Compression Device Sole Bladder Snap-Fit Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression devices for the foot require precise manufacturing to attach a rigid sole to a bladder using methods like stitching, which can be cumbersome and prone to errors, affecting the accuracy and effectiveness of blood flow enhancement.
Innovation Solution
A foot cuff design featuring a bladder with integrally formed bosses that snap-fit into openings on a rigid sole, allowing for secure attachment without the need for stitching, using materials like PVC and polyurethane, and incorporating hook fasteners for easy wrapping and secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If stitching is used to attach the rigid sole to the bladder, then the attachment can be secured, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sole and bladder into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate attachment processes like stitching. The sole is formed as an integral part of the bladder structure, which simplifies manufacturing while maintaining secure attachment for effective compression therapy.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, directs compression force, and is integrally attached to the bladder. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate attachment mechanisms, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining attachment strength.
2Strength
If stitching is used to attach the rigid sole to the bladder, then the attachment can be secured, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the sole and bladder into one integrated component during manufacturing, the patent eliminates the time-consuming stitching process. The integral construction allows the components to be formed simultaneously or pre-assembled, significantly reducing manufacturing time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sole is pre-formed as an integral part of the bladder structure before final assembly. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for time-consuming field attachment processes, allowing for faster manufacturing and deployment of the compression device.
3Ease of manufacture
If double stick tape is used to attach the rigid sole to the bladder, then the attachment process is simplified, but the attachment may not be secure enough for effective compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sole and bladder into an integral structure, eliminating the need for adhesive tapes while providing inherently secure attachment. This integration ensures that the attachment strength is built into the structure itself, providing both ease of manufacture and secure attachment for effective compression therapy.
Data Source
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AI summary
A compression device for applying compression to a part of a wearer's body. The device includes a bladder (14,114,214) including first and second of fluid impermeable layers secured to one another to define an inflatable chamber. The device includes a substantially rigid counterforce component (38,138,238) having an opening (44,144,244). An attachment member (42,142,242) extends outward from the first layer of the bladder. The attachment member is received in the opening of the counterforce component to attach the counterforce component to the bladder.