Elastic Chest Wrap for Accessory Muscle Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for developing and rehabilitating accessory muscles of the upper torso, particularly in infants and young children, are inadequate as they require intensive sessions, focus on larger muscles, and are not suitable for all ages, while existing devices do not effectively train accessory muscles for breathing and posture.
Innovation Solution
A wearable, adjustable compressive device made of elastic material, such as neoprene, that fits around the chest and shoulders, providing gradual compression to activate and strengthen accessory muscles through supervised therapy, allowing for daily use across various ages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If intensive session-based therapy regimens are used to improve core stability, then larger core muscles are strengthened, but accessory muscles are not effectively trained and the regimen is not suitable for infants and young children
Solution Approach 1:
The device changes the parameter of compression force applied to the chest, creating resistance that specifically targets accessory muscles during breathing. By adjusting the compression level, the device can be adapted for use with infants, children, and adults, making the therapy suitable for all ages while effectively training the accessory muscles that are not targeted by conventional exercise regimens
2Strength
If tummy time is extended to strengthen chest muscles in infants, then respiratory capacity improves, but infants are exposed to increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome
Solution Approach 1:
The compressive device acts as an intermediary that provides the beneficial respiratory muscle strengthening effect without requiring the infant to be in the prone position. The device creates controlled resistance during breathing while the infant remains in a safe supine position, thus achieving chest muscle development without exposing the infant to the risks associated with extended tummy time
3Shape
If postural braces are used to support the spine, then posture is corrected, but accessory muscles are not trained and the device is not suitable for infants or young children
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces the passive mechanical support of traditional postural braces with an active respiratory resistance mechanism. Instead of mechanically holding the spine in position, the compressive device trains the accessory muscles to actively support posture through controlled resistance during breathing. The vest-like design with adjustable compression makes it suitable for infants and children, replacing adult-oriented braces with a developmentally appropriate solution
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 effectively strengthens accessory muscles, improving breathing, posture, and motor skills by enhancing the activation of rib cage expansion and lung capacity, addressing deficiencies such as diminished respiratory capacity and flared ribs, with adjustable tension levels and duration tailored to individual needs.
Implementation Method 1
The device is made of a substantially elastic material, such as natural or synthetic rubber or another polymer, and is most preferably made of neoprene
Data Source
AI summary
A method of developing the accessory muscles of the upper torso utilizes a therapy device having an adjustable compressive wrap that wraps around the chest of a patient. The wrap is made of a substantially elastic material, such as neoprene, and has a releasable fastener to removably attach the wrap to itself around the patient's chest. The device may have one or more markers attached to the wrap to indicate to a therapist where the attachment device should be attached to achieve the desired compression around the chest. The therapist places the device on the patient and tightens the wrap until the therapist determines, by observing the rise and fall of the patient's chest, that the device has activated the patient's accessory muscles. The patient wears the device at this tension for about two hours per day, at least six days per week, for the first two weeks. Then, the tension level is reassessed and the device is worn for about three hours per day, at least six days per week, and the tension is reassessed every four weeks for between 12 and 24 months.