Dynamic Orthotic System with Resilient Base and Lever Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthotic devices are not dynamic, failing to adjust to the changing forces during the gait cycle and do not effectively address underlying pathologies such as diabetic neuropathic foot disease, leading to injuries like ulcers, fractures, and systemic misalignments in the ankle, knee, and hip.
Innovation Solution
A 3D biomechanics controlling suspension platform with sensors and computer-aided video analysis software that dynamically adjusts to mitigate forces and correct foot pathologies by redistributing energy and altering the orthotic's configuration in real-time, using a multi-layer suspension system with variable resistance and leverage control to promote proper alignment and balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional rigid orthotic devices are used, then structural support is provided, but dynamic adjustments during gait cycle cannot be made and impact energy causes injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static rigid orthotic device into a dynamic system by introducing a resilient base layer that can deform and a lever mechanism that converts vertical ground reaction forces into horizontal forces. This allows the orthotic to dynamically adjust its configuration during the gait cycle, making the foot tip in or out based on the direction and force of motion, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural support and dynamic adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the orthotic system by using a resilient base layer that can compress and rebound, and a lever that transforms force vectors. This allows the system to change its mechanical parameters (rigidity, orientation, force distribution) in response to varying gait conditions, enabling both structural support and dynamic adjustment.
2Speed
If hard surfaces are used in modern environments, then locomotion is enabled, but impact energy enters the body causing physical damage and injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by using a resilient base layer that is specifically designed to absorb and mitigate impact energy from hard surfaces before it can transmit harmful forces to the body. This cushioning layer is positioned to receive ground reaction forces during heel strike and throughout the gait cycle, protecting the user from impact-related injuries while maintaining locomotion capability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional static orthotic devices are used, then foot alignment is corrected, but dynamic force redistribution during gait cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elements (resilient base layer, lever mechanism) that allow the orthotic to maintain proper foot alignment while simultaneously adapting to dynamic forces during gait. The lever converts vertical impact forces into horizontal forces that actively manage foot orientation, enabling both alignment stability and gait efficiency improvement through dynamic force redistribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthotic system provides mechanical feedback through the lever mechanism that responds to ground reaction forces in real-time. As the foot contacts the ground and forces change during the gait cycle, the lever automatically adjusts the foot's orientation and force distribution, creating a feedback loop that optimizes both alignment and gait efficiency without requiring external control.
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
The solution provides precise dynamic adjustments to mitigate excessive forces, prevent injuries, and enhance gait efficiency, allowing individuals to walk farther, faster, and longer with reduced pain and improved biomechanical alignment, effectively addressing both remedial and therapeutic needs.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient base layer that contacts the ground during the gait cycle; a lever that converts vertical ground reaction forces into horizontal forces; an orthotic that rides on top of the resilient base layer
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for biomechanical analysis of a gait cycle of a user, including a multi-layered structure including a base layer, a mid-layer, and an upper layer, at least one sensor integrated with the orthotic system capable of detecting movement and pressure changes during the gait cycle of the user, and a processing unit in communication with the at least one sensor configured to receive and analyze sensor data, compare the analyzed sensor data against a plurality of foot pathologies, and provide visual feedback for display on a display screen based on the comparison to inform adjustments for optimizing foot alignment and motion, wherein the orthotic system includes one or more adjustment features to provide manual adjustment to the foot during the gait cycle for therapeutic corrections, thereby enhancing mobility and reducing discomfort for the user.