Adjustable Brace with Pneumatic Compression for Limb Swelling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional casts for limb injuries, such as fractures, are inflexible and can cause discomfort due to fixed compression, which may be too tight initially and loose as swelling recedes, lacking adjustability and proper support for misaligned limbs.
Innovation Solution
Development of adjustable braces with compressible materials and mechanical fasteners that allow for customizable support and pressure distribution, incorporating air cells with valves for pneumatic compression and removable supports to accommodate swelling and facilitate treatment without removing the brace.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plaster cast is applied to stabilize a fractured limb, then the limb is properly aligned and stabilized during healing, but the cast becomes too tightly compressed for some patients and too loosely attached over time as swelling recedes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the static plaster cast with a dynamic brace system featuring an adjustable casing that can be modified over time. The casing includes multiple adjustment mechanisms (straps, buckles, laces) that allow the compression level to be changed as the patient's swelling decreases, maintaining proper stabilization while adapting to changing limb dimensions throughout the healing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by enabling modification of the physical parameters of the brace, specifically the compression force and circumference of the casing. The adjustment mechanisms allow clinicians to change these parameters as the limb heals and swelling recedes, transforming the fixed-parameter cast into a variable-parameter support system that maintains optimal stabilization throughout recovery.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid cast is used to immobilize the injured limb, then the limb position is fixed and stable, but the cast causes discomfort and cannot be adjusted for patient comfort or changing swelling conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static rigid cast into a dynamic adjustable brace. The casing is designed with multiple adjustment points including straps, buckles, and lacing systems that allow the structure to be modified for comfort while maintaining limb stability. This dynamic design enables the brace to adapt to patient comfort needs and changing swelling conditions without compromising the immobilization function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible shell principles by using a casing made from materials that can be adjusted in tightness rather than a completely rigid structure. The flexible casing with its adjustment mechanisms allows the brace to conform to the limb's shape and provide comfortable, customizable compression while still maintaining sufficient rigidity to stabilize the fracture.
3Reliability
If a compression cast is applied to stabilize the fracture, then the limb is supported and aligned, but the cast cannot be removed for medical checks or procedures without compromising the stabilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by designing the brace as a modular system with separable components. The casing can be partially or fully removed or opened while leaving other components in place, allowing medical professionals to access the limb for checks or procedures without completely removing the stabilization device. This segmented design maintains reliability during healing while providing ease of access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic nature of the adjustable brace allows it to be temporarily modified or opened for medical procedures and then re-closed to resume stabilization. Unlike a permanent cast, the adjustable casing can be dynamically opened and closed, providing flexibility for medical access while maintaining continuous stabilization capability.
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 braces provide flexible and adjustable support, reducing discomfort by allowing for precise alignment and stabilization of injured limbs, managing swelling, and enabling continued treatment without removing the brace for medical checks or procedures.
Implementation Method 1
compressible material at least partially enclosed by the adjustable casing
Data Source
AI summary
Braces are disclosed that are capable of stabilizing an injured limb, particularly an injured wrist. An exemplary brace fits across the injury in contact with the user's hand or foot and, in certain embodiments, in contact with the thumb and/or fingers or toes. The brace typically contains an adjustable casing and in some embodiments a removable support connecting one portion of the user's arm to another. The brace also includes compressible material such as an air cell. Systems and method for use and manufacture of the braces are also contemplated.