Leg Stabilization Device with Adjustable Rail for Knee Torque Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing leg stabilization devices for exercise equipment are inadequate in maintaining good form and alignment for users with neurological or neuromuscular disabilities, as they can cause knee torque and fail to adjust to individual user needs, limiting effective rehabilitation and cardiovascular conditioning.

Innovation Solution

A leg stabilization device with a rail system, C-clamp, and adjustable collar that connects to an anchor point and a portion of the leg between the knee and hip, allowing for customizable alignment and rotation to prevent knee torque.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If boot devices attach to user's lower extremities below the knee to keep the leg aligned, then leg alignment is improved, but torque is created on the knee that can potentially cause injury to the ligaments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleg alignmentVSAvoidknee torque
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of attaching the stabilization device below the knee (conventional approach), the patent inverts the attachment point to above the knee, connecting to the thigh portion. This inversion changes the mechanical leverage and eliminates the harmful torque on the knee joint while still providing leg alignment stabilization through the rail and pedal connection system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Ease of operation

If boot devices provide one fixed position for leg alignment, then alignment control is simplified, but adaptability to individual user needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment controlVSAvoiduser-specific alignment adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates adjustable components including a telescoping rail mechanism that allows length adjustment, and a positionable clamp that can be moved along the rail to different locations. These dynamic adjustment features enable the device to adapt to individual user leg dimensions and alignment requirements while maintaining straightforward operation through mechanical adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7540830B2Leg stabilization device
Publication Date: 2009.06.02 NUSTEP LLC
  • US7540830B2 patent drawing
  • US7540830B2 patent drawing
  • US7540830B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for stabilizing a leg of a user includes a rail having a first end and a second end. The rail generally defines a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end. The first end is capable of being connected to an anchor point while the second end is capable of being connected to a portion of the leg located between the knee and the hip of the leg.