Instep Weight Attachment With Offset Torque for Ankle Rehabilitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instep weighting devices for shoes are limited in their ability to provide specific and effective training and rehabilitation effects tailored to the biomechanical needs of users, particularly for conditions like pronation or supination of the ankle.
Innovation Solution
A device with a body that attaches to the central area of the instep and features a second coupling offset from the first coupling, allowing a weight to exert a torque about the shoe's longitudinal axis, positioning the weight to one side of the instep for targeted muscle strengthening and rehabilitation exercises.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the weight is positioned on the central area of the instep, then the device is stable and easy to attach, but it cannot provide targeted training effects for specific musculature or address foot deviation problems
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the weight positioning function by providing multiple coupling options: a first coupling for central instep attachment and a second coupling offset from the first coupling for lateral weight placement. This segmentation allows the same device to achieve both central stabilization and targeted lateral training effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a lateral dimension to the weight placement by offsetting the second coupling from the central longitudinal axis. This dimensional change enables the weight to exert torque about the longitudinal axis, creating rotational training effects that address pronation or supination issues while maintaining the simple central attachment mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second coupling is offset from the longitudinal axis to exert torque, then targeted muscle strengthening is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the central attachment function and lateral weight positioning function into a single integrated body structure. The first and second couplings are combined in one component that attaches to the instep, eliminating the need for separate devices for central and lateral weight placement, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the offset coupling configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The body of the device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a central attachment point for stability and as a lateral weight positioning mechanism for targeted rehabilitation. This universal design allows one device to perform multiple functions: central stabilization, lateral torque application, and adaptable weight positioning for various rehabilitation needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the weight is placed to one side of the instep, then specific musculature is strengthened and foot deviation problems are addressed, but the weight may move during use reducing user comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by providing a pre-configured offset coupling position that is designed to minimize weight movement during exercise. The coupling geometry and positioning are predetermined to maintain optimal contact between the weight and the user's foot/ankle structure throughout the range of motion, preventing unwanted weight displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The body of the device acts as an intermediary between the weight and the user's foot. It provides a stable mounting structure that secures the offset weight while distributing forces evenly, preventing the weight from moving during use. The body structure mediates between the lateral weight position and the central attachment point, ensuring stability throughout the exercise motion.
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 device provides targeted training and rehabilitation effects by strengthening specific musculature, addressing issues such as pronation or supination of the ankle, enhancing user comfort and reducing weight movement during use.
Implementation Method 1
when a weight is attached to the second coupling it exerts a torque on the body about the longitudinal axis of the shoe
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A device (1) for attaching a weight (4) on the instep (100) of a shoe (101) comprising a body (2) having: - a first coupling (23, 24) to releasably fasten the body (2) to a central area of the instep (100) of a shoe (101), such that when the device (1) is in use a part (21) of the body (2) overlaps the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe (101), and - a second coupling (25, 26) to fasten a weight (4) to the body (2); wherein the second coupling (25, 26) is offset from the first coupling (23, 24) such that, when the device (1) is in use, the second coupling (25, 26) is offset from the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe (101), whereby when a weight (4) is attached to the second coupling (25, 26) it exerts a torque on the body (2) about the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe (101).