Variable Stiffness Ankle Support via Inflatable Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with chronic ankle instability and conditions like hemiparesis experience gait abnormalities and increased risk of injury due to tendon deformation and loss of shock absorption, leading to irregular gait patterns and propulsion issues during locomotion.
Innovation Solution
A fabric-based ankle support assembly with a sealed, inflatable chamber and retaining members that provide variable stiffness along a longitudinal axis, allowing for directional support and stabilization of the ankle through inflation, manufactured using layers of fabric and heat-sealing techniques to create air-tight seals and integrated rigid retaining members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid structure is used to provide ankle support, then stability and support are improved, but flexibility and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ankle support uses an inflatable chamber that can dynamically adjust its stiffness by changing internal pressure. When inflated, the chamber provides rigid support for stability; when deflated, it becomes flexible for comfort and adaptability. This dynamic state change allows the device to transition between providing structural support and allowing natural movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure changes its physical parameter (stiffness) by altering the inflation state of the chamber. By controlling the amount of air or fluid in the chamber, the device can adjust its rigidity to match different support requirements, effectively resolving the contradiction between needing rigid support and maintaining flexibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If uniform stiffness is provided throughout the ankle support, then manufacturing is simplified, but directional support requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The ankle support incorporates retaining members at specific locations along the chamber to provide localized stiffness in particular directions. These retaining members are strategically positioned to restrict expansion in directions where support is needed (such as preventing excessive inversion or eversion), while allowing movement in other directions. This local modification maintains relatively simple manufacturing compared to fully custom asymmetric structures.
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 solution enhances ankle stability and support, reducing the risk of injury and improving gait by providing controlled stiffness and support during inversion/eversion and plantarflexion movements, thereby correcting gait irregularities and enhancing propulsion during walking.
Implementation Method 1
A sealed, inflatable chamber is supported by the body. The retaining members are positioned relative to the chamber such that the body has a variable stiffness along the longitudinal axis when the chamber is inflated.
Implementation Method 2
forming a first layer having a sealed, inflatable chamber. Forming the first layer includes heat-sealing pieces of fabric to create an air-tight seal.
Data Source
AI summary
An ankle support assembly includes a body having a plurality of fabric layers. The body extends along a longitudinal axis. A sealed, inflatable chamber is supported by the body. A valve member is supported by the body and in fluid communication with the chamber. A plurality of retaining members are positioned relative to the chamber. The retaining members are spaced apart from each other. The retaining members are configured to limit expansion of the chamber in at least one direction. The retaining members are positioned relative to the chamber such that the body has a variable stiffness along the longitudinal axis when the chamber is inflated.