Adjustable Lower Leg Restraint for Patient-Specific Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Ilizarov ring and rigid boot combination for immobilizing the foot is not adaptable to a wide range of patient configurations, making it difficult to provide effective restraint and mobility for lower leg and foot injuries, which hinders recovery.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable restraint system for the lower leg and/or foot comprising a plantar plate surrounded by a peripheral element with vertically and horizontally positioned supports, a lower leg securing housing attachable through adjustable fasteners, allowing for vertical and horizontal adjustments to accommodate various patient needs and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid boot with sole is combined with Ilizarov ring to immobilize the foot, then immobilization effectiveness is improved, but adaptability to various patient configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is divided into multiple independent components: Ilizarov ring, rigid boot, plantar plate, and support structure. Each component can be independently adjusted or removed, allowing customization for different patient configurations while maintaining immobilization effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustable and removable elements (plantar plate, support structure with variable positioning) that allow the restraint system to adapt dynamically to different patient anatomies and treatment requirements, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamically adjustable one.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the restraint structure is made rigid to ensure immobilization, then stability of the restrained foot is improved, but ease of adjustment for different patients deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid restraint structure is segmented into adjustable components including the plantar plate and support structure, allowing specific portions to be modified or repositioned without compromising the overall rigidity and stability of the immobilization system.
Solution Approach 2:
The plantar plate and support structure are pre-configured with adjustment mechanisms that allow quick adaptation to different patient configurations before final immobilization, facilitating ease of operation while maintaining subsequent stability.
3Weight of moving object
If the restraint device is made lightweight to enhance mobility, then patient mobility is improved, but structural strength for surgical application deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint device utilizes composite construction combining lightweight materials (such as carbon fiber or aluminum alloys in the boot and support structure) with high-strength components (steel wires in Ilizarov ring, reinforced plantar plate), achieving optimal balance between weight reduction and structural strength for surgical application.
Data Source
AI summary
Adjustable restraint includes a plantar plate surrounded by a peripheral element about which a plurality of supports can be positioned; a support system attachable to that plate or element for providing vertical and horizontal support; and a lower leg securing housing. The housing is attachable to the support system through adjustable fastener(s) such it can be adjusted vertically and secured in position with respect to the plantar plate. A sole portion of the plantar plate may be removable. The support system can include first support(s) and second support(s) attachable to the plate or element, and, through first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s), respectively, the first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s) be attachable to the housing.