Knee Therapy Device with Worm Drive Actuator and Hip Stabilizer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knee surgery rehabilitation devices lack proper alignment guides, adjustable hip stabilizers, and automated continuous passive motion processes for effective knee flexion and extension exercises, limiting full range of motion recovery.
Innovation Solution
A therapy device with a resting platform, adjustable hip stabilizer belt, and motor-driven worm drive for controlled knee extension and flexion, along with an electronic system for pre-programmed continuous passive motion using cams and pulley systems to ensure precise and comfortable patient-directed therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior art knee rehabilitation devices are used, then basic knee motion is possible, but proper alignment and stable hip positioning cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates alignment guides that are pre-positioned to guide proper placement of the patient's leg and hip stabilizer belts that are pre-configured to secure hip positioning before rehabilitation exercises begin, ensuring correct alignment from the start without requiring complex adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment guides act as intermediary elements between the device structure and the patient's body, providing a simple mechanical interface that ensures proper alignment without requiring complex measurement or adjustment mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual knee exercises are performed, then some range of motion is achieved, but full range of motion recovery is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The worm drive mechanism provides automated control of the foot pedal assembly, enabling the device to perform the rehabilitation exercises autonomously without requiring the patient to manually operate complex mechanisms, while still allowing patient-directed control when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical effort required to perform knee exercises is replaced by an automated motor-driven worm drive system that controls foot pedal movement, enabling full range of motion exercises that would be difficult or impossible to perform manually
3Manufacturing precision
If simple foot support is provided, then basic exercise is possible, but precise controlled knee exercises cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The foot pedal assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the automated worm drive and the patient's foot, providing precise control over foot and knee motion through a simple, well-defined mechanical interface that is easy to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The worm drive mechanism enables precise control of foot pedal position and motion parameters through automated rotation, allowing for controlled knee flexion and extension exercises with adjustable range and speed while maintaining a relatively simple device structure
4Duration of action of moving object
If extended therapy sessions are conducted, then rehabilitation progress is improved, but patient comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated worm drive system performs the repetitive motion tasks autonomously, allowing the patient to rest while the device continues to provide controlled knee exercises, thereby maintaining patient comfort during extended therapy sessions
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables periodic, controlled knee flexion and extension cycles through automated operation, allowing for extended therapy duration with consistent, gentle motion that prevents patient fatigue and maintains comfort throughout the session
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
Enables full range of motion recovery by providing precise alignment, stable hip positioning, and automated controlled knee exercises, enhancing rehabilitation efficacy and patient comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator assembly contains a motor-driven worm drive positioned axially in the actuator assembly that is attached to a foot pedal assembly. When the worm drive is rotated in either direction, the foot pedal assembly moves toward or away from the resting platform causing knee extension and flexion.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a device and method for post-knee surgery therapy. A resting platform accommodates a patient in the seated position and is attached to an actuator assembly that allows the patient to extend their leg on the assembly. The actuator assembly connection is adjustable laterally and longitudinally. A foot pedal assembly is attached to a worm drive in the actuator assembly which, when activated, moves the patient's foot closer to or away from their hips causing knee flexion and extension. The therapy can be accomplished using an electronic device with preset measurements and durations.