Force-Measuring Mitt for Quantifying Knee Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing knee stability, particularly in the context of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), are subjective and lack quantification, leading to inconsistent outcomes and difficulties in determining proper graft placement during surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A force-measuring device with a mitt frame, including first and second force sensors, and a displacement-tracking system that allows for the quantification of knee laxity and stiffness in multiple directions, enabling objective assessment of joint stability during both diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If subjective feel-based assessment methods are used, then the assessment process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision and reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the subjective mechanical feel-based assessment with an optical measurement system using cameras and tracking markers to objectively measure joint stability parameters, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through software-based analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces force sensors as intermediaries between the examiner's manual manipulation and the measurement system, allowing the conversion of mechanical forces applied during clinical tests into quantifiable data that improves measurement precision without requiring the entire system to be complex
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple force sensors are integrated into the mitt frame, then the measurement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mitt frame with integrated force sensors serves multiple functions: it acts as a wearable sensor platform, a measurement device for joint stability, and a data collection interface, thereby improving measurement capability while justifying the increased device complexity through multi-functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the force sensing capability directly into the mitt frame structure, combining what could be separate devices into a single integrated wearable system, improving adaptability while consolidating device complexity into one unified structure
3Ease of operation
If the device is made portable and sterilizable, then the ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but the manufacturing precision and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device into sterilizable components (mitt frame, sensors) and non-sterilizable components (electronics module, processing system), allowing the critical measurement parts to be sterilized for surgical use while maintaining overall device reliability through modular design
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 provides a portable, sterilizable device that allows for precise quantification of knee stability, facilitating more accurate surgical procedures and improved patient outcomes by enabling objective measurement of joint stability, which was previously subjective.
Implementation Method 1
one or more first force sensors coupled to the palm portion and disposed on an exterior surface of the palm portion, one or more second force sensors coupled to the finger portion and disposed on an exterior surface of the finger portion
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes systems, devices, and methods for determining stability of a joint of a living subject. In one aspect, a force-measuring device for determining stability of a joint of a living subject is provided. In some examples, the force-measuring device includes a mitt frame configured to receive a hand of a user therein, one or more first force sensors, and one or more second force sensors. The mitt frame may include a palm portion configured to receive a palm of the user therein, and a finger portion configured to receive fingers of the user therein. The one or more first force sensors may be coupled to the palm portion and disposed on an exterior surface of the palm portion. The one or more second force sensors may be coupled to the finger portion and disposed on an exterior surface of the finger portion.