Hip Orthosis Movable Pad Mechanism for Pain Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional joint orthoses, such as those for the hip joint, compromise wearing comfort due to mechanically stable constructions that require straps and bandages, which can exacerbate pain in arthrotically affected joints by restricting mobility and causing discomfort, especially in treating conditions like hip arthrosis.
Innovation Solution
An articulated splint with an actively movable pad that slides along a carriage track, driven by a motion transmitting mechanism, providing a massaging effect and gentle pulling action during joint movement to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanically stable construction with straps and bandages is used to provide supporting effect, then the orthotic function is improved, but the wearing comfort is reduced and pain is exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a dynamically adjustable strap system that can change its fastening state between locked and unlocked positions. This allows the orthosis to transition from a rigid supportive structure to a more flexible configuration, reducing discomfort while maintaining orthotic function. The dynamic adjustment capability enables the device to adapt to patient comfort needs without compromising structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap tension and positioning parameters can be modified through the adjustable fastening system. By changing the fastening state of individual straps, the overall mechanical properties of the orthosis can be adjusted to balance support and comfort. This parameter adjustment allows optimization of both orthotic effectiveness and wearing comfort based on patient-specific needs.
2Reliability
If straps and bandage elements are used to ensure mechanical stability, then the supporting effect is improved, but patient acceptance and compliance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable fastening system enables dynamic adaptation of the orthosis to individual patient preferences and comfort levels. Patients can adjust strap tightness and positioning to achieve an acceptable balance between support and comfort, thereby improving acceptance and compliance. This adaptability transforms a rigid one-size-fits-all device into a customizable solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap system is divided into multiple independently adjustable segments. Each strap can be fastened or unfastened separately, allowing patients to customize the orthosis configuration to their specific comfort needs while maintaining necessary support in critical areas. This segmentation provides versatility in adjustment options.
3Stability of the object's composition
If chronic inflammation causes soft tissues to contract and restrict mobility, then joint stability is improved, but movement becomes painful and range of motion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The orthosis incorporates dynamic elements including the adjustable strap system and movable pad that can adapt during movement. The movable pad actively follows joint motion to provide continuous therapeutic contact, while the adjustable straps allow optimization of support during different phases of movement. This dynamic design maintains joint stability while accommodating and facilitating improved range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable pad is designed to automatically track and follow joint movement without requiring active control. As the joint moves through its range of motion, the pad passively adapts its position to maintain therapeutic contact with the soft tissues, providing continuous gentle stretching and pain relief throughout the movement cycle.
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to an active joint orthosis, particularly an orthosis for the hip joint, with an extended therapeutic function and including a joint splint with articulated arms that can be pivoted relative to one another and a pad that can be actively moved via a coupling joint or cam profile on one articulated arm.