Therapeutic Boot Stabilization Wedge with Tether
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing limb stabilization devices, such as heel ulcer prevention and cushioning boots, often require additional support to maintain proper limb orientation, especially when patients struggle to maintain proper limb positioning.
Innovation Solution
A stabilization device comprising an elongated, triangular or trapezoidal stabilization block with a tether and hook-and-loop fasteners for securing the block in place, providing additional support and stability to the limb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a heel ulcer prevention and cushioning boot is used, then heel support and comfort are improved, but additional stabilization is needed to maintain proper limb orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization block acts as an intermediary element between the boot and the limb, providing the necessary stabilization. The block is positioned within the boot to maintain proper limb orientation, while the tether serves as a mediator to secure the block in place. This resolves the contradiction by adding a stabilizing component without compromising the comfort function of the boot.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization system is segmented into distinct components: the boot provides cushioning and support, while the separate stabilization block and tether system provides orientation stability. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function - the boot in comfort and the block-tether system in stabilization - resolving the contradiction between comfort and stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stabilization block with tether and fastener is added, then limb orientation stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tether is implemented as a flexible strap with hook-and-loop fasteners, allowing it to conform to the boot and limb contours. This flexibility simplifies the overall device structure compared to rigid stabilization mechanisms, while still achieving the required stability. The soft, adaptable nature of the tether reduces structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook-and-loop fastener system allows the tether to self-secure the stabilization block in place without requiring additional complex fastening mechanisms. The fastener elements on the strap enable the tether to attach to itself or the boot, creating a self-contained stabilization system that reduces overall device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If hook-and-loop fasteners are used on the tether, then ease of adjustment and securing is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hook-and-loop fastener system serves multiple functions: it secures the tether to the boot, allows adjustment of tether length, and enables easy attachment and removal of the stabilization block. This multi-functionality justifies the slightly increased manufacturing complexity by providing versatile operation capabilities in a single fastening mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a therapeutic boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. A fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place.