Dynamometer Adapter for Limb Impairment Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current isokinetic dynamometers are not adapted for subjects with limb impairments, making it challenging to perform quantitative clinical assessments and strength measurements during dynamic movements, as they require gripping and proper alignment which is difficult for individuals with amputations, hemiparesis, or other limb pathologies.
Innovation Solution
The development of dynamometer attachments with a frame and padded limb support that includes a securing mechanism, connected via a translator assembly allowing two-dimensional alignment with the dynamometer's lever arm, enabling secure and adjustable positioning of impaired limbs for accurate strength measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional dynamometer attachment is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate subjects with limb impairments requiring gripping and proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment is divided into distinct functional components: a frame structure, a connector assembly with translation capability, and a limb support mechanism with securing elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall adaptability to various limb configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly incorporates translation capability in at least two dimensions, allowing the attachment to dynamically adjust its position relative to the lever arm. This dynamic adjustment enables proper alignment with subjects having different limb lengths and configurations without requiring subject movement.
2Measurement precision
If the attachment requires subject movement for alignment, then the alignment can be achieved, but it is difficult for subjects with limb impairments to perform the required movements
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed with translation capability that allows the attachment to move relative to the lever arm in at least two dimensions. This dynamic positioning system enables the attachment to be aligned with the subject's limb without requiring the subject to move, thereby maintaining measurement precision while improving ease of operation for subjects with limb impairments.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly acts as an intermediary element between the fixed lever arm and the adjustable attachment components. It mediates the alignment process by providing translation capability, allowing the attachment to be positioned correctly without requiring direct movement from the subject.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the attachment is fixed in place, then the structure is stable, but it cannot be aligned with different limb configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment incorporates a connector assembly with translation capability that allows it to transition from a mobile state during alignment to a fixed state during measurement. This dynamic design provides both stability when needed and flexibility for adaptation to different limb configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment allows for changes in positional parameters through the connector assembly's translation capability. By adjusting the position parameters in at least two dimensions, the attachment can adapt to different limb configurations while maintaining structural stability once positioned.
Data Source
AI summary
Attachments for isokinetic dynamometers and methods of use thereof are provided for use with subjects having limb impairments. An example dynamometer attachment for use with a subject having an impaired limb includes a frame that has fixed thereto a padded limb support, where the padded limb support is configured to secure an impaired limb of the subject. The padded limb support includes a securing mechanism for securing the impaired limb relative to the frame, and the frame is connected to the dynamometer lever arm via an intermediate connector assembly. The connector assembly permits translation of the padded limb support in at least two dimensions relative to the lever arm prior to securing the frame fixedly in place. The translation adjustability of the attachment facilitates the alignment of the dynamometer attachment to the limb or partial limb of the subject without requiring movement of the subject.