Elastic Arm-Training Device with Adjustable Movement Restriction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing arm-training devices either restrict arm movement completely or fail to prevent undesirable movements effectively, lacking the ability to allow a predetermined range of desirable movement while restricting undesirable movements.

Innovation Solution

An arm-training device with a flexible elongate member and adjustable loops that allow a predetermined range of desirable arm movement while preventing undesirable movements by applying a pulling force through tension adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If arm-training devices completely restrict arm movement, then undesirable movements are prevented, but patient compliance and healing are compromised due to complete immobilization

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of undesirable movementVSAvoidpatient compliance with movement restrictions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including slides that can be repositioned along the elongate member to change the span length, and adjustable tensioning systems that allow the pulling force to be modified. This enables the device to adapt between providing strong restriction and allowing greater movement based on patient needs and recovery stage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device allows changing key parameters such as the span length (distance between loops), tension force applied to the elongate member, and loop size. These parameter adjustments enable the device to transition from a restrictive state that prevents undesirable movement to a more permissive state that allows desirable movement, thereby improving patient compliance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If arm-training devices allow free arm movement, then patient compliance is improved, but undesirable movements are not effectively prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepatient compliance with movement restrictionsVSAvoidprevention of undesirable movement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device applies a preliminary pulling force through the tensioned elongate member that creates resistance against undesirable arm movements before they occur. This pre-applied force acts as a preventive mechanism that guides the patient to maintain proper arm positioning and spacing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The device provides mechanical feedback through the tensioned elongate member that immediately responds to arm movement. When arms move apart beyond the desired range, the tension increases, providing tactile feedback that encourages the patient to return to the correct position, thereby maintaining compliance without complete immobilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If adjustable loops and slides are added to allow predetermined range of movement, then patient compliance improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveallowance of desirable movement rangeVSAvoidstructure with slides and adjustable loops

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into modular components including the elongate member, separate adjustable loops, and independent slides that can move along the member. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (restriction, adjustment, tensioning) while keeping the overall device relatively simple and easy to assemble.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The slides are designed to be easily repositioned by the patient or caregiver without requiring complex tools or mechanisms. The adjustable loops can be independently configured, allowing the device to be self-adjusted to different patient needs, thereby reducing the complexity of professional intervention required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 device enhances patient compliance with recommended arm restrictions by allowing a desirable range of movement while restricting undesirable movements, promoting healing and recovery without complete immobilization.

Implementation Method 1

a flexible elongate member having an elastic length disposed between opposing first and second ends

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

applying a pulling force through tension adjustment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Data Source

PatentUS12350536B2Arm-training device

Publication Date: 2025.07.08 RECOVER STRONG LLC

AI summary

An arm-training device, and methods of making and using such an arm-training device, whereby the arm-training device includes a flexible elongate member having an elastic length disposed between opposing first and second ends; a first loop formed proximate the first end; a second loop formed proximate the second end; a first slide coupled to the first loop, the first slide movable along the length of the elongate member; and a second slide coupled to the second loop, the second slide movable along the length of the elongate member.