Elastic Framework Joint Support with Tensioned Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Joint fatigue, pain, and instability, particularly in hinge joints like the knee and elbow, are common issues due to degenerative wear and damage, for which existing external supports often fail to provide adequate relief and motion assistance.
Innovation Solution
The development of an elastically stretchable framework with permanent openings and a fastening mechanism that applies tension to secure the support to the body, allowing for kinetic energy storage and release to assist natural joint movement, while also providing comfort and protection through expandable and recoverable structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing external supports are used for joint fatigue and instability, then joint support is provided, but motion assistance and kinetic energy storage are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from rigid, non-energy-storing support structures to elastic frameworks that can dynamically store and release kinetic energy. The elastic framework's ability to deform and recover allows it to capture kinetic energy during joint movement and release it to assist motion, thereby improving both joint support reliability and energy utilization simultaneously.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support structures are used, then joint stability is improved, but comfort and adaptability to body contours are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible shells by using an elastic framework that can deform and conform to the body's contours while maintaining joint stability. The elastic material allows the support structure to adapt to individual body shapes and movement patterns, providing both stability and comfort through its ability to flex and recover without compromising structural integrity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If elastic framework is used for motion assistance, then kinetic energy storage is improved, but structural rigidity for support is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing an elastic framework that transitions between rigid and flexible states based on movement demands. During phases requiring support, the framework maintains structural rigidity; during phases requiring motion assistance, it becomes more compliant to store and release kinetic energy. This dynamic adaptation allows the structure to provide both rigidity and energy storage capability at different times in the movement cycle.
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 effectively addresses joint fatigue and instability by enhancing joint motion, providing comfort, and supporting daily and athletic activities, with the framework's elastic stretchability and kinetic energy storage and release mechanism offering improved performance and protection.
Implementation Method 1
kinetic energy is stored and returned for use to assist the body in its natural knee movement
Implementation Method 2
the framework's elastic stretchability and kinetic energy storage and release mechanism offering improved performance
Implementation Method 3
the fastening mechanism is connected to and applies tension at points proximate a perimeter of the framework such that the framework is expanded and tensioned
Data Source
AI summary
A support for an area of a body includes: a framework having a surface for abutment with an area of a body, wherein said framework defines a plurality of permanent openings in said surface regardless of whether said surface is in abutment with the area of the body; a garment configured for wearing proximate the area of the body; and a fastening mechanism adapted to removably fasten to said garment for securing said surface of said framework in abutment with the area of the body, wherein said fastening mechanism is connected to and applies tension proximate opposite sides of said framework when fastened to said garment such that said framework is expanded and said surface of said framework is tensioned in its abutment with the area of the body.