Inflatable Limb Manipulation Apparatus for Joint Range of Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical devices for promoting joint range of motion are often cumbersome due to complex structural frameworks, making them difficult for patients to manipulate and transport.
Innovation Solution
A simplistic orthopedic apparatus utilizing inflatable members with a two-ply configuration, comprising pliable planar members that can be selectively inflated to apply forces on a user's limb, facilitating joint manipulation without a structural framework.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex structural frameworks are used in mechanical devices, then joint manipulation capability is improved, but device portability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex structural framework from traditional mechanical devices and extracts only the essential functional element - the inflatable member. This inflatable member can be selectively inflated to provide manipulation forces on the joint without requiring any rigid structural support, thereby eliminating the cumbersome framework while maintaining joint manipulation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using an inflatable member that can be selectively inflated with gas or fluid. This pneumatic mechanism provides the necessary manipulation forces through inflation and deflation cycles, replacing the need for complex mechanical structures with a simple yet effective pressure-based system that is both portable and easy to operate.
2Reliability
If complex structural frameworks are used in mechanical devices, then joint support capability is improved, but device portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential support function from complex structural frameworks and implements it through a lightweight inflatable member. When inflated, this member provides adequate joint support and stability without the weight penalty of rigid structural elements, thereby achieving reliable joint support with minimal device weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the inflatable member - specifically the transition from deflated to inflated state - to provide variable support capability. When support is needed, the member is inflated to provide stability; when portability is prioritized, it can be deflated to minimize weight and bulk, thus achieving both reliable support and portability.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical therapy devices are designed to be portable, then ease of transport is improved, but manipulation capability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pneumatic pressure generated by inflating the member to provide substantial manipulation forces on the joint. This pressure-based mechanism can generate sufficient force for effective joint manipulation while keeping the device lightweight and portable, as the force generation relies on fluid pressure rather than heavy mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the inflatable member - specifically volume and pressure variations during inflation and deflation cycles - to provide variable manipulation forces. This allows the device to deliver adequate manipulation force when needed while maintaining portability through its ability to be deflated for easy transport.
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 inflatable apparatus provides controlled and repetitive movement of joints, enhancing range of motion with ease of use and portability, addressing the complexity and bulk issues of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
the inflatable member being configured to be selectively inflatable so as to provide at least one inflation force upon the user's limb
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide assemblies for manipulating a user's limb with at least one inflatable member. The assemblies comprise a first pliable planar member and a second pliable planar member overlaid atop at least a portion of the first pliable planar member, such that a two ply configuration is provided. The two ply configuration itself comprises at least a distal and a proximal portion and at least one opening configured to accept at least a portion of the user's limb. The first and second pliable planar members combine to define at least one inflatable member, the inflatable member being at least a portion of at least one of the distal and proximal portions, the inflatable member being configured to be selectively inflatable so as to provide at least one inflation force upon the user's limb, such that the joint in the user's limb is manipulated. Associated methods are also provided.