Independent Knee Rotation Therapy Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current knee range of motion therapy machines are inefficient, costly, and unable to independently rotate the knee from the hip, apply anatomically matched rotational forces, or record usage data, limiting their ability to provide effective active and passive therapy.
Innovation Solution
A device with a frame that includes link members secured to the upper and lower legs, actuators for independent rotation, and a controller to manage the therapy, allowing for anatomical matching and data recording, enabling independent knee rotation and concurrent active and passive therapy modalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual passive range of motion therapy is applied by a therapist, then knee flexion and extension ranges can be improved, but the therapy is time-consuming, inefficient, and costly due to frequent travel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a therapy device that enables patients to perform passive range of motion exercises independently at home without requiring a therapist's physical presence. The device includes a motorized actuator that automatically moves the patient's leg through flexion and extension cycles, allowing the patient to receive therapy by simply positioning themselves on the device. This self-service capability eliminates the need for frequent therapist-patient travel while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If therapy machines are provided for home use, then patient convenience is improved, but current machines cannot independently rotate the knee from the hip or apply anatomically matched rotational forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the leg movement into two independent rotational segments: hip rotation (first link member) and knee rotation (second link member). Each segment is controlled by a separate actuator that can operate independently or in coordination. This segmentation allows the device to replicate the complex biomechanics of human movement, where the hip and knee can rotate independently, and enables anatomically accurate therapy by matching the natural kinematic chain of the leg.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates adjustable parameters including rotation range limits, rotation speed, and torque control to match anatomical requirements. The control system allows programming of specific flexion and extension angle ranges, rotation velocities, and force application profiles that correspond to therapeutic protocols. These parameter adjustments enable the device to provide anatomically matched rotational forces while maintaining patient comfort and safety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current knee range of motion machines are used, then some therapy can be provided, but they require two separate machines for flexion and extension or cannot record usage data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single integrated therapy device that performs both passive range of motion therapy and active exercise therapy. The device includes a control system that can operate in multiple modes: fully passive mode where the actuator drives all movement, and active mode where the patient exerts force against resistance provided by the actuator. The same hardware platform supports different therapeutic protocols, eliminating the need for separate machines for different therapy types while providing a comprehensive rehabilitation solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a control system with sensors that monitor device operation and patient response. The system tracks usage data including number of exercise cycles, range of motion achieved, force applied, and duration of therapy sessions. This feedback is recorded and can be displayed to the patient or transmitted to healthcare providers for monitoring progress. The feedback mechanism enables the device to adapt to patient needs and provides objective measures of therapy effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An end range of motion improving device is disclosed including, first and second link members to independently rotate an upper leg and a lower leg of a patient, having a controller to selectively rotate the link members, and a networked computing system to facilitate communication between the controller and other networked devices.