Leg Lifting Sock With Foot-Strap Force Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leg and foot mobility aids often require dexterity for use, place unnecessary strain on the leg and foot, and are inaccessible for individuals with limited mobility, necessitating assistance from others for everyday tasks.
Innovation Solution
A leg lifting assistance sock with straps that run down the sides and underneath the foot, incorporating handle options and a lifting mechanism directly into a sock, allowing users to control foot movement and reduce strain by distributing force along the base of the foot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing mobility aids use straps that require user dexterity to loop around the foot, then the device can provide leg lifting support, but it becomes inaccessible to individuals with limited mobility or dexterity
Solution Approach 1:
The sock is designed to be pulled on using the handles attached to the upper portion, allowing the user to independently don the device without assistance. The elastic material and handle configuration enable self-servicing even for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sock utilizes elastic material with varying stretch characteristics to accommodate different foot sizes and mobility levels. The elastic portions at the foot and calf areas provide adaptive fit without requiring precise adjustment, making the device suitable for a wide range of users including those with limited dexterity.
2Force
If existing products place force directly on the leg and foot to lift the limb, then leg lifting is achieved, but unnecessary strain is placed on the injured or weakened limb
Solution Approach 1:
The sock acts as an intermediary device that distributes lifting force across multiple body parts. By anchoring to the foot, lower leg, and upper leg simultaneously, the sock transfers the lifting load from the injured area to the stronger thigh and hip muscles, reducing strain on the vulnerable foot and lower leg.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting mechanism is divided into multiple anchor points segmented along the leg: foot anchoring, lower leg compression, and upper leg support. This segmentation allows the lifting force to be distributed across different muscle groups rather than concentrated on one area, preventing excessive strain on the injured limb.
3Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is integrated into a sock, then mobility and independence are enhanced, but the device complexity increases compared to simple external straps
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism is merged with a sock, combining the functions of compression wear and therapeutic lifting device into a single integrated product. This eliminates the need for separate straps and anchoring devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining independence-enhancing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The sock serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides compression, anchors the lifting mechanism, and acts as the structural framework for force distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device while enhancing user independence.
Data Source
AI summary
The leg lifting assistance sock has a sock, an upper strap, and a lower strap. The leg lifting assistance sock utilizes straps that run down the sides of the leg and extend underneath the foot. The leg lifting assistance sock incorporates two different handle options to provide choices to the wearer based on their needs. The leg lifting assistance sock provides a lift at the knee while assisting the wearer in controlling foot movement. The left lifting assistance sock enhances mobility, improve stability, and promotes independence for those with limited leg control.