Dynamic Ankle Orthosis for Stability Without Motion Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ankle orthoses restrict natural ankle movement, lack adaptability, and do not consider individual ankle characteristics, leading to discomfort, impaired healing, and reduced balance performance.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic ankle orthosis with adjustable straps and support members that promote natural roll and glide of the Talocrural joint, providing sensory input and accommodating various user needs and footwear types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional rigid orthoses are used to provide ankle support, then ankle stability is improved, but natural range of motion is restricted and discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis employs dynamic components including elastic straps that allow controlled movement, a movable support member that can shift position, and a resilient member that provides adaptive support. These dynamic elements enable the device to maintain stability while accommodating natural ankle motion patterns including roll and glide movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis utilizes materials and structures with variable mechanical properties - elastic straps that change tension based on movement, resilient members that provide different support levels at different compression levels, and adjustable components that modify support characteristics. These parameter changes allow the device to provide stability when needed while permitting natural motion.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional one-size-fits-all orthoses are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to individual ankle characteristics is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis is divided into multiple independent adjustable components including separate straps, a movable support member, and modular attachment systems. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted to match individual ankle anatomy and injury characteristics while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing of individual parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis employs universal attachment mechanisms that can accommodate different footwear types and ankle configurations. The adjustable support member and elastic straps can be configured for various ankle shapes and injury types, allowing a single device design to serve multiple user needs without requiring custom manufacturing.
3Strength
If non-dynamic rigid structures are used in orthoses, then structural support is improved, but sensory input and balance performance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis utilizes elastic straps and resilient members that provide flexible support while maintaining structural integrity. These flexible components can deform and return to shape, providing continuous tactile feedback to the user's skin and underlying tissues, which enhances proprioception and balance performance while still providing necessary structural support.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an improved ankle orthosis designed to promote proper ankle movement and potentially prevent ankle injuries. The orthosis attaches to the distal shin above the lateral and medial malleolus through a conforming back strap with a rigid adjustable strap that connects to a resistive strap. This assembly is anchored to the distal dorsal aspect of the wearer's conventional shoe. The orthosis provides dynamic, adaptable support without restricting motion. It enhances balance performance by increasing sensory input from compression of the distal shin and facilitates proper ankle range of motion. Additionally, the orthosis may assist in preventing ankle sprains by aiding in the transition from plantarflexion to dorsiflexion. The device is simple to use and includes a customizable spandex cover for aesthetic appeal and added protection.