Cervical Orthotic U-Frame Height Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cervical orthoses are not particularly easy to use due to complex locking mechanisms that are difficult to operate, especially for height adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A cervical orthosis with a U-shaped frame and a U-shaped chin rest, featuring a height-adjustable locking device with a locking rail firmly connected to the chin rest, allowing for independent locking at multiple heights using a compression spring and an easily accessible unlocking element, which simplifies the adjustment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the locking mechanism is arranged on the movable chin rest, then the chin rest can be adjusted to different heights, but the operation becomes difficult and less user-friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by moving the locking mechanism from the movable chin rest to the fixed frame. The release element is now operated on the frame rather than on the movable chin rest itself. This inversion makes the operation more intuitive and accessible, as the release element can be easily reached and operated without requiring the user to access components on the movable chin rest structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the locking rail is rigidly connected to the frame, then the structure is stable, but the adjustment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking rail rigidly connected to the frame providing stable guidance, a locking mechanism with compression spring providing the locking force, and a release element with elongated release connection enabling operation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression spring acts as an intermediary element between the locking mechanism and the locking rail. It provides the necessary locking force while allowing for smooth engagement and disengagement of the locking pin with the locking openings, reducing the complexity of direct rigid connections.
3Length of moving object
If the release element is arranged close to the locking mechanism on the chin rest, then the connection is short, but the element is difficult to access and operate
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated release connection acts as an intermediary that transmits the operating force from the release element (positioned for easy access on the frame) to the locking mechanism (positioned near the chin rest). This allows the release element to be located at an ergonomically favorable position while still effectively controlling the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The release connection is designed to extend in a direction that optimizes accessibility. Rather than a simple linear connection, it may follow a path that allows the release element to be operated from a convenient location on the frame, utilizing spatial arrangement to improve user access.
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 design enables easy and intuitive operation, allowing for precise adjustment of the chin rest to various heights, enhancing user experience and comfort by making the orthosis easier to use and adjust.
Implementation Method 1
locking mechanism that is operatively connected to a compression spring in such a way that the locking mechanism engages in one of the detent openings of the locking rail
Data Source
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AI summary
A cervical orthosis with a U-shaped frame designed and intended to rest on a patient's chest, with a U-shaped chin rest connected at its two end regions to the end regions of the U-shaped frame via a pivot connection, and with a posterior head support connected or connectable to the U-shaped frame to form a ring-like closure to the cervical orthosis, wherein the frame and the chin rest are connected to each other in front of the pivot connection via a height-adjustable locking device, wherein the height-adjustable locking device has at least one locking rail firmly connected to the chin rest with at least two locking openings for locking the chin rest at at least two different heights, wherein the height-adjustable locking device has at least one locking mechanism operatively connected to a compression spring in such a way thatthat the locking device engages in one of the detent openings of the detent rail, and wherein the locking device is connected via an elongated release connection to a release element which is displaceable against the pressure direction of the compression spring.