Adjustable Backrest with Cable Tensioning for Spinal Deformity Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheelchair backrests fail to adequately accommodate and support spinal deformities such as kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis, leading to discomfort, skin integrity issues, and limited mobility due to inadequate adjustability and pressure distribution.
Innovation Solution
A backrest with a reinforced frame and adjustable tensioning mechanisms that allow anterior and posterior adjustments, featuring a large central aperture and variably adjustable straps to accommodate different spinal shapes, reducing pressure points and providing uniform support across the back.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional solid backrest is used, then structural strength is maintained, but pressure distribution is poor and skin integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest incorporates a mesh or porous structural design that allows pressure redistribution while maintaining structural integrity. The porous configuration reduces continuous contact pressure points on the user's back, preventing skin breakdown while the overall frame structure maintains necessary strength support.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest is divided into multiple segments or zones with varying degrees of support and openness. This segmentation allows different areas to provide appropriate pressure distribution - more open areas for pressure relief and structured areas for support - thereby protecting skin integrity while maintaining overall structural strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed backrest design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different spinal deformities is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration to accommodate different spinal deformities. Elements such as adjustable lateral supports, variable angle positioning, and reconfigurable strapping systems enable the same structure to adapt to kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis, and other postural variations without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest is designed as a universal support system that can accommodate multiple types of spinal deformities and user needs through a single multi-functional structure. The design integrates various adjustment mechanisms that allow one device to serve multiple therapeutic and comfort functions across different user conditions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If uniform support across the back is provided, then stability is maintained, but pressure points on spinal deformities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest employs local quality variation where different zones provide different types and amounts of support. Areas surrounding spinal deformities feature reduced pressure contact with localized cushioning, while other areas maintain firm support for postural stability. This differentiated approach reduces pressure points on vulnerable areas while preserving overall postural control.
Data Source
AI summary
A back support for use with a chair includes a first support, a second support spaced from the first support, and an adjustable support extending between the first and second supports, the adjustable support includes a cable and an adjustable tensioning assembly operably connected to the cable, wherein in response to actuation of the adjustable tensioning assembly a length of exposed cable changes.