Ankle Brace Tension Member Segmentation for Motion Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ankle braces often compromise normal motion range and ease while providing protection against abnormal motions, and are hindered by issues such as weight, application difficulty, fit inside footwear, cost, and appearance.
Innovation Solution
An ankle brace design featuring a tension member with permanently fastened straps on the interior surface of the base, allowing for enhanced support and a smoother fit by positioning the central portion between the base and foot, with straps extending through apertures for improved attachment and reduced exterior bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ankle braces are designed to provide protection against abnormal motions, then protection effectiveness is improved, but range or ease of normal motion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ankle brace is divided into distinct functional segments: a base layer that provides compression and support, and separate tension members with straps that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to protection while maintaining flexibility for normal motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension members are designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities through multiple attachment points and adjustable straps. This allows the brace to adapt its tension level based on the user's needs, providing strong support when protection is required while allowing more freedom during normal activity.
2Reliability
If ankle braces are designed with additional support structures, then protection against abnormal motions is improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ankle brace utilizes flexible elastic material for the base and tension members, replacing rigid structural components. This flexible film approach provides the necessary support and compression while maintaining minimal weight, allowing the brace to conform to the ankle's shape without adding significant mass.
3Reliability
If ankle braces are designed with complex adjustment mechanisms, then fit and support are improved, but difficulty of application increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanisms are designed to be dynamic and adaptable rather than static and complex. The elastic material naturally adjusts to the user's anatomy, and the strap system allows for quick adjustments without requiring complex assembly or adjustment procedures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If tension members are permanently fastened to the base, then structural stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tension members are permanently fastened to the base by integrating them as unified components during manufacturing. This merging of components ensures structural stability and prevents relative movement between parts, while the standardized attachment method keeps manufacturing complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A ankle brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the ankle. The ankle brace includes a base and a tension member. The base is made of elastic material and configured to closely fit around portions of the ankle and adjacent foot and leg portions. A tensioning member is fastened to the interior surface of the base, with the tensioning straps extending through apertures in the base for detachable attachment to the exterior surface of the base.