Integrated Flotation Device With Handgrips For Aquatic Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patients with motor deficits or disorders face challenges in maintaining balance and stability during aquatic therapy, requiring additional support to walk and exercise in water without relying on external assistance, and existing flotation devices do not adequately provide the necessary handgrips for maneuverability.
Innovation Solution
A substantially flat buoyant flotation device with a forward section and side sections, made from foamed polymers or lightweight wood, featuring handholds and adjustable pegs for support, allowing patients to stand and move independently in the water while providing buoyancy and resistance for rehabilitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional flotation devices (floatation collars, water wings, kickboards, buoyancy vests) are used, then patients receive buoyancy support in water, but they lack adequate handgrips for maneuverability and independent movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flotation chambers into a single integrated board structure that provides both buoyancy support and handgrip surfaces. The front section and side sections are merged into one cohesive device that simultaneously offers trunk support and maneuverability controls, eliminating the need for separate floatation devices and handgrips.
Solution Approach 2:
The flotation device is divided into distinct functional sections: a front section for primary buoyancy and handgrip, and side sections for additional support and stability. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall device simplicity.
2Productivity
If patients use external support (handrails, pool edges) during aquatic therapy, then they maintain stability, but they cannot exercise independently away from pool edges
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device is designed to be self-supporting, providing both buoyancy and maneuverability controls in one integrated unit. Patients can independently maneuver the device using the handgrip surfaces without requiring external support structures, enabling them to exercise anywhere in the pool independently.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If patients with motor deficits attempt to move in water without flotation support, then they can move freely, but they risk injury due to inability to maintain balance
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple flotation chambers into a single stable board structure that provides comprehensive support. The integrated design with front and side sections creates a stable platform that reduces injury risk while maintaining simplicity in construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The flotation device provides preemptive support to patients before they attempt movements, reducing the risk of falling or injury. The handgrip surfaces and buoyant structure are designed in advance to catch and support patients during rehabilitation exercises.
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
Enables patients to regain motor coordination and muscle strength in a supportive environment, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing rehabilitation effectiveness by allowing independent movement and exercise away from pool edges.
Implementation Method 1
A substantially flat buoyant flotation device with a forward section and side sections... allowing patients to stand and move independently in the water while providing buoyancy
Data Source
AI summary
The present application is directed to a flotation device for use in aquatic physical therapy. The flotation device preferably comprises side portions that wholly or partly surround the user, and permit the user's elbow(s) and/or forearms to rest upon and be supported thereby. The flotation device also preferably has at least one handgrip permitting the user to easily hold onto and be supported by the flotation device. Additionally, the present invention comprises methods of making and using such a flotation device.