynamic spinal correction device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Background Technology

[0002] Ankylosing spondylitis is primarily characterized by chronic inflammation at the spinal entheses. As the disease progresses, patients often develop a habitual hunchback due to chronic lower back pain. This persistent flexion accelerates ectopic ossification of spinal ligaments, exacerbating thoracic kyphosis. Medication can only control inflammation and cannot consistently regulate daily posture. Current techniques typically utilize spinal orthotic devices to help maintain spinal extension alignment, avoid continuous flexion mechanical stimulation, and slow the progression of deformity. Combined with rehabilitation training, this can protect spinal muscle function, prevent functional postural deformities from developing into irreversible bony ankylosis, and reduce the likelihood of late-stage surgical correction.

[0003] Existing intervention devices for spinal posture abnormalities and spinal deformities mainly include three categories: active pressure orthotic braces, wearable posture reminder devices, and fixed spinal rehabilitation physiotherapy devices. These devices achieve spinal intervention through mechanical external force correction, posture abnormality early warning, and in-hospital physical therapy, respectively.

[0004] However, traditional intervention devices employ a passive intervention design. Ankylosing spondylitis presents with pathological characteristics such as inflammation at spinal attachment points and segmental differential lesions in the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. Using rigid compression structures can easily compress inflammatory lesions, exacerbating patient pain and morning stiffness, leading to poor adherence. Furthermore, these devices rely on external mechanical force to replace the body's spinal muscle groups in bearing weight. Long-term use can cause disuse atrophy of deep spinal stabilizing muscles, easily resulting in corrective rebound and failing to achieve long-term, stable corrective effects.

[0005] Meanwhile, existing devices lack differentiated control logic for the thoracic and lumbar spine, resulting in insufficient accuracy and adaptability. They can only provide passive posture reminders or short-term passive physiotherapy, failing to achieve active muscle activation and neuromuscular function remodeling. Furthermore, fixed devices are suitable for short-term in-hospital use and cannot meet the needs of 24 / 7 dynamic intervention. Rigid orthotic devices also restrict chest expansion, exhibiting weak adaptability across multiple scenarios and failing to meet the long-term, individualized, and routine spinal deformity prevention and rehabilitation needs of ankylosing spondylitis patients. Therefore, this invention provides an adjustable dynamic orthotic device that is easy to wear for extended periods. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides an adjustable dynamic spinal orthosis device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis. It is suitable for supporting the inflammatory lesions of different spondylitis patients, reducing muscle atrophy caused by long-term rigid support, and is convenient for long-term daily wear.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: An adjustable dynamic spinal orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis includes several central blocks arranged along the length of the spinal centerline, several support belts fixedly connected to both sides of the central blocks, and an adhesive mechanism for adjusting the fitting length of the support belts on the support belts; several pressure sensors are arranged on the side of the support belts close to the spine, and the pressure sensors are used to measure the surface pressure data of the support belts and each segment of the spine.

[0008] The center block has pressure blocks fixedly connected to both sides for contact with the skin on the back. The center block is equipped with a pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the surface pressure data and contact position when the pressure blocks contact the skin on the back.

[0009] A computing module is also fixedly connected to the central block. The computing module is used to input and store the posture mapping recognition model, and to obtain the abnormal position information of the corresponding abnormal spinal segment by substituting the body surface pressure data into the posture mapping recognition model. Then, the pressure adjustment mechanism is controlled based on the abnormal position information.

[0010] Furthermore, the support belts are positioned to correspond to the human chest and abdomen.

[0011] Furthermore, the pressure sensor's measurement location corresponds to the soft tissues adjacent to the kyphotic segments of the thoracic vertebrae T4-T11 and the kyphotic segments of the lumbar vertebrae L1-L4.

[0012] Furthermore, the central block is elliptical in shape, and an arc-shaped cavity is opened on the side of the central block closest to the spine; a contact layer is fixedly connected between the central block and the support belt, and the contact layer is used to connect adjacent support belts;

[0013] The pressure adjustment mechanism includes several connecting rods that slide with the center block. The connecting rods are symmetrically arranged around the center block and are located between adjacent center blocks. Each connecting rod is fixedly connected to an elastic pressure block on one side. The pressure block slides with the center block and is located within the support belt. A pressure sensor is arranged between the pressure block and the skin on the back.

[0014] An air pipe is connected to the center of the connecting rod, and a pump is connected to the end of the air pipe away from the connecting rod. A negative pressure chamber for sliding of the connecting rod is also opened in the support belt. Several air push rods are connected to the negative pressure chamber. A first pipe is connected between the air push rods and the air pipe, and a first solenoid valve is connected inside the first pipe.

[0015] Furthermore, the pressure adjustment mechanism also includes an electric actuator fixedly connected to the center block. The output shaft of the electric actuator is engaged with a slider, which slides in conjunction with the center block, and the slider is fixedly connected to the connecting rod.

[0016] When the electric actuator is at its minimum range, the output end of the electric actuator is separated from the slider and hidden in the center block on one side; when the electric actuator is at its maximum range, the output end of the electric actuator is separated from the slider and located between adjacent center blocks.

[0017] Furthermore, the computing module includes a storage module, a pressure difference calculation module, an inflammation area marking module, and a pressure execution identification module;

[0018] The storage module is used to input and store spinal morphology information, which includes the names and locations of each segment of the spine. The pressure sensors and the first solenoid valve on both sides of the central block are associated with each segment of the spine according to their location information.

[0019] The pressure difference calculation module is used to calculate the pressure deviation of the same location information and the pressure gradient of adjacent location information according to the body surface pressure data corresponding to the associated markers.

[0020] The inflammation area marking module is used to input and store the posture mapping recognition model. The pressure deviation and pressure gradient are substituted into the posture mapping recognition model to obtain the abnormal location information corresponding to the abnormal segment.

[0021] The pressure actuation identification module obtains the first solenoid valve corresponding to the pressure sensor based on the abnormal position information, and adjusts the power of the pumping component based on the magnitude of the pressure deviation and pressure gradient.

[0022] Furthermore, several heat dissipation meshes are provided on the side of the contact layer away from the pressure sensor, and the heat dissipation meshes are connected to the negative pressure chamber.

[0023] Furthermore, a heat-conducting layer is fixedly connected to the side of the pressure block away from the pressure sensor.

[0024] Furthermore, heat dissipation holes are opened on both sides of the central block, and bimetallic strips are installed inside the heat dissipation holes. The top of the bimetallic strips is fixedly connected to the central block.

[0025] The heat dissipation hole is also connected to a second pipe, and the end of the second pipe away from the heat dissipation hole is connected to the negative pressure chamber. When the bimetallic strip expands due to heat, the bimetallic strip bends and connects the heat dissipation hole to the second pipe. When the bimetallic strip is in its normal state and has not been deformed, the bimetallic strip blocks the heat dissipation hole.

[0026] Furthermore, the end of the second pipe furthest from the heat dissipation hole is connected to the air pipe, and the second pipe is connected to a second solenoid valve.

[0027] Furthermore, a soft pad is fixedly connected to the surface of the central block and the surface of the contact layer, and the soft pad on the surface of the contact layer is located between adjacent pressure blocks.

[0028] Furthermore, an electrical stimulation module for generating microcurrents to stimulate muscles is fixedly connected inside the central block, and the output end of the electrical stimulation module is located on the side of the contact layer near the pressure block.

[0029] The storage module also adds associated markers to the output of the electrical stimulation module based on the positional information of each segment of the spine;

[0030] The pressure execution identification module also sends execution instructions to the electrical stimulation module based on abnormal location information.

[0031] Furthermore, a base block is provided at the bottom of the central block away from the spine, and a second pressure sensor is provided on the side of the base block away from the central block. The second pressure sensor is used to measure the second pressure data when the base block contacts the buttocks, and then send the second pressure data to the pressure execution identification module.

[0032] The pressure execution identification module is also used to compare the second pressure data with the set execution value. If the second pressure data is less than the execution value, a blank instruction is recorded. If the second pressure data is greater than the execution value, the duration is recorded. The duration is then compared with the set start time. If the duration is greater than the start time, an execution confirmation instruction is recorded. If the duration is less than the start time, an execution stop instruction is recorded.

[0033] The above approach has the following beneficial effects:

[0034] 1. In this design, the device is equipped with multiple central blocks arranged along the spinal centerline and support straps with adhesive mechanisms on both sides. The adhesive mechanisms can be various forms such as Velcro and buckles to flexibly adjust the fit length of the support straps. This allows for flexible adaptation to different patients' trunk circumference and body shape differences, expanding the range of people to whom the device is applicable. It also ensures that the support straps reliably fit the back of patients with ankylosing spondylitis of different body types when worn, providing a good foundation for the pressure sensor to stably collect body surface pressure data.

[0035] 2. In this solution, pressure sensors are installed on the inner side of the support belt to obtain surface pressure data of the corresponding segments of the spine. Combined with the adjustable pressure block and pressure adjustment mechanism at the central block, the pressure sensing and mechanical orthopedic execution structure are integrated. This allows for real-time acquisition of the back force status, breaking the limitation of traditional orthopedic devices that can only output constant pressure and cannot sense surface feedback, thus providing real-time mechanical data support for personalized spinal posture intervention.

[0036] 3. In this solution, the computing module pre-stores the posture mapping recognition model, which can analyze the surface pressure data collected by the sensor, accurately identify the location information of abnormal spinal segments, and actively adjust the pressure adjustment mechanism based on the recognition results to dynamically change the contact pressure and action position of the pressure block, forming a closed-loop control system of perception, analysis, and adaptive adjustment. This system can implement targeted mechanical intervention for local deformed areas of the patient's spine, improve the pertinence of spinal deformity correction, and optimize the long-term posture correction effect. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the layout of an adjustable dynamic spinal orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis according to the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A frontal view diagram;

[0039] Figure 3 This is an isometric view of an embodiment of the adjustable dynamic spinal orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the cross section along the AA direction;

[0041] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Cross-sectional schematic diagram along the BB direction;

[0042] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of part C in the middle;

[0043] Figure 7 for Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of part D in the middle;

[0044] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the bending of the bimetallic strip.

[0045] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings include: 1. Spine; 2. Central block; 21. Electric actuator; 22. Connecting rod; 23. Slider; 3. Support belt; 31. Heat dissipation mesh; 32. Contact layer; 4. Pressure block; 41. Pressure sensor; 42. Pneumatic actuator; 43. Negative pressure chamber; 5. Base block; 6. Air tube; 61. First tube; 62. Second tube; 7. Heat dissipation hole; 71. Bimetallic strip. Detailed Implementation

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] The following detailed description illustrates the specific implementation method:

[0050] Example 1:

[0051] As attached Figures 1 to 7 As shown: An adjustable dynamic spinal orthosis device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis includes several central blocks 2 arranged along the length of the central axis of the spine 1. Several support straps 3 are fixedly connected to both sides of the central blocks 2. The support straps 3 are provided with an adhesive mechanism for adjusting the fit length of the support straps 3. In this embodiment, the adhesive mechanism is fixedly attached to the support straps 3 with Velcro. The length of the support straps 3 is adjusted by using the adhesive method of the support straps 3 on both sides of the central blocks 2 to adapt to the wearing needs of patients with different body shapes. In another embodiment, the adhesive mechanism can be replaced by the existing buckle connection method for adjusting the length of the support straps 3, which will not be described in detail. The arrangement position of the support straps 3 corresponds to the human chest and the human abdomen, and the measurement position of the pressure sensor 41 corresponds to the soft tissues next to the (8) easily kyphotic segments of the thoracic end T4-T11 and the (4) easily recurved segments of the lumbar end L1 to L4.

[0052] Because patients with ankylosing spondylitis often have calcification of the spinal ligaments and narrowing of the interspinous spaces, with exposed spinous processes and a lack of sufficient soft tissue cushioning, direct contact of the pressure sensor 41 with each segment can easily cause local pressure pain. Prolonged wear may also lead to skin redness and pressure damage. Secondly, the pressure at the spinous process position is easily affected by local bone morphology, resulting in concentrated force and failing to effectively reflect the tension of the paraspinal muscle groups and the overall sagittal mechanical distribution of the spine, leading to high signal dispersion and a low proportion of effective information. By placing the pressure sensor in the paraspinal muscle area, the mechanical load of the trunk can be uniformly transmitted through soft tissue, obtaining more stable pressure data that better characterizes the curvature changes of the spine, while balancing wearing comfort and the accuracy of surface biomechanical measurements.

[0053] Several pressure sensors 41 are arranged on the side of the support belt 3 near the spine 1. The pressure sensors 41 are used to measure the surface pressure data of the support belt 3 and each segment of the spine 1. Pressure blocks 4 for contacting the skin of the back are fixedly connected on both sides of the central block 2. The central block 2 is provided with a pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the surface pressure data and contact position of the pressure blocks 4 when they contact the skin of the back.

[0054] The central block 2 is elliptical in shape, and an arc-shaped cavity is opened on the side of the central block 2 near the spine 1. A contact layer 32 is fixedly connected between the central block 2 and the support belt 3. In this embodiment, the contact layer 32 is made of medical breathable and highly elastic flexible fabric, such as medical spandex blended knitted fabric, medical grade nylon elastic knitted fabric and medical TPU composite elastic knitted fabric, etc. The contact layer 32 is used to connect the adjacent support belt 3.

[0055] The pressure adjustment mechanism includes several connecting rods 22 that slide with the center block 2. The connecting rods 22 are symmetrically arranged with the center block 2 as the center, and the connecting rods 22 are located between adjacent center blocks 2. Each connecting rod 22 is fixedly connected to an elastic pressure block 4 on one side. The pressure block 4 slides with the center block 2 and is located inside the support belt 3. The pressure sensor 41 is arranged between the pressure block 4 and the skin on the back.

[0056] A gas pipe 6 is connected to the center of the connecting rod 22. A pump is connected to the end of the gas pipe 6 away from the connecting rod 22. The pump is fixedly connected to the surface of the central block 2, such as the base block 5 at the bottom of the central block 2. A negative pressure chamber 43 is also opened in the support belt 3 for the connecting rod 22 to slide. In this embodiment, the side wall of the negative pressure chamber 43 is a rigid rubber block connected to the contact layer 32 to form a stable cavity. A number of air push rods 42 are connected to the negative pressure chamber 43. A first pipe 61 is connected between the air push rods 42 and the gas pipe 6. A first solenoid valve (not shown in the figure) is connected inside the first pipe 61.

[0057] The pressure adjustment mechanism also includes an electric actuator 21 fixedly connected to the center block 2. The output shaft of the electric actuator 21 is engaged with a slider 23, which slides with the center block 2 and is fixedly connected to the connecting rod 22. When the electric actuator 21 is at its minimum range, the output end of the electric actuator 21 is separated from the slider 23 and is hidden in the center block 2 on one side. When the electric actuator 21 is at its maximum range, the output end of the electric actuator 21 is separated from the slider 23 and is located between adjacent center blocks 2.

[0058] During the position adjustment of the pressure block 4 along the length of the spine 1, it is connected by the pushing force of the electric actuator 21 located between adjacent center blocks 2. This can achieve both rigid connection of the adjacent center blocks 2 through the electric actuator 21 to maintain the support of the center blocks 2 for the local area of ​​the spine 1, so as to keep the spine 1 in the connected area of ​​the center blocks 2 straight; and after the electric actuator 21 enters the adjacent center block 2, the range change of the electric actuator 21 pushes the slider 23 to drive the connecting rod 22 and the pressure block 4 to adjust the position along the length of the spine 1, so that the support position of the pressure block 4 avoids the spinous process or costal joint, and improves the adjustability of the support position of the back skin.

[0059] In another embodiment, to improve the controllability of the engagement between the output shaft of the electric actuator 21 and the slider 23, an electromagnet is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the electric actuator 21. Through the magnetic attraction of the electromagnet to the slider 23, the position of the pressure block 4 is adjusted by the slider 23 and the connecting rod 22 during the extension length adjustment of the output shaft of the electromagnet, thereby achieving controllable adjustment of the position of the pressure block 4 on the skin of the back.

[0060] In another embodiment, according to the above-described position adjustment process of the pressure block 4, electric push rods 21 can be arranged on both sides of the center block 2 to push the slider 23, connecting rod 22 and pressure block 4 along the length direction of the center block 2 to adjust the position of the pressure block 4, so as to form more pressure block 4 support position adjustment processing.

[0061] A computing module is also fixedly connected to the central block 2. The computing module is used to input and store the posture mapping recognition model, and to obtain the abnormal position information of the corresponding abnormal spinal segment 1 based on the body surface pressure data substituted into the posture mapping recognition model. Then, the pressure adjustment mechanism is controlled based on the abnormal position information.

[0062] The calculation module includes a storage module, a pressure difference calculation module, an inflammation area marking module, and a pressure execution identification module. The storage module is used to input and store the morphological information of the spine 1, which includes the names and locations of each segment of the spine 1. According to the location information of each segment of the spine 1, the pressure sensors 41 and the first solenoid valve on both sides of the central block 2 are associated with the information. The pressure difference calculation module is used to calculate the pressure deviation of the same location information and the pressure gradient of adjacent location information according to the surface pressure data corresponding to the associated markers. The inflammation area marking module is used to input and store the pressure deviation and pressure gradient in the posture mapping recognition model to obtain the abnormal location information corresponding to the abnormal segment. The pressure execution identification module obtains the first solenoid valve corresponding to the pressure sensor 41 based on the abnormal location information and adjusts the power of the pumping component according to the magnitude of the pressure deviation and pressure gradient.

[0063] For example, the storage module, by pre-entering the location information of each segment of the spine 1 and establishing a one-to-one association between pressure sensor 41 and solenoid valve, achieves precise partitioning and correspondence of each susceptible deformity segment in the thoracolumbar region of the spine 1. This provides a structured data foundation for subsequent segmental data calculation and differentiated orthopedic control, avoiding the crude intervention defects of traditional equipment that provides uniform control across the entire domain without segmental differentiation. The pressure difference calculation module, relying on the associated markers to match corresponding surface pressure data, accurately calculates the pressure deviation of each segment and the pressure gradient of adjacent segments. It can quantify the stress imbalance state of different segments of the spine 1, achieving refined data representation of the posture deviation of the spine 1. This solves the problem that traditional equipment cannot quantify the degree of local deformity of the spine 1 and can only roughly judge postural abnormalities. The inflammation area marking module substitutes the pressure feature parameters calculated in real time into the posture mapping recognition model to accurately locate the abnormal lesion segments and abnormal locations of thoracic kyphosis and excessive lumbar lordosis. This achieves intelligent and precise recognition of deformed postures, overcoming the limitations of traditional equipment that relies on single posture alarms and cannot distinguish between deformity types and lesion locations.

[0064] The pressure execution identification module can accurately match the output power of the solenoid valve and pump component at the corresponding location based on the pressure deviation and pressure gradient level of abnormal sections, realizing dynamic, graded, and zoned flexible pressure control according to the severity of the deformity. The overall module works in concert, enabling the device to accurately identify the location of the deformity, avoid high-risk areas of inflammation, and output orthopedic force as needed. This avoids the problems of aggravated inflammation and wearing pain caused by the blind pressure of traditional rigid orthopedic structures, and maintains the normal sagittal alignment of the spine 1 through refined and individualized segmental mechanical intervention, actively guiding muscle groups to exert force to correct posture, effectively preventing orthopedic rebound, and significantly improving the safety, fit, and long-term rehabilitation effect of spinal deformity intervention for patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

[0065] To ensure the adaptability of spinal morphology information to different users, steady-state pressure values ​​of 8 pressure sensor points in the thoracic spine and 4 pressure sensor points in the lumbar spine are collected based on the user's neutral upright posture. These values ​​are used as the individual's corresponding spinal morphology information. The baseline pressure of the position information is defined as P0(i,j), where i represents the name of each segment of the spine and j represents the symmetrical points on the left and right sides. This is used to eliminate individual differences caused by different body types and different basic spinal morphologies.

[0066] The calculation steps of the posture mapping recognition model are as follows: During the body surface pressure data acquisition process, the pressure values ​​P(i,j) corresponding to each position information are collected in real time. After removing motion interference noise through the first-order moving average filtering algorithm, the relative pressure deviation ΔP(i,j)=P(i,j)-P0(i,j) of each channel is calculated to characterize the degree of deviation of the real-time force of each paravertebral region compared with the standard posture.

[0067] Based on this, the average pressure values ​​of the thoracic spine segment and the lumbar spine segment are constructed respectively, and the pressure gradient G between adjacent positions is obtained. The pressure gradient calculation formula is G=ΔP(i+1)-ΔP(i), where ΔP(i) is the pressure deviation of the i-th spinal segment, and ΔP(i+1) is the pressure deviation of the i-th spinal segment in the adjacent spinal segment i+1. This is used to characterize the trend of force change of adjacent segments along the longitudinal direction of the spine and accurately capture the mechanical distribution differences caused by local protrusions and depressions in the spine.

[0068] Based on the collected pressure deviation ΔP(i,j) and pressure gradient G, a linear mapping model between surface pressure characteristics and spinal sagittal curvature offset θ is constructed. The formula for the linear mapping model is θ=k·G_avg+b, where θ is the sagittal curvature offset of the target segment of the spine; k is the pre-calibrated pressure-curvature mapping coefficient, obtained from human spinal biomechanical calibration experiments; b is the baseline correction compensation coefficient, used to compensate for systematic errors caused by wearing tightness and clothing thickness; and G_avg is the average pressure gradient of the target segment.

[0069] For the identification of kyphosis in the T4-T11 thoracic spine, the average pressure gradient of the core kyphosis sensitive area in the middle thoracic spine is extracted. When the pressure in the middle thoracic spine increases significantly, the average pressure gradient G_avg of the area increases positively, and the calculated thoracic spine curvature offset θ exceeds the preset thoracic spine kyphosis threshold range, it is determined that the user has a thoracic spine kyphosis posture deviation. The larger the value of θ, the more significant the degree of thoracic spine kyphosis.

[0070] For the identification of compensatory excessive forward curvature of the L1-L4 lumbar spine, excessive forward curvature of the lumbar spine will lead to a decrease in the paravertebral contact pressure in the middle segment and a relative increase in the pressure at both ends. The average pressure gradient G_avg of the segment shows a negative gradient characteristic. When the calculated lumbar curvature deviation θ is lower than the preset lower limit threshold of the physiological curvature of the lumbar spine, it is determined that there is excessive forward curvature compensatory deformity of the lumbar spine.

[0071] To improve the stability and anti-interference capability of attitude recognition, the system introduces a section pressure uniformity coefficient δ to assist in correcting the judgment result. The formula for the uniformity coefficient is as follows: ;

[0072] Where i is the sequence number of the sensing point in the segment, and n is the total number of sensing units in the segment (thoracic vertebra n=8; lumbar vertebra n=4). Let be the relative pressure deviation of the i-th channel. (ΔP(i,j))=P(i,j)-P0(i,j); This represents the average pressure deviation of the section. The pressure uniformity coefficient δ represents the segmental pressure distribution; a smaller δ value indicates a more uniform pressure distribution and a spine posture closer to the standard neutral position, while a larger δ value indicates abnormal local curvature and unbalanced force distribution. By combining curvature offset θ and the pressure uniformity coefficient δ, a dual judgment is achieved, effectively avoiding misjudgments caused by fluctuations in a single data point. The overall algorithm continuously and iteratively executes real-time pressure acquisition, deviation calculation, gradient solving, curvature mapping, and multi-level threshold judgment. Through individualized baseline matching, mechanical feature quantification, and parameter compensation correction, it accurately achieves dynamic, continuous, and quantitative identification of two types of deformed postures characteristic of ankylosing spondylitis: thoracic kyphosis and lumbar compensatory excessive forward arch. This provides support for subsequent equipment segmented adaptive pressure adjustment, posture warning, and active muscle activation guidance.

[0073] The specific implementation process is as follows:

[0074] First, the central block 2 and pressure block 4 are fixed to the skin surface of the back using the support strap 3. Then, the arc-shaped cavity at the bottom of the central block 2 is used to provide support space for the placement of the spine 1, so as to reduce the contact between the spine 1 and the central block 2, ensure the patient's sensory comfort, and avoid applying pressure to the spine 1.

[0075] Meanwhile, as the support belt 3 drives the central block 2 to contact the body surface, the flexible contact layer 32 connected by the support belt 3 makes adaptive contact with the skin on the back. When it is necessary to adjust the pressure position of the pressure block 4 inside the contact layer 32, the connecting rod 22 drives the pressure block 4 to slide, so as to adjust the contact position between the pressure block 4 and the skin surface on the back.

[0076] Since the contact layer 32 is worn on the back skin through the support band 3, the central block 2 is supported by the pressure blocks 4 on both sides to avoid direct contact with the spine 1. The negative pressure chamber 43 above the pressure block 4 forms an adjustment space so that the air push rod 42 inside the negative pressure chamber 43 can be suctioned through the air tube 6 inside the connecting rod 22 to adjust the support position of the pressure block 4 inside the negative pressure chamber 43, thereby adjusting the surface pressure data of the current pressure block 4 on the back skin to reduce individualized adaptation to the location of inflammation.

[0077] Among them, the pressure sensor 41 is specifically positioned in the paravertebral soft tissue area corresponding to the T4-T11 thoracic vertebrae and L1-L4 lumbar vertebrae, avoiding the drawbacks of the sensor directly pressing on the spinous process. On the one hand, it prevents continuous pressure pain for patients with ankylosing spondylitis with ligament calcification and spinous process protrusion, improving wearing comfort; on the other hand, it relies on the paravertebral soft tissue to uniformly transmit mechanical load, effectively reducing the interference of bone morphology on the acquired signal, obtaining stable, continuous pressure data that can objectively reflect the sagittal plane mechanical distribution characteristics of the spine, greatly improving the data reliability of posture monitoring, and solving the problems of high sensor signal dispersion and measurement distortion in traditional equipment.

[0078] The device's built-in computing module constructs a complete hierarchical recognition and control system. It pre-inputs the location information of the first spinal segment and establishes association markers between pressure sensor 41 and solenoid valves, achieving a one-to-one correspondence between susceptible segments of the thoracolumbar spine. The computing module calibrates baseline pressure based on a posture mapping recognition model. Through moving average filtering, pressure deviation calculation, and pressure gradient calculation between adjacent segments, it solves for the sagittal curvature offset of the first spinal segment using a pressure curvature linear mapping model. Simultaneously, it introduces a segmental pressure uniformity coefficient as an auxiliary criterion, enabling dual recognition of two typical deformity postures: thoracic kyphosis and lumbar compensatory excessive forward curvature. The entire algorithm distinguishes between instantaneous micro-motion interference and continuous posture deviation, effectively reducing the probability of posture misjudgment and achieving a quantitative assessment of the degree of spinal deformity in the first spinal segment. This overcomes the limitations of traditional orthopedic devices that can only provide simple posture alarms and cannot quantify the severity of deformities.

[0079] The computing module can control the output power of the pumping components at the corresponding locations based on the identified abnormal segment locations and deformity quantification parameters, thus achieving zoned and graded flexible pressure regulation. Compared with traditional rigid orthopedic devices that apply constant pressure throughout the entire area, this device can accurately locate the deformed area, avoid high-risk inflammatory segments, and dynamically adjust the orthopedic force to prevent blind pressure from aggravating local inflammatory stimulation of the spine. Relying on dynamic targeted mechanical intervention, it continuously guides the spine to maintain a reasonable sagittal force line, slows down the ossification progression of the spine 1 ligaments, improves the imbalance of force on the spine 1 muscle groups, reduces the risk of rebound after postural correction, and significantly improves the safety, accuracy, and rehabilitation effect of long-term intervention for spinal deformities in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

[0080] Example 2:

[0081] The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the contact layer 32 is provided with several heat dissipation meshes 31 on the side away from the pressure sensor 41, and the heat dissipation meshes 31 are connected to the negative pressure chamber 43.

[0082] The specific implementation process is as follows: The heat dissipation mesh 31 provides large heat dissipation holes 7, which facilitates heat dissipation during the contact process between the contact layer 32 and the skin of the back. At the same time, the heat dissipation mesh 31 is connected to the negative pressure chamber 43, which facilitates heat transfer during the close contact between the pressure block 4 inside the negative pressure chamber 43 and the skin of the back. This facilitates the ventilation and heat dissipation of the local skin, especially suitable for heat dissipation in the inflamed area where the pressure block 4 is lifted by the air push rod 42 in the negative pressure chamber 43 and there is a gap between the pressure block 4 and the skin surface. This reduces the phenomenon of abnormal increase in body temperature caused by the heat generated by the inflamed area itself.

[0083] In another embodiment, a heat-conducting layer is fixedly connected to the side of the pressure block 4 away from the pressure sensor 41. In this embodiment, copper, which has good thermal conductivity, is used as the heat exchange layer. By enhancing the heat transfer effect between the pressure block 4 and the outside world through the heat-conducting layer, the heat accumulation at the contact point between the pressure block 4 and the skin is reduced, and skin breathability is improved, which is especially suitable for skin temperature regulation in inflamed areas.

[0084] Example 3:

[0085] Combination such as Figure 8 As shown, the difference from Embodiment 2 is that heat dissipation holes 7 are also opened on both sides of the central block 2, and a bimetallic strip 71 is provided in the heat dissipation hole 7. The top of the bimetallic strip 71 is fixedly connected to the central block 2. The heat dissipation hole 7 is also connected to a second pipe 62. The end of the second pipe 62 away from the heat dissipation hole 7 is connected to the negative pressure chamber 43. When the bimetallic strip 71 is heated and expands, the bimetallic strip 71 bends and makes the heat dissipation hole 7 connected to the second pipe 62. When the bimetallic strip 71 is in the normal state and does not deform, the bimetallic strip 71 blocks the heat dissipation hole 7.

[0086] The specific implementation process is as follows: The temperature change inside the negative pressure cavity 43 is detected and processed by the bimetallic strip 71. During the continuous sensing process of the bimetallic strip 71 being connected to the hot air in the second pipe 62 connected to the negative pressure cavity 43, the heat dissipation hole 7 is opened by utilizing the heating deformation of the bimetallic strip 71 to further improve the heat dissipation effect inside the negative pressure cavity 43.

[0087] In some other embodiments, the end of the second pipe 62 away from the heat dissipation hole 7 is connected to the air pipe 6, and the second pipe 62 is connected to a second solenoid valve.

[0088] The opening and closing state of the second tube 62 is controlled by the second solenoid valve, so that the second tube 62 is connected to the trachea 6. This allows the pump connected to the trachea 6 to transfer cold air from the outside to the negative pressure chamber 43 for cooling, thereby facilitating targeted cold compress treatment on the inflamed area to relieve the pain of inflammation and improve the patient's comfort.

[0089] Example 4:

[0090] The difference from Embodiment 3 is that a soft pad (not shown in the figure) is fixedly connected to the surface of the center block 2 and the surface of the contact layer 32, and the soft pad on the surface of the contact layer 32 is located between adjacent pressure blocks 4.

[0091] The specific implementation process is as follows: The soft padding provides better support and protection by creating a cushioning effect, thereby reducing hard damage during the contact process between the central block 2 and each segment of the spine 1, and providing cushioning protection when the contact layer 32 contacts the ribs or rib vertebrae, so as to avoid the force avoidance zone and ensure the comfort and safety of the patient during the wearing process.

[0092] Example 5:

[0093] The difference from Embodiment 4 is that an electrical stimulation module for generating microcurrents to stimulate muscles is fixedly connected inside the central block 2, and the output end of the electrical stimulation module is located on the side of the contact layer 32 close to the pressure block 4; the storage module also adds an association mark to the output end of the electrical stimulation module based on the position information of each segment of the spine 1; the pressure execution identification module also sends an execution command to the electrical stimulation module based on the abnormal position information.

[0094] For example, by positioning the output of the electrical stimulation module on the side of the contact layer 32 near the pressure block 4, targeted electrical stimulation intervention can be precisely performed on the paravertebral core muscle group area of ​​Spine 1. Simultaneously, the storage module, based on preset positional information of each segment of Spine 1, establishes an association marker between the output of the electrical stimulation module and the susceptible segments of Spine 1 deformity, achieving precise matching and linkage between the pressure abnormality area and the area of ​​electrical stimulation. After identifying abnormal positional information such as abnormal posture and segmental force imbalance of Spine 1, the pressure execution discrimination module can send working instructions to the corresponding associated electrical stimulation module. Based on the actual deviation of the patient's Spine 1 deformity, it precisely triggers local microcurrent output, directionally stimulating the active and spontaneous contraction of deep stabilizing muscle groups of Spine 1, such as the erector spinae and multifidus muscles in the thoracolumbar region. This design completely changes the traditional intervention mode of orthodontic devices that rely solely on external mechanical force for passive support and correction. It can dynamically correct poor posture of the S1 spine and maintain its normal sagittal alignment while continuously activating dormant and relaxed S1 spine muscles. This continuous exercise strengthens muscle activity and contraction ability, effectively improving muscle weakness and laxity caused by long-term postural abnormalities and immobilization correction, and fundamentally reducing disuse atrophy of deep S1 spine muscles. Through this dual intervention mode of mechanical flexible correction and active muscle activation, it avoids the drawbacks of traditional orthodontic devices, such as muscle degeneration and post-correction posture rebound caused by external force compensation. It continuously strengthens the support of S1 spine muscles, meeting the long-term rehabilitation needs of patients with ankylosing spondylitis, and effectively improving the long-term effectiveness and stability of deformity correction.

[0095] Example 6:

[0096] The difference from Embodiment 5 is that a base block 5 is provided at the bottom of the central block 2 away from the spine 1, and a second pressure sensor 41 is provided on the side of the base block 5 away from the central block 2. The second pressure sensor 41 is used to measure the second pressure data when the base block 5 contacts the buttocks, and then send the second pressure data to the pressure execution identification module. The pressure execution identification module is also used to compare the second pressure data with the set execution value. If the second pressure data is less than the execution value, a blank command is recorded. If the second pressure data is greater than the execution value, the duration is recorded, and then the duration is compared with the set start time. If the duration is greater than the start time, an execution confirmation command is recorded. If the duration is less than the start time, an execution stop command is recorded.

[0097] For example, the pressure execution identification module can accurately distinguish between a user's posture movement state and a long-term static sitting state by comparing real-time pressure data with preset execution values ​​and duration with preset start time in a hierarchical manner. When the second pressure data is less than the preset execution value, it is determined that the user is not in a static state, the system records a blank command and remains in standby mode to avoid invalid intervention; when the pressure data meets the standard and the duration exceeds the preset start time, it can accurately confirm that the user is in a static posture, automatically generate an execution confirmation command to activate the corresponding orthopedic and muscle activation control strategy, and short-term pressure triggers are identified as micro-posture interference, the execution stop command is recorded and the intervention is paused. This timing discrimination mechanism effectively filters out invalid working conditions such as daily slight body swaying and temporary sitting, eliminates the problem of frequent device start-stop and accidental activation of control, and can accurately identify high-risk scenarios of prolonged sitting for users to carry out targeted spinal posture correction and muscle activation intervention. Simultaneously, by dynamically adapting the device's operating logic based on the user's actual static state, the timing of orthopedic intervention and electrical stimulation of muscles is made more aligned with the daily rehabilitation scenarios of patients with ankylosing spondylitis. This not only improves the accuracy and stability of the device's intelligent control but also continuously and specifically addresses muscle atrophy and spinal posture fixation caused by prolonged sitting, significantly enhancing long-term rehabilitation and corrective effects.

[0098] 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. An adjustable dynamic spinal orthosis for patients with ankylosing spondylitis, comprising a plurality of central blocks (2) arranged along the length of the central axis of the spine (1), wherein a plurality of support straps (3) are fixedly connected to both sides of the central blocks (2), and the support straps (3) are provided with an adhesive mechanism for adjusting the fitting length of the support straps (3); characterized in that, Several pressure sensors (41) are arranged on the side of the support belt (3) close to the spine (1). The pressure sensors (41) are used to measure the surface pressure data of the support belt (3) and each segment of the spine (1). The center block (2) is fixedly connected to pressure blocks (4) on both sides for contact with the skin of the back. The center block (2) is provided with a pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pressure data and contact position of the pressure blocks (4) when they contact the skin of the back. A computing module is also fixedly connected to the central block (2). The computing module is used to input and store the posture mapping recognition model, and to obtain the abnormal position information of the corresponding abnormal spine (1) segment by substituting the body surface pressure data into the posture mapping recognition model. Then, the pressure adjustment mechanism is controlled based on the abnormal position information.

2. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support belt (3) is positioned to correspond to the chest and abdomen of the human body.

3. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The measurement position of the pressure sensor (41) corresponds to the soft tissue next to the kyphotic segment of the thoracic end T4-T11 and the soft tissue next to the kyphotic segment of the lumbar end L1 to L4.

4. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The central block (2) is elliptical, and an arc-shaped cavity is opened on the side of the central block (2) near the spine (1); a contact layer (32) is fixedly connected between the central block (2) and the support belt (3), and the contact layer (32) is used to connect the adjacent support belt (3). The pressure adjustment mechanism includes several connecting rods (22) that slide with the center block (2). The connecting rods (22) are symmetrically arranged with the center block (2) as the center, and the connecting rods (22) are located between adjacent center blocks (2). Each connecting rod (22) is fixedly connected to one side with an elastic pressure block (4). The pressure block (4) slides with the center block (2) and is located inside the support belt (3). The pressure sensor (41) is arranged between the pressure block (4) and the skin on the back. The center of the connecting rod (22) is connected to an air pipe (6), and the end of the air pipe (6) away from the connecting rod (22) is connected to a pump. The support belt (3) also has a negative pressure chamber (43) for the connecting rod (22) to slide. The negative pressure chamber (43) is connected to several air push rods (42). The air push rods (42) and the air pipe (6) are connected to a first pipe (61). The first pipe (61) is connected to a first solenoid valve.

5. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The pressure adjustment mechanism also includes an electric push rod (21) fixedly connected to the center block (2). The output shaft of the electric push rod (21) is engaged with a slider (23). The slider (23) slides with the center block (2), and the slider (23) is fixedly connected to the connecting rod (22). When the electric actuator (21) is at its minimum range, the output end of the electric actuator (21) is separated from the slider (23), and the output end of the electric actuator (21) is hidden in the center block (2) on one side; when the electric actuator (21) is at its maximum range, the output end of the electric actuator (21) is separated from the slider (23), and the output end of the electric actuator (21) is located between adjacent center blocks (2).

6. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The computation module includes a storage module, a pressure difference calculation module, an inflammation area marking module, and a pressure execution identification module; The storage module is used to input and store the morphological information of the spine (1). The morphological information of the spine (1) includes the names and locations of each segment of the spine (1). According to the location information of each segment of the spine (1), the pressure sensors (41) and the first solenoid valve on both sides of the central block (2) are associated with each other. The pressure difference calculation module is used to calculate the pressure deviation of the same location information and the pressure gradient of adjacent location information according to the body surface pressure data corresponding to the associated markers. The inflammation area marking module is used to input and store the posture mapping recognition model. The pressure deviation and pressure gradient are substituted into the posture mapping recognition model to obtain the abnormal location information corresponding to the abnormal segment. The pressure execution identification module obtains the first solenoid valve corresponding to the pressure sensor (41) based on the abnormal position information, and adjusts the power of the pumping component based on the magnitude of the pressure deviation and pressure gradient.

7. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The contact layer (32) is provided with several heat dissipation meshes (31) on the side away from the pressure sensor (41), and the heat dissipation meshes (31) are connected to the negative pressure chamber (43).

8. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, A heat-conducting layer is fixedly connected to the side of the pressure block (4) away from the pressure sensor (41).

9. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The center block (2) also has heat dissipation holes (7) on both sides, and a bimetallic strip (71) is provided in the heat dissipation hole (7). The top of the bimetallic strip (71) is fixedly connected to the center block (2). The heat dissipation hole (7) is also connected to the second tube (62), and the end of the second tube (62) away from the heat dissipation hole (7) is connected to the negative pressure chamber (43); when the bimetallic strip (71) is heated and expands, the bimetallic strip (71) bends and the heat dissipation hole (7) is connected to the second tube (62); when the bimetallic strip (71) is in a normal state and does not deform, the bimetallic strip (71) blocks the heat dissipation hole (7).

10. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The end of the second pipe (62) away from the heat dissipation hole (7) is connected to the air pipe (6), and the second pipe (62) is connected to the second solenoid valve.

11. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, A soft pad is fixedly connected to the surface of the center block (2) and the surface of the contact layer (32), and the soft pad on the surface of the contact layer (32) is located between adjacent pressure blocks (4).

12. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, An electrical stimulation module for generating microcurrents to stimulate muscles is fixedly connected inside the central block (2). The output end of the electrical stimulation module is located on the side of the contact layer (32) near the pressure block (4). The storage module also adds associated markers to the output of the electrical stimulation module based on the position information of each segment of the spine (1); The pressure execution identification module also sends execution instructions to the electrical stimulation module based on abnormal location information.

13. The adjustable dynamic spinal (1) orthopedic device for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, A base block (5) is provided at the bottom of the central block (2) away from the spine (1). A second pressure sensor (41) is provided on the side of the base block (5) away from the central block (2). The second pressure sensor (41) is used to measure the second pressure data when the base block (5) contacts the buttocks, and then sends the second pressure data to the pressure execution identification module. The pressure execution identification module is also used to compare the second pressure data with the set execution value. If the second pressure data is less than the execution value, a blank instruction is recorded. If the second pressure data is greater than the execution value, the duration is recorded. The duration is then compared with the set start time. If the duration is greater than the start time, an execution confirmation instruction is recorded. If the duration is less than the start time, an execution stop instruction is recorded.

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