Cervical Traction Apparatus with Adjustable Parallel Springs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cervical traction devices are cumbersome, require professional assistance, and lack adjustability in traction strength, leading to ineffective and uncomfortable therapy experiences for patients.
Innovation Solution
A cervical traction apparatus featuring adjustable parallel extension springs, a head halter, and a positioning mat, allowing patients to adjust traction strength and perform exercises to alleviate muscle tension, promoting natural movement and comfort during therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hospital traction apparatuses are used, then traction effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the traction system into separate functional components: a head halter for application to the patient's head, parallel extension springs for providing traction force, and a positioning mat for guidance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to be self-contained and portable, allowing patients to perform traction therapy independently at home without requiring professional assistance. The parallel extension springs automatically provide the necessary traction force when the patient follows the positioning mat guidelines.
2Device complexity
If manual force or counterforce is used, then device simplicity is improved, but traction strength adjustability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates parallel extension springs that can be dynamically adjusted to provide varying levels of traction strength. The springs are arranged in parallel configurations that can be modified to suit different patient needs, allowing the traction force to be adjusted without complicating the overall device structure.
3Productivity
If patients assume sitting or lying position, then therapy compliance is improved, but muscle stretching comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the patient assume a fixed sitting or lying position, the apparatus inverts the approach by using a standing position with a positioning mat that guides the patient through natural movement patterns. This inversion allows patients to actively engage in stretching movements rather than passively receiving therapy, improving comfort while maintaining compliance.
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 apparatus enables patients to customize traction strength and actively engage in exercises, enhancing the effectiveness and comfort of cervical spinal traction therapy, making it more accessible and efficient for patients.
Implementation Method 1
parallel extension springs
Implementation Method 2
parallel extension springs
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a cervical traction apparatus designed for therapeutic use, featuring an anchor point for secure attachment. The apparatus comprises a cohesive framework assembly primarily composed of parallel extension springs and two connection panels. Integral components such as a head halter, a spreader bar, a positioning mat, and an adjustable chain are included. The apparatus is specifically configured to apply traction force by harnessing the restoring force generated by the parallel extension springs. The design facilitates the fine-tuning of traction force by adjusting the number of parallel extension springs. The apparatus is intended for the patient to adopt a standing position, promoting active stretching during the traction session. It can also be employed while seated, in conjunction with a user-provided chair. The design recognizes the interdependent relationship between the cervical spine, associated muscles, and other spinal components, treating them as a unified entity during the traction process.