Adjustable Orthotic Foot Device with Removable Inserts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthotic devices are either ineffective for individuals with unique foot structures due to their general nature or unaffordable as customized options, limiting access to necessary foot support and comfort.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable orthotic foot device featuring a contoured shell layer, a soft insole layer with arch support, and removable structural support inserts that can be inserted into a pocket between the layers to adjust arch height, allowing for customizable support without high costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If general orthotic devices are used, then cost is reduced, but effectiveness for unique foot structures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device is divided into multiple independent components: a base layer, an arch support layer with adjustable inserts, and a shell layer. The arch support layer contains removable structural support inserts that can be selectively added or removed to customize the arch height and support level, allowing the device to adapt to different foot structures while maintaining cost-effectiveness through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthotic device transitions from a static, fixed-design structure to a dynamic, adjustable system. The removable structural support inserts enable users to modify the arch support height and characteristics based on their specific foot structure and comfort needs, making the device adaptable rather than fixed, thereby improving effectiveness across diverse foot types.
2Reliability
If customized orthotic devices are used, then effectiveness for specific foot structures is improved, but cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device is designed as a universal platform that can serve multiple foot types and support needs through its adjustable components. The base layer and shell layer remain standardized, while the arch support layer with removable inserts can be configured to accommodate various arch heights and foot structures, eliminating the need for completely custom-manufactured devices for each user.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows users to change physical parameters of the orthotic support, specifically arch height and firmness, by adding or removing structural support inserts. This parameter adjustment capability enables customization of the device to match individual foot structures without requiring complete redesign or remanufacturing of the entire orthotic device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added, then adaptability to individual foot shapes is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable functionality is achieved through segmentation of the arch support layer into a base structure with removable inserts. This segmentation allows adaptability through simple addition or removal of discrete components rather than requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, maintaining relative simplicity while enabling customization.
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
Provides enhanced support and comfort by conforming to individual foot shapes, offering adjustable arch support that can be tailored to specific needs, making orthotic devices more accessible and affordable.
Implementation Method 1
the soft insole layer is formed with one or more elastically compressible materials
Data Source
AI summary
In embodiments, an adjustable orthotic foot device may include a shell layer including an upper surface and a contoured lower surface, and a soft insole layer coupled to the upper surface of the shell layer, the soft insole layer defining an arch support structure on an upper surface of the soft insole layer along a medial edge of the soft insole layer. The adjustable orthotic foot device may further include one or more structural support inserts configured to be removably inserted within a pocket formed between the shell layer and the soft insole layer in order to adjust an arch height of the arch support structure. In embodiments, the one or more structural support inserts may be defined by a curved lateral edge and a convex curved medial edge.