Dual-Brace Hand Support for Thumb Securement

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a simple, effective, and easily applied bracing solution for the thumb and/or CMC joint to prevent unwanted movement, particularly for conditions like arthritis and sprains, where existing solutions fail to provide sufficient security and comfort.

Innovation Solution

A dual-brace system comprising a first brace for the hand and/or wrist, with a second brace configured to be applied over the first, utilizing a strap and thumb sleeve for enhanced securement, providing dual bracing forces that can be used individually or in tandem for secure positioning of the thumb and CMC joint.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single brace is used for thumb and wrist support, then the device remains simple and easy to apply, but the securement effect is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurement effectVSAvoidbrace structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bracing system is divided into two separate braces: a first brace for the wrist and a second brace for the thumb. Each brace is independently designed and applied, allowing them to work together to provide enhanced securement while maintaining individual simplicity in application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second thumb brace is applied over the first wrist brace, creating a nested configuration where the thumb brace sits within the overall structure of the wrist brace. This nesting approach allows both braces to function simultaneously without interfering with each other's application or removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If dual braces are applied one over the other, then securement effect is enhanced, but the application process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethumb securementVSAvoidapplication process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The first wrist brace is applied first as a preliminary step, establishing a stable base layer. The second thumb brace is then applied over it in a subsequent step. This sequential preliminary action simplifies the overall process by breaking it into manageable stages rather than requiring simultaneous complex manipulation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The braces incorporate adjustable straps and fastening mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment during application and use. This flexibility enables the user to adapt the braces to different hand sizes and comfort requirements, making the application process more intuitive and easier to perform correctly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7713223B2Hand and/or wrist brace apparatus

Publication Date: 2010.05.11 WEBER ORTHOPEDIC INC

AI summary

Hand and/or wrist support apparatus, comprising in combination, a first brace configured for application to the hand and/or wrist of the user, and a second brace configured for application over at least a portion of the first brace, each brace configured for in-place retention, providing support to a substantial portion of the hand and/or wrist of the user, including the thumb.