Divisible Orthotic Joint with Tool-Free Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthoses have difficulty in easy donning and doffing due to limited fasteners, which compromises stability and aesthetics, and often result in increased weight with numerous large joint components.
Innovation Solution
A divisible orthosis joint with a locking device that allows tool-free separation and joining of shell parts, featuring a clamping mechanism and pivot bearing with low friction materials, enabling easy opening and closing at the joint axis without tools, and adjustable stops for range of motion control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the orthosis has only a few fasteners for opening and closing, then the stability and appearance are maintained, but the ease of donning and doffing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis is divided into separable components (first and second shell parts) that can be easily joined and separated through the joint mechanism, allowing quick donning and doffing without requiring multiple fasteners distributed across the structure
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device enables the orthosis to be easily assembled and disassembled by the user through simple manual operation of the actuating element, without requiring tools or complex fastening procedures
2Reliability
If the orthosis has many large joint components, then the functionality and stability are improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint is divided into modular components (first joint part, second joint part, locking device) that can be independently optimized for weight and function, allowing stability without excessive overall mass
Solution Approach 2:
The shell parts are designed as lightweight protective enclosures that provide structural integrity without adding significant weight, allowing the joint mechanism to remain compact and light
3Weight of moving object
If the orthosis joint is compact and stable, then the weight and appearance are improved, but the ease of opening and closing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to be operated directly by the user through simple manual manipulation of the actuating element, enabling easy opening and closing of the compact joint without requiring tools or external assistance
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring complex fasteners distributed across the orthosis for easy opening, the solution inverts the approach by placing a simple locking mechanism directly at the compact joint, making the joint itself the easy-to-operate element
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
Facilitates quick and stable donning and doffing of the orthosis without increasing weight, maintaining stability and allowing for customizable range of motion, thus improving user experience and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
pivot bearing with low friction materials
Implementation Method 2
clamping mechanism... enabling easy opening and closing at the joint axis
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an orthotic joint and an orthosis for correcting joint misalignments as well as for positioning and stabilizing a joint with such an orthotic joint.