Limb-Mounted Implement Support with Shape-Retentive Bendable Core

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing assist devices for portable implements are limited in versatility, often designed for specific types and orientations of handles, requiring multiple devices for different tasks and limbs, and can cause discomfort due to limited surface engagement.

Innovation Solution

A securing assembly with a shape retentive, bendable core and cushioning layer that can be formed into various shapes to securely support implements on any limb, allowing for multiple working positions and orientations, and accommodating various types of implements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing assist devices are designed for specific types and orientations of handles, then they can provide stable support for that specific implement, but they lack versatility and require multiple devices for different tasks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of different implement types and orientationsVSAvoidnumber of devices needed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The securing assembly is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of implements (cutlery, writing instruments, tools, etc.) and maintain them in various orientations. The elongate body portion can be configured to secure implements in different positions, allowing a single device to replace multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The securing assembly incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow it to adapt its structure dynamically. The body portion can be formed into different configurations to match various implement shapes and desired orientations, enabling the device to transform from a static to a dynamic, adaptable structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Object-affected harmful factors

If assist devices engage the limb over a relatively small area, then they are easier to manufacture and less bulky, but they produce discomfort and limit stabilization ability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomfort and stabilization capabilityVSAvoidsurface area of engagement

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The securing assembly features an elongate body portion with curved surfaces designed to conform to the natural contours of human limbs. This curvature allows the device to distribute contact pressure evenly across a larger surface area of the limb, improving comfort and stabilization without increasing bulk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The securing assembly incorporates a flexible, conformable body that can adapt to the limb's shape. This flexible structure allows for increased surface area engagement while maintaining a lightweight and non-bulky form factor, distributing pressure evenly to prevent discomfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing devices are made for a single type of handle, then they can provide precise support for that handle type, but they cannot accommodate differently configured implements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle type accommodationVSAvoidsupport precision for specific implement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The securing assembly employs a universal securing mechanism with multiple interface options that can accommodate various handle types (rounded, rectangular, cylindrical, etc.). The design maintains reliable support precision for each specific implement type through adjustable positioning elements and multiple engagement points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the securing assembly have specialized local characteristics optimized for specific handle types. The body portion includes varied engagement surfaces and positioning features at different locations, allowing each local area to provide precise support for its corresponding implement type while the whole system remains versatile.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 comfortable and stable use of portable implements across different limbs and tasks with a single device, providing versatility and improved user experience by securely supporting implements in multiple positions and orientations.

Implementation Method 1

an elongate body portion configured to be formed into different maintainable shapes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

A cushioning layer surrounds the shape retentive bendable core

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression and cushioning: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS11464321B1Method of supporting an implement in a working position on a human limb

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 PHILLIPS WENDY

AI summary

A method of supporting an implement in at least one working position on at least one limb of a person including the steps of: obtaining a securing assembly comprising an elongate body portion formable into different maintainable shapes; forming the elongate body portion with respect to a part of the at least one limb to thereby cause the securing assembly to be maintained on the at least one limb; and operatively engaging the securing assembly and implement to thereby cause the implement to be supported in the one working position, whereby with the implement supported in the one working position, the person can move his/her at least one limb to cause the implement to perform a task.