Horse Leg Wrap with Multi-Layer Composite for Moisture and Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current horse leg wraps fail to provide adequate protection, comfort, and hygiene due to inadequate moisture management, ventilation, thermal regulation, and shock absorption, leading to injuries and unhygienic conditions.
Innovation Solution
Development of multi-layered composite materials with improved moisture-wicking, ventilation, thermal management, and shock-absorbing properties, using polymeric compositions combined with natural fibers and super-absorbent polymers, which are cost-effective, degradable, and non-toxic, to create wraps and pads that maintain skin dryness and comfort during exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional single or multiple types of padding material (wool, polyester-wool mix) are used, then the wrap provides basic cushioning, but the material fails to provide adequate breathability, ventilation, cooling, thermal management, and consistent compression
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap is divided into multiple functional layers, each performing a specific function: an inner layer for moisture management, a middle layer for cushioning and compression, and an outer layer for ventilation and protection. This segmentation allows each layer to optimize its specific function rather than relying on a single material to perform all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite materials combining different properties in each layer. The inner layer uses moisture-wicking materials, the middle layer uses compressible cushioning materials, and the outer layer uses breathable materials. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by providing both protection and moisture/thermal management.
2Strength
If the wrap material provides high compression and support, then the ligaments and tendons are better supported, but the material may cause micro-trauma to tissues under repetitive loading
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap provides different levels of compression and support in different zones along the leg. Areas requiring more support (such as around the fetlock and cannon bone) receive higher compression, while areas requiring more flexibility receive lower compression. This local variation in material properties provides necessary support without causing micro-trauma from uniform excessive compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The wrap material is designed to be dynamic rather than static, allowing it to adapt its compression level based on the horse's movement and swelling. The material can expand and contract, providing consistent support while accommodating changes in leg volume during exercise and recovery, thereby preventing micro-trauma from rigid, unyielding compression.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the wrap is made from non-degradable synthetic materials, then durability is improved, but hygiene deteriorates due to bacterial growth and inability to wash
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs disposable wraps made from biodegradable materials that can be discarded after a single use. This eliminates the hygiene problem of bacterial growth in reusable materials while maintaining adequate durability for the intended single-use application. The low cost of these disposable materials makes this approach economically viable.
4Strength
If the wrap uses laterally extending straps or cradle slings for fetlock support, then the fetlock joint receives support, but the wrap becomes difficult to apply properly and may not adequately cover the fetlock
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using lateral straps that extend sideways, the invention provides fetlock support through a three-dimensional cup-shaped structure that cradles the fetlock from below. This dimensional change from two-dimensional straps to a three-dimensional form provides adequate coverage and support while being simpler to apply, as it requires only vertical positioning rather than lateral adjustment.
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 significantly reduces skin wetness and maintains skin temperature, providing enhanced protection and comfort by effectively managing moisture and thermal regulation, while preventing bacterial growth and extending the wraps' usability.
Implementation Method 1
The embodiments disclosed herein are directed to improved materials for wraps, saddle pads and the like. These materials display improved moisture wicking and absorption properties
Implementation Method 2
The wrapping material composition, moisture uptake, water absorption, permeation rates, and breathability help prevent the spread of bacteria, fungus, and viruses
Implementation Method 3
these materials have limited capabilities in providing breathability, ventilation, cooling, thermal management
Implementation Method 4
The ability of a leg wrap to wick away moisture, and/or absorb moisture and thermal energy from the skin is important preventing injury
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments herein describe accessory equipment for equestrian applications, and in particular a flexible protective wrap or boot for supporting and protecting the upper and lower leg of a horse, including the fetlock joint. When wrapped or fastened to a horse limb, the exemplary wrap can impact strength, friction surfaces, elongation, porosity, compression, breathability, water and moisture evaporation, elasticity, absorbency and cushioning. The wrapping structure may include improved limb support, general limb protection, and treatment for swollen legs, fetlock and pastern. Embodiments described herein may include limb protection in general and particularly during trailering and long transit in motor vehicles and trailers, cellulitis treatment, and providing compression that does not disrupt lymphatic flow and blood circulation when wrapping is applied.