Elastic Knee Brace Stabilization via Tensioning Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knee braces often compromise normal motion range and ease while protecting against abnormal knee motions, due to rigid components, weight, application difficulties, and skin irritation issues.
Innovation Solution
A knee brace design featuring a shaped tensioning member made of elastic synthetic fibers attached to the interior surface, with reinforced apertures and an external mesh layer, providing stabilization without restricting normal motion and minimizing discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid components are used to protect the knee from abnormal motions, then protection against abnormal motions is improved, but range and ease of normal motion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible stays made of elastic material instead of rigid components. These stays can bend and flex to accommodate normal knee motion while providing stabilizing forces to prevent abnormal motions. The flexible nature allows the brace to adapt to the knee's natural movement patterns without restricting range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes elastic material with specific mechanical properties that allow it to deform under normal loading conditions but provide resistance to abnormal motions. The elastic modulus and tensile strength of the material are selected to provide appropriate support while maintaining flexibility for normal activity.
2Reliability
If stabilization members are added to protect the knee, then protection against abnormal motions is improved, but weight on the leg increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stays are constructed from flexible elastic material rather than heavy rigid structures. This flexible construction provides the necessary stabilization while minimizing added weight. The material can be engineered to have high strength-to-weight ratio, providing effective support with minimal mass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction combining elastic material with strategic reinforcement. The stays are made from elastic material that may be reinforced in specific directions or areas to provide maximum stabilization with minimum weight, rather than using uniformly heavy rigid materials throughout.
3Reliability
If complex stabilization structures are used to protect the knee, then protection against abnormal motions is improved, but difficulty of application and removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The knee brace is divided into modular components including the base, stays, and closure system. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and positioned, simplifying the application process. The modular design enables easy assembly and disassembly without requiring complex manipulation of a single monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable straps and fasteners that can be easily modified during application. The elastic stays themselves are dynamic, automatically adjusting to the knee's shape and movement, which simplifies the fitting process compared to rigid structures requiring precise alignment.
4Reliability
If rigid components and compression structures are used to protect the knee, then protection against abnormal motions is improved, but irritation or chafing of the skin occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible elastic material of the stays conform to the skin's surface and movement, distributing pressure evenly and reducing friction and chafing. Unlike rigid components that create concentrated pressure points, the flexible material adapts to the body's contours and movement patterns, minimizing skin irritation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material properties are selected to provide appropriate compression and flexibility. The material can stretch and recover, maintaining consistent pressure without creating excessive friction or heat buildup that would cause skin irritation. The tensile strength and elasticity are optimized to balance support with comfort.
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 design effectively protects the knee from abnormal motions while maintaining normal motion range and ease, reducing weight and skin irritation, and enhancing comfort and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a shaped tensioning member made of elastic synthetic fibers attached to the interior surface
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A knee brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the knee. The knee brace includes a base and a spider member. The base is comprised of elastic material and configured to closely fit around portions of the knee and adjacent leg portions. A spider member having upper and lower pairs of tensioning straps is fastened to the interior surface of the base, with the tensioning straps extending through upper and lower apertures in the base for detachable attachment to the exterior surface of the base.