Extra-articular Energy Manipulator for Joint Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for osteoarthritis fail to effectively address joint pain and mechanical issues, as they do not adequately control joint loads, absorb energy, or preserve joint movement, and existing devices are invasive and non-compliant with natural joint function.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive device and method that incorporates energy absorption and manipulation systems, using linear and non-linear spring elements with dampening components to absorb and transfer energy, allowing for customizable energy absorption and load redistribution across the joint, thereby reducing pain and preserving joint mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional osteoarthritis treatments are used, then joint pain management is attempted, but they fail to effectively control joint loads and absorb energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an energy manipulation assembly as an intermediary device between the articulating bones. This assembly includes energy absorbing elements (springs, dampeners) that mediate the mechanical energy transfer during joint movement, effectively controlling joint loads without requiring complex surgical procedures or invasive bone modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the natural joint's mechanical energy absorption system (cartilage, ligaments) with an artificial energy manipulation assembly. This assembly uses mechanical elements like springs and dampeners to substitute for the degraded natural structures, providing reliable energy absorption and load control.
2Reliability
If existing joint devices are implanted, then joint support is provided, but the devices are invasive and non-compliant with natural joint function
Solution Approach 1:
The energy manipulation assembly is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The springs and dampeners allow the device to adapt its stiffness and energy absorption characteristics in response to the natural dynamics of joint movement, maintaining compliance with natural joint function while providing reliable support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs energy absorbing elements with variable parameters (spring constants, dampening coefficients) that can be adjusted to match the specific mechanical characteristics of different joints and patient conditions. This allows the device to comply with natural joint function across varying movement conditions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If energy absorption is increased to reduce joint load, then pain relief is achieved, but joint movement may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The energy manipulation assembly is designed to absorb energy periodically during the gait cycle, specifically during weight-bearing phases when load reduction is most needed. The springs and dampeners engage and disengage rhythmically with joint movement, providing pain relief during critical moments while maintaining joint mobility throughout the full range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy absorbing elements are designed with specific stiffness and dampening parameters that allow them to be compliant during low-load movements (preserving mobility) while providing significant energy absorption during high-load phases (reducing pain). The parameters are tuned to match the physiological requirements of the joint.
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 reduces joint pain and load, allowing for improved joint alignment and stability, slowing disease progression and enhancing mobility, with the ability to adjust and replace components as needed to accommodate changing patient needs.
Implementation Method 1
incorporates energy absorption and manipulation systems, using linear and non-linear spring elements with dampening components to absorb and transfer energy
Implementation Method 2
using linear and non-linear spring elements with dampening components to absorb and transfer energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.