Dynamic Orthopedic Brace for ACL PCL Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic braces lack a dynamic control system to provide variable assistance specifically for both the ACL and PCL ligaments, which are essential for stabilizing the knee joint during different flexion angles and peak loading moments, especially for injuries like PCL and ACL.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic device with a dynamic control system that includes separate dynamic components for the ACL and PCL, utilizing a hinge system with adjustable cables and counterforce straps to apply varying forces according to knee flexion angles, ensuring independent operation between extension and flexion, and providing adjustable support for different ligaments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static strap is used to provide ACL or PCL support, then the brace structure is simple, but it cannot provide dynamic load adjustment corresponding to different knee flexion angles and peak loading moments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static straps with a dynamic control system that includes adjustable cables and counterforce straps connected to a hinge mechanism. This system dynamically adjusts the load applied to the ACL and PCL based on the knee flexion angle, with the hinge rotating to change the orientation and tension of the cables and straps, thereby providing adaptability to different flexion positions and peak loading moments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the support function into separate dynamic components for the ACL and PCL. Each ligament has its own cable and counterforce strap arrangement, allowing independent adjustment and control of loads for each ligament. This segmentation enables precise dynamic control of forces on different ligaments without requiring complex integrated mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single brace provides multiple ligament stabilization, then the device is versatile, but it cannot provide different dynamic loads for different ligaments simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent subsystems for ACL and PCL treatment. Each ligament has its own cable, adjustment mechanism, and counterforce strap arrangement. This segmentation allows the brace to provide different dynamic loads for different ligaments simultaneously while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism serves as a universal component that enables both ACL and PCL dynamic control functions. The hinge's rotation with knee flexion simultaneously adjusts the tension in both the ACL cable/counterforce strap system and the PCL cable/counterforce strap system, allowing one component to perform multiple functions
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic device has first and second struts connected to one another by a hinge system, and includes a dynamic control system and a counterforce system. The dynamic control system includes first and second dynamic components arranged on a first side of the orthopedic device to exert first and second dynamic forces according to a flexion angle of the hinge system. A counterforce system is located on a second side of the orthopedic device to counteract the first and second dynamic forces with at least one counterforce.