C-Shaped Orthosis with Modular Electrodes for Gait Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gait modulation systems, particularly for patients with neuromuscular impairments, face challenges such as cumbersome design, difficulty in donning and positioning, limited adaptability, and discomfort due to high skin current density, which restricts their widespread use and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A semi-rigid, self-retaining C-shaped orthosis with flexible retaining elements and a locking mechanism that envelops the limb segment, allowing for easy donning and accurate positioning of large surface electrodes, along with a wireless foot sensor device that secures to the shoe for efficient gait enhancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional FES orthosis devices are used, then electrical stimulation can be provided to enhance limb function, but the devices are cumbersome and difficult to don and position accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis is divided into modular components including a C-shaped frame, detachable electrode assemblies, and separate retaining elements. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and adjusted, simplifying the donning process while maintaining overall device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis incorporates flexible retaining elements and adjustable components that can dynamically adapt to different limb shapes and sizes. The C-shaped frame provides structural support while allowing flexibility in positioning, enabling accurate electrode placement without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If large surface electrodes are used to reduce skin current density, then skin sensory discomfort is reduced, but the electrodes are more difficult to position and secure accurately
Solution Approach 1:
Large surface electrodes are divided into multiple smaller electrode assemblies that can be independently positioned and secured. Each assembly maintains sufficient surface area to reduce current density while being small enough to position accurately on specific muscle groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode assemblies use flexible retaining elements and conformable materials that can adapt to the limb's surface contour. This flexibility allows large electrodes to conform to curved surfaces while maintaining secure contact and precise positioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the orthosis is designed to be universally adaptable to various limb sizes and shapes, then applicability is improved, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The C-shaped frame and retaining elements are designed with universal dimensions and adjustment capabilities that accommodate various limb sizes and shapes. The same basic structure can be used across different patients by adjusting the positioning and tension of the flexible retaining elements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized device versions.
4Reliability
If the orthosis is securely retained on the limb, then stability is improved, but donning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible retaining elements are pre-configured with spring-loaded or elastic properties that automatically engage with the limb upon donning. This preliminary configuration allows the orthosis to self-retain securely once applied, reducing the need for complex fastening operations while maintaining stable retention during use.
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 enables easy, secure, and comfortable donning of the orthosis, reduces skin sensory discomfort, and improves ankle torque generation, while being universally adaptable to various limb sizes and shapes, enhancing gait stability and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
The opposing retaining elements are spring-loaded towards a center of the frame, such that in donning the orthosis around the limb segment, the limb segment applies a counter-pressure from within the frame, against the opposing retaining elements, such that the orthosis is firmly and fixedly self-retained
Implementation Method 2
at least one surface electrical stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on a surface of the limb segment... the at least one surface electrode for electrically associating, via the frame, with a stimulator unit, so as to provide electrical stimulation
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical stimulation orthosis and method therefor, the orthosis including: (a) an at least semi-rigid frame configured to substantially envelop a limb segment, the frame having at least one first complementary mechanical fastener associated therewith; (b) a surface electrical stimulation electrode assembly associated with, and supported by, the frame, the assembly having a surface stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on the limb segment, the surface electrode assembly having an electrode base for electrically associating, via the frame, with a stimulator unit for providing a stimulation signal to the surface electrode, the electrode base having a top face for receiving the stimulation electrode, and a bottom face having at least one second complementary mechanical fastener, the first and second fasteners adapted for reversible attachment and detachment, at a plurality of locations on the frame, thereby enabling the electrical stimulation electrode assembly to be adjustably and reversibly positioned on the frame.