Hands-Free Knee Extension Stretch Device Using Torso-Leveraged Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knee extension stretch devices require manual assistance or user's hands/arms to apply static-progressive force, limiting independent use and effectiveness in rehabilitation.
Innovation Solution
A knee extension stretch device with a device body and torso wrap that allows users to apply force through leaning back, transferring force to the leg for controlled extension without using hands or arms, featuring adjustable supports and a torso wrap for leverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual assistance or user's hands/arms are used to apply static-progressive force, then the force application is effective, but the device requires additional persons or uses user's arms/hands which limits independent use
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables the user to apply stretching force independently through their own body weight. The user positions themselves on the device and uses their body mass to generate the progressive static force needed for knee extension rehabilitation, eliminating the need for manual assistance or arm/hand strength
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the user's body weight as a counterbalancing force. By positioning the user's torso and legs in specific configurations on the device, their body weight creates the necessary mechanical advantage to generate controlled stretching force on the knee joint without requiring additional persons or upper body strength
2Reliability
If a device is designed to allow progressive modification of joint angle, then rehabilitation effectiveness is improved, but the device requires manual holding or moving which reduces ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows the user to control and adjust the joint angle modification through their own body movements and positioning. The user can progressively modify the knee extension angle by adjusting their body position on the device, maintaining reliable rehabilitation effectiveness while ensuring ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow the joint angle to be modified progressively as the user adjusts their position. The mechanical structure enables smooth, controlled changes in the knee extension angle through the user's natural body movements, combining reliability with ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A knee extension stretch device operable to apply force which assists in extension of the knee joint of a user in a static progressive manner which includes a device body having an attached torso wrap. The device body is structured to run along a substantially straightened target leg that is positioned in front of a seated user, with the connected torso wrap extending from the device body and encircling the user's torso. The device body is structured to transfer the force created by the user leaning back into the torso wrap into force which acts on the leg of the user both above the knee and below the knee simultaneously to force extension of the knee. In this regard, the user is able to apply force which helps with knee extension, and control the amount of force applied, without needing to use their hands or arms.