Actuator Orthopedic Brace Abduction Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic braces lack easy adjustability to increase the abduction range of motion of the shoulder after shoulder surgery, particularly for rotator cuff repairs, which is essential for effective recovery and rehabilitation.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic brace equipped with an actuator system comprising threaded bodies that allow for extension and retraction, providing angular adjustment and increased range of motion, enabling the arm to be moved from a retracted to an extended position, facilitating shoulder and arm rehabilitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed position brace is used, then the arm is supported in a stable position, but the abduction range of motion cannot be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The brace incorporates an actuator system with threaded bodies that allow dynamic adjustment of the arm position. The first and second threaded bodies engage with each other, enabling the arm to be moved between retracted and extended positions, transforming the static brace into a dynamic device that can adapt to different rehabilitation stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is divided into multiple threaded bodies (first threaded body, second threaded body, and third threaded body) that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows for precise control of the arm position while maintaining a manageable structural complexity, as each threaded body can be adjusted separately during rehabilitation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple braces are used to increase range of motion, then abduction capability is improved, but the quantity of devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single brace incorporates a multi-functional actuator system that can perform multiple functions: supporting the arm in a retracted position, extending the arm to increase abduction range, and providing angular adjustment. This eliminates the need for multiple separate braces, as one device can accomplish what previously required several different devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of multiple braces into a single integrated device. The actuator system merges the support function and the range-of-motion extension function into one unified brace, reducing the total quantity of devices needed from multiple separate braces to one multi-functional unit.
3Ease of operation
If the arm is moved closer to the body, then initial support is provided, but subsequent abduction movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is designed to be easily adjusted by the patient themselves during rehabilitation. The threaded bodies can be manually rotated to extend or retract the arm, providing self-service adjustment without requiring complex mechanical systems or professional intervention. This makes the adjustment process simple and accessible to patients.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace transitions from a static support device to a dynamic adjustment device. The threaded bodies enable the arm position to be changed from a fixed close-to-body position to an extended abduction position, providing ease of movement while maintaining manageable complexity through the use of simple threaded mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The actuator system in the orthopedic brace allows for adjustable support and increased range of motion, aiding in the rehabilitation of the shoulder and arm by enabling controlled stretching and movement, thereby improving recovery outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator which is movable to extend and retract the arm platform relative to the body brace, the actuator comprising a first threaded body, a second threaded body and a third threaded body
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments provide a brace which includes an actuator. The actuator provides movement of the arm and shoulder, abduction movement, so that during recovery from shoulder surgery, the shoulder and arm movement may be supported in increased range of motion positions. This may be done with a single brace rather than requiring multiple braces during the recovery process.