Modifiable Knee Brace Kit with Trim Lines and Hook-and-Loop Straps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post-operative orthotic devices lack versatility and customization options to effectively manage pain, support joints, and facilitate recovery, as they often fail to provide tailored fit and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modifiable hot/cold therapy knee brace kit featuring a wrap with hook-and-loop engagement elements, adjustable straps, and trim lines for customization, along with a pocket for thermal packs and replacement points for strap tips, allowing for personalized fit and therapy application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing post-operative orthotic devices are used, then basic joint support is provided, but versatility and customization options are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device is divided into multiple independent components including a wrap, straps with engagement elements, thermal packs, and optional hinges. Each component can be independently selected, adjusted, or removed based on specific patient needs, enabling customization without requiring complete device redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable straps with hook-and-loop engagement elements that allow dynamic adjustment of fit and tightness. The wrap can be trimmed to different lengths, and thermal packs can be added or removed, enabling the device to adapt to changing patient requirements during recovery.
2Ease of operation
If a standardized orthotic device is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but tailored fit for individual patients cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The wrap is pre-marked with trim lines indicating where it should be cut to achieve proper fit. This preliminary preparation simplifies the customization process for patients or caregivers while maintaining manufacturing efficiency, as the base product is produced标准化 but can be easily adapted.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be easily adjusted and trimmed by the patient or caregiver without requiring specialized tools or expertise. The hook-and-loop engagement elements allow for simple strap adjustment, and the trim lines guide proper customization, enabling self-service fitting.
3Adaptability or versatility
If basic orthotic support is provided, then joint stability is achieved, but pain management and therapy options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device serves multiple functions: mechanical support through the wrap and straps, thermal therapy through removable hot/cold packs, and optional motion control through hinges. This multi-functionality is achieved by adding modular components rather than creating entirely separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal packs are designed to be inserted into pockets or compartments within the wrap structure. The hinges can be attached to the wrap at specific locations. This nesting approach allows multiple functions to be integrated into a single device system without creating excessive separate components.
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 kit provides a customizable and effective solution for post-operative care, allowing for tailored support, pain management, and enhanced recovery by enabling adjustable fit and application of thermal therapy.
Implementation Method 1
The outer surface carries a first engagement element of a hook-and-loop engagement, the straps terminate at tips, and the inner surface at the tips carries a second engagement element of the hook-and-loop engagement complemental to the first engagement element
Implementation Method 2
A pocket is applied to the inner surface of the wrap, and a thermal pack carried in the pocket
Data Source
AI summary
A knee brace kit includes a wrap having opposed inner and outer surfaces, and a body and straps extending from the body. The outer surface carries a first engagement element of a hook-and-loop engagement, the straps terminate at tips, and the inner surface at the tips carries a second engagement element of the hook-and-loop engagement complemental to the first engagement element. A hole in the wrap is located such that, when the wrap is worn by a person, the hole is disposed over a knee of the person and the straps are wrapped above and below the hole, defining an applied arrangement of the wrap. There are a plurality of trim lines indicated on the body, which, when the wrap is trimmed along the trim lines, maintain the applied arrangement of the straps with respect to the hole.