Helix-Shaped Ankle Brace for Fast Secure Strapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ankle braces are cumbersome to apply and remove, bulky, and add weight, which affects comfort and performance during physical activities.
Innovation Solution
A flexible ankle brace with a partial helix-shaped splint and two adjustable straps that fasten quickly and easily, reducing bulk and weight compared to traditional laced braces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shoelace closure system and flexible base are used in the ankle brace, then the ankle brace can be securely fastened to the foot and ankle, but the application and removal process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The ankle brace is divided into separate functional components: a flexible base that envelops the foot and ankle, and a distinct closure system with straps and buckles. This segmentation allows the closure mechanism to be independently optimized for quick adjustment while maintaining secure fastening, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system uses adjustable straps with buckles that can be dynamically tightened or loosened in seconds, replacing the static and time-consuming shoelace tying process. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains secure fastening while dramatically improving ease of operation during application and removal.
2Reliability
If a shoelace closure system and flexible base are used in the ankle brace, then the ankle brace can be securely fastened to the foot and ankle, but the bulk and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from traditional ankle braces, replacing the bulky shoelace closure system and thick flexible base with a streamlined design using minimal straps and buckles. This extraction reduces overall weight and bulk while preserving the essential secure fastening function through the retained closure components.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible base is redesigned as a thin, form-fitting shell that envelops the foot and ankle without excessive bulk. This thin-film approach maintains the necessary flexibility and secure fit while significantly reducing weight compared to traditional thick flexible bases combined with shoelace systems.
3Reliability
If a shoelace closure system and flexible base are used in the ankle brace, then the ankle brace can be securely fastened to the foot and ankle, but the bulk increases affecting comfort and fit into footwear
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the ankle brace into a slim flexible base and separate closure straps, the overall volume is reduced. The base can be made thin and form-fitting, while the closure system uses minimal-material buckles and straps, collectively reducing bulk while maintaining secure fastening capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible base is constructed as a thin film or shell that conforms to the foot and ankle contours, minimizing volume. This thin-film construction eliminates the need for bulky traditional bases, allowing the ankle brace to fit comfortably into athletic footwear while maintaining secure fastening through the separate closure system.
Data Source
AI summary
An ankle brace with a flexible splint that includes a stirrup shape fastened to the foot, a middle section formed as a partial helix shape that extends from the outside of the foot over the instep, and an upper end fastened to the leg at a point above the ankle and above the inside of the foot.