An adjustable smart orthotic brace for post-scoliosis

Abstract

The application discloses an adjustable intelligent orthopedic brace after scoliosis surgery, and relates to the technical field of medical devices. The brace body module is shaped to fit the patient's torso, covering the thoracolumbar segment or the pelvic region. The adjustable connection structure is arranged on the front side or the side edge of the brace, including a plurality of pull strap systems for adjusting the local clamping angle and the fitting pressure of the brace. The pressure sensing unit is arranged in the key stress area on the inner side of the brace, using a flexible thin film pressure sensor array arrangement to detect the contact pressure between the brace and the patient's skin in real time. The data acquisition and communication module includes a Bluetooth data communication module and a microcontroller MCU for collecting sensor data and sending it to a mobile terminal through a Bluetooth protocol. The ergonomic cushion layer is arranged on the inner surface of the brace and is made of breathable and antibacterial material to buffer local pressure. The application integrates mechanical adjustment structure, sensor module and remote control function to realize dynamic adjustment and monitoring of postoperative orthopedic force.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to an adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for use after scoliosis surgery. Background Technology

[0002] Scoliosis is a common spinal deformity, and severe cases often require surgery to restore spinal alignment. Post-operatively, patients need to wear orthotic braces long-term to stabilize the spinal shape and control residual deformity. Traditional orthotic braces are mostly statically designed, which has the following drawbacks:

[0003] Poor fit: The brace does not match the patient's torso well, which can easily lead to uneven local pressure and affect the correction effect;

[0004] Inconvenient adjustment: The orthopedic angle and pressure cannot be dynamically adjusted according to the postoperative recovery stage, requiring frequent changes of the brace, which increases the burden on the patient;

[0005] Lack of data feedback: The contact pressure between the brace and the skin cannot be monitored in real time, which may easily cause pressure sores or discomfort if worn for a long time;

[0006] Limited functionality: It only provides mechanical support and cannot be integrated with medical systems to achieve intelligent management.

[0007] With the development of digital medical technology, there is an urgent need for a smart orthopedic brace that can be dynamically adjusted, monitored in real time, and supported for remote management, in order to improve postoperative rehabilitation and patient compliance. Utility Model Content

[0008] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides an adjustable intelligent orthopedic brace for scoliosis surgery, integrating a mechanical adjustment structure, a sensor module, and remote control functionality to achieve dynamic adjustment and monitoring of postoperative orthopedic force. The technical solution is as follows:

[0009] This application provides an adjustable intelligent orthopedic brace for scoliosis surgery, comprising a main body module, an adjustable connection structure, a pressure sensing unit, a data acquisition and communication module, and an ergonomic padding layer. The main body module conforms to the patient's torso and covers the thoracolumbar region or pelvic area. The adjustable connection structure is located on the front or side edge of the brace and includes multiple strap systems for adjusting the local clamping angle and contact pressure. The pressure sensing unit is located in the key stress area on the inner side of the brace and uses a flexible thin-film pressure sensor array to detect the contact pressure between the brace and the patient's skin in real time. The data acquisition and communication module includes a Bluetooth data communication module and a microcontroller (MCU) for collecting sensor data and transmitting it to a mobile terminal via Bluetooth. The ergonomic padding layer is located on the inner surface of the brace and is made of breathable and antibacterial material to buffer local pressure.

[0010] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the adjustable connection structure includes a knob or magnetic control element that adjusts local tension by driving a tensioning system, the tensioning system being connected to a fine-tuning paddle structure for remote fine-tuning.

[0011] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthopedic brace for scoliosis surgery, the main body module of the brace includes a detachable adjustment unit for replacing the positioning support structure required for different recovery stages, and the adjustment unit is connected to the main body of the brace through an embedded flexible circuit.

[0012] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, an elastic restraint band is provided in the chest area structure of the main body module of the brace for multi-point circumferential fixation of the thoracic cavity to prevent postoperative upper scoliosis regression.

[0013] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the pressure sensing units are arranged in an array in the shoulder, waist and pelvic regions, and the sensor signals are transmitted to the microcontroller through a cable connection channel.

[0014] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the pressure sensing unit includes a flexible thin-film resistive pressure sensor with a sensing range of 0-50N, a thickness of less than 0.25mm, a response time of less than 10ms, connected to the control board via an FFC flexible cable, and encapsulated with a medical-grade silicone film.

[0015] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the data acquisition and communication module uses a low-power Bluetooth communication chip, supports encrypted data transmission, and communicates via I... 2 The module acquires sensor data via a Type-C interface and integrates a 500mAh lithium battery, supporting a Type-C charging interface.

[0016] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the microcontroller has a sleep management function, supports a deep sleep mode, and integrates Bluetooth control capabilities to coordinate data acquisition and wireless communication.

[0017] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the brace supports docking with a 3D printing system or a hospital rehabilitation platform to achieve dynamic optimization and remote control of orthotic parameters. The main body module of the brace is based on individualized design using three-dimensional modeling and is made of flexible thermoplastic material.

[0018] The beneficial effects of an adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery provided in some embodiments of this application are as follows:

[0019] (1) Personalized fit: The main body of the support is customized through modular design and 3D modeling, which significantly improves the fit and avoids correction deviation caused by size mismatch.

[0020] (2) Dynamic adjustment capability: The adjustable connection structure works in conjunction with the pressure sensing unit to achieve real-time optimization of the orthopedic force and reduce the need for postoperative secondary adjustment.

[0021] (3) Reduced risk of pressure injury: Local pressure is monitored in real time by a flexible thin film pressure sensor, which, combined with a cushioning pad, effectively prevents skin damage.

[0022] (4) Data-driven decision-making: Stress data is synchronized to the medical platform via Bluetooth communication module, supporting doctors to remotely formulate orthopedic strategies and improve rehabilitation efficiency.

[0023] (5) Expandability and compatibility: The brace can be connected to 3D printing systems and hospital rehabilitation platforms, and is suitable for various postoperative fixation scenarios (such as thoracolumbar region, pelvis, etc.). Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the wearable state of the adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the microcontroller module structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the pressure sensing unit structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this disclosure shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as “comprising” or “including” mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as “connected” or “linked” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “left,” and “right” are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described objects changes.

[0031] This application provides an adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for use after scoliosis surgery, such as... Figure 1-4 As shown, it includes:

[0032] The main body module 10 of the brace is shaped to fit the patient's torso and covers the thoracolumbar region or pelvic region. The main body module 10 of the brace is based on three-dimensional modeling and individualized design. It is made of flexible thermoplastic material. By combining flexible thermoplastic material with three-dimensional modeling, individualized fit is ensured, and the correction accuracy and comfort are improved.

[0033] The adjustable connection structure 13 is located on the front or side edge of the brace and includes multiple strap systems for adjusting the local clamping angle and fitting pressure of the brace. The local pressure is dynamically adjusted through the strap system to adapt to the orthopedic needs of different recovery stages.

[0034] The pressure sensing unit 14 is located in the key stress area inside the brace. It uses a flexible thin-film pressure sensor array to detect the contact pressure between the brace and the patient's skin in real time, so as to avoid skin damage caused by excessive pressure.

[0035] The data acquisition and communication module 20 includes a Bluetooth data communication module and a microcontroller (MCU), which is used to acquire sensor data and send it to the mobile terminal via Bluetooth protocol to realize wireless data transmission, which facilitates remote monitoring and intervention by doctors.

[0036] An ergonomic padding layer, located on the inner surface of the brace, is made of breathable and antibacterial material. It is used to cushion local pressure, reduce the risk of infection through antibacterial and breathable materials, and improve wearing comfort by cushioning pressure.

[0037] The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery described in this application adopts a modular structure design, integrating an angle adjustment mechanism, a built-in pressure sensor, and a Bluetooth data acquisition module. It can realize independent adjustment of multiple parts and remote data analysis, assisting doctors in optimizing the fit and orthotic effect of the brace in real time after surgery.

[0038] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, such as Figure 1-3 As shown, the adjustable connection structure 13 includes a knob or magnetic control element, which adjusts the local tension by driving the tensioning system to achieve local clamping or release of the brace. The tensioning system is connected to the fine-tuning lever structure 15 for remote fine-tuning. The knob or magnetic control element provides a convenient way to adjust the local tension, and the fine-tuning lever enables remote and precise control, reducing the complexity of operation.

[0039] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthopedic brace for scoliosis surgery, the main body module 10 of the brace includes a detachable adjustment unit for replacing the positioning support structure required for different recovery stages. The adjustment unit is connected to the main body of the brace through an embedded flexible circuit, allowing for quick replacement of the support structure to adapt to different recovery stages after surgery and reducing the overall replacement cost of the brace.

[0040] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, such as Figure 1-2 As shown, the chest area structure 11 of the main body module 10 of the brace is provided with an elastic restraint band 12. The chest area structure 11 is used to fix the thoracic cavity and prevent the upper part from bending back after surgery. The elastic restraint band 12 is used to wrap around the main body of the brace at multiple points to enhance the overall fixation force.

[0041] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, such as Figure 1-4As shown, the pressure sensing units 14 are arranged in an array in the shoulder, waist, and pelvic areas, placed in key contact areas to monitor pressure values ​​and provide feedback on the contact status between the brace and the skin. The sensor signals are transmitted to the microcontroller (20) through the cable connection channel 30. The cable connection channel 30 provides a path for signal transmission between the sensor and the control chip and has a protective function. The pressure sensing unit (14) includes a flexible thin-film resistive pressure sensor with a sensing range of 0-50N, a thickness of less than 0.25mm, and a response time of less than 10ms. It is connected to the control board through an FFC flexible ribbon cable and is encapsulated with a medical-grade silicone film. The sensor array covers key areas such as the shoulder, waist, and pelvis to comprehensively monitor pressure distribution and optimize the orthopedic strategy.

[0042] Specifically, a flexible thin-film resistive pressure sensor, such as the FlexiForce A201, can be selected. This sensor features a flat structure, high sensitivity, and stable signal, making it suitable for curved surfaces and human contact applications. Typical parameters include a sensing range of 0–50N, a thickness of less than 0.25mm, a response time of less than 10ms, and a bending life of over 100,000 cycles. The sensors are arranged in an array in key areas such as the shoulders, waist, and pelvis, connected to the control board via FFC flexible cables, and encapsulated with a medical-grade silicone film. This ensures both breathability and cushioning, preventing localized pressure injuries from prolonged wear.

[0043] The FlexiForce A201 is an ultra-thin, flexible resistive pressure sensor widely used in medical rehabilitation, orthopedic assistive devices, and body pressure monitoring. This sensor features high sensitivity, a thin structure, and fast response, making it suitable for embedded fitting into the human body or curved surfaces of devices for real-time pressure change data acquisition. Its key parameters include: sensing range: 0–110N (customizable to 0–4.4N, 0–25lb, etc.); thickness: approximately 0.203mm; sensitive area diameter: 9.53mm; response time: <5 microseconds; interface: analog resistance output (adapted to voltage divider / op-amp acquisition); recommended operating temperature: 15–40℃; lifespan: >100,000 bends. The flexible thin-film characteristics of the FlexiForce A201 make it particularly suitable for monitoring skin-bracing contact pressure in the intelligent orthopedic braces of this application. Its output signal can be acquired in real-time via an integrated MCU module and uploaded to a mobile terminal or data platform for dynamic adjustment of brace fit and optimization of correction strategies.

[0044] According to the above embodiments, the FlexiForce sensor is used, with an ultra-thin and flexible design (thickness <0.25mm) to ensure imperceptible wearing, and high sensitivity (response time <10ms) to improve monitoring accuracy; medical-grade silicone encapsulation enhances the sensor's durability and adapts to long-term wear scenarios.

[0045] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, such as Figure 1-3 As shown, the data acquisition and communication module uses a low-power Bluetooth communication chip, supports encrypted data transmission, and communicates via I... 2 The module acquires sensor data via a Type-C interface and integrates a 500mAh lithium battery, supporting a Type-C charging interface.

[0046] Specifically, a low-power Bluetooth communication chip (BLE 5.0), such as the Nordic nRF52032 series, is selected, which features low power consumption, stable connection, and strong anti-interference capabilities. This module connects via I... 2 The Type-C interface acquires digital data from the pressure sensor and transmits it to mobile devices via Bluetooth in encrypted format (AES120). The system supports both broadcast and pairing connection modes, and can directly interface with doctor-side apps, mini-programs, or rehabilitation systems. The MCU uses a low-power chip with integrated Bluetooth control capabilities and features sleep management functionality (Deep Sleep mode). The system is powered by a 500mAh lithium battery, supports a Type-C charging interface, and can operate continuously for at least 24 hours on a full charge. The entire data communication unit is highly integrated with the main control circuit board, encapsulated in a flexible TPU or ABS shell, allowing it to be placed on the back of the brace or in the waist belt without affecting wearing comfort or ease of operation.

[0047] According to the above embodiments, the Bluetooth Low Energy chip (BLE 5.0) ensures data transmission stability and security (AES120 encryption), and the 500mAh battery supports 24-hour battery life, meeting the needs of all-weather monitoring.

[0048] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable smart orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the microcontroller 20 has a sleep management function, supports a deep sleep mode, and integrates Bluetooth control capabilities to coordinate data acquisition and wireless communication. The sleep management mode reduces microcontroller power consumption, extends device battery life, and improves user experience.

[0049] The core control unit of this application is an embedded microcontroller (MCU), whose task is to coordinate functions such as data acquisition from the pressure sensor, wireless communication, and power management. A BLE 5.0 chip is recommended, as it features dual-core processing capabilities, a low-power sleep mode, and built-in WiFi and BLE dual-protocol modules, making it suitable for medical wearable applications.

[0050] For example, in one embodiment of the adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery, the brace supports docking with a 3D printing system or a hospital rehabilitation platform, is customized based on 3D modeling, fits the patient's torso to form an overall orthotic frame, realizes dynamic optimization and remote control of orthotic parameters, realizes automated adjustment of orthotic parameters, supports the formulation of personalized rehabilitation plans, and improves medical efficiency.

[0051] Although the embodiments of this application have been disclosed above, they are not limited to the applications listed in the specification and embodiments. They can be applied to various fields suitable for this application. For those skilled in the art, other modifications can be easily made. Therefore, without departing from the general concept defined by the claims and their equivalents, this application is not limited to the specific details and the illustrations shown and described herein.

Claims

1. An adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for use after scoliosis surgery, characterized in that, include: The main module of the brace is shaped to fit the patient's torso and covers the thoracolumbar or pelvic region. An adjustable connection structure, located on the front or side edge of the brace, includes multiple strap systems for adjusting the local clamping angle and contact pressure of the brace; The pressure sensing unit is located in the key stress area inside the brace and uses a flexible thin-film pressure sensor array to detect the contact pressure between the brace and the patient's skin in real time. The data acquisition and communication module, including a Bluetooth data communication module and a microcontroller (MCU), is used to acquire sensor data and send it to a mobile terminal via the Bluetooth protocol. An ergonomic padding layer, located on the inner surface of the brace, is made of breathable and antibacterial material and is used to cushion local pressure.

2. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adjustable connection structure includes a knob or magnetic control element, which adjusts the local tension by driving the tensioning system. The tensioning system is connected to a fine-tuning paddle structure to achieve remote fine-tuning.

3. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body module of the brace includes a detachable adjustment unit for replacing the positioning support structure required for different recovery stages. The adjustment unit is connected to the main body of the brace via an embedded flexible circuit.

4. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chest area structure of the main body module of the brace is equipped with elastic restraint straps for multi-point circumferential fixation of the thoracic cavity to prevent postoperative upper lateral bending and regression.

5. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure sensing units are arranged in an array in the shoulder, waist and pelvic areas, and the sensor signals are transmitted to the microcontroller through the cable connection channel.

6. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pressure sensing unit includes a flexible thin-film resistive pressure sensor with a sensing range of 0-50N, a thickness of less than 0.25mm, a response time of less than 10ms, and is connected to the control board via an FFC flexible cable and encapsulated with a medical-grade silicone film.

7. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The data acquisition and communication module uses a low-power Bluetooth communication chip, supports encrypted data transmission, and communicates via I... 2 The module acquires sensor data via a Type-C interface and integrates a 500mAh lithium battery, supporting a Type-C charging interface.

8. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The microcontroller has a sleep management function, supports a deep sleep mode, and integrates Bluetooth control capabilities, enabling it to coordinate data acquisition and wireless communication.

9. The adjustable intelligent orthotic brace for scoliosis surgery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The brace supports interface with 3D printing systems or hospital rehabilitation platforms to achieve dynamic optimization and remote control of orthopedic parameters. The main module of the brace is based on individualized design using three-dimensional modeling and is made of flexible thermoplastic material.

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