Adjustable Leg Lifter Strap for Independent Mobility

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Individuals with lower extremity injuries or limited strength often require assistance to move due to mobility limitations and constraints imposed by casts or braces, lacking effective mobility aids that allow independent movement.

Innovation Solution

A leg lifter with a wrapping portion and adjustable strap featuring a hook and loop fastener, orthogonal extension, and a clip fastener at the distal end, enabling users to manually lift their legs without assistance by attaching to clothing or a wrist cuff, allowing for adjustable length and independent mobility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If prior art leg lifting devices are used, then leg lifting function is provided, but the devices lack adjustability and cannot be securely attached to clothing

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates an adjustable strap with a clip fastener that can be modified in length and securely attached to clothing, transforming a static device into a dynamic, adaptable one that fits different users and clothing types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The leg lifter is designed to be universally applicable by including an adjustable strap that can attach to various types of clothing through a clip fastener, making it suitable for different users and situations beyond its basic leg lifting function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If prior art leg lifting devices are used, then leg lifting function is provided, but assistance from caretakers is still required

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveindependenceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables users to independently lift and position their own legs without requiring assistance from caretakers, allowing them to perform transfers, positioning, and mobility tasks autonomously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable strap with clip fastener acts as an intermediary mechanism that connects the user's clothing to the leg lifting device, enabling the user to control and operate the device themselves rather than requiring direct physical assistance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10130545B2Leg lifter
Publication Date: 2018.11.20 CROWLEY RICHARD J
  • US10130545B2 patent drawing
  • US10130545B2 patent drawing
  • US10130545B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a leg lifter for those having lower extremity injuries or limited lower extremity strength to facilitate movement. The leg lifter includes a wrapping portion configured to encircle a user's ankle via a fastener. The wrapping portion further includes an adjustable strap that extends outwardly and orthogonally from substantially a midpoint of the wrapping portion. The adjustable strap includes a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is affixed to the wrapping portion. The distal end is adapted to be held by a user for lifting the adjustable strap, thus causing the user's lower extremity to be lifted. The distal end further includes a fastener that allows a user to removably attach the distal end to his or her clothing. The adjustable strap is configured to be lengthened or shortened to improve a user's movement and achieve independence from caretakers.