Magnetic Orthosis Assembly for Easy Positioning and Secure Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Applying multi-part orthoses, particularly those requiring specific positioning and posture fixation, is difficult and unsafe for individuals with limited motor function due to nerve damage or impairment, especially when the natural posture is not the intended position.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first and second dimensionally stable component with magnetic and positive locking elements, where the second component is positioned relative to the first using magnetic attraction and then secured with a positive locking connection, facilitated by magnetic elements guiding the components into the correct orientation and prevented from unwanted movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple rigid components are used to provide stable support, then the stability and support function is improved, but the difficulty of application increases significantly for users with limited motor function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual alignment and connection operations with magnetic field-based automatic positioning. Magnetic attraction forces automatically guide components into correct alignment and maintain connection, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning and complex fastening operations by users with limited motor function.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis components perform self-alignment and self-connection through magnetic attraction. When components are brought near each other, magnetic forces automatically position them correctly and maintain the connection without requiring active manipulation by the user, enabling users with limited motor function to apply the device independently.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic elements are used to guide components into position, then the ease of positioning is improved, but the risk of unintended movement or detachment worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines magnetic attraction elements with positive locking mechanical elements in a hybrid connection system. The magnetic elements provide automatic positioning and initial holding, while the positive locking elements provide secure mechanical interlocking that prevents unintended detachment, achieving both ease of positioning and secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connection interface have different functional properties: one region contains magnetic elements for automatic positioning and attraction, while another region contains positive locking elements for secure mechanical engagement. This local differentiation allows each mechanism to perform its specialized function optimally.
3Measurement precision
If precise initial alignment is required for proper positioning, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the motor effort required worsens for users with nerve damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual alignment operations with magnetic field-based automatic positioning. Magnetic attraction forces automatically guide components into correct alignment when they are brought near each other, eliminating the need for users to exert motor effort to achieve precise positioning manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic elements are pre-positioned on the components to create predetermined attraction zones. When components are brought near each other, these pre-positioned magnetic elements automatically guide the components into the correct relative positioning without requiring active manipulation by the user.
4Adaptability or versatility
If components are designed to be easily separated for adjustment, then the adaptability is improved, but the stability during use worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines magnetic attraction with positive locking mechanical elements. During use, the positive locking elements maintain secure mechanical interlocking for stability. For adjustment, the magnetic elements allow components to be easily separated and repositioned by overcoming the magnetic attraction, providing adaptability without sacrificing stability during normal use.
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
Facilitates easy and safe application of orthoses by reducing motor effort and ensuring stable, secure positioning without requiring precise initial alignment, allowing for easy adjustment and fixation of the orthosis components.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic attraction force acts between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element
Implementation Method 2
the first positive locking element forms a positive locking connection with the second positive locking element, thereby preventing movement of the two components relative to each other
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~11
Figure 12~13
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for putting on an orthosis (2) comprising: a first dimensionally stable component (4) which has a first magnetic element (36) and a first form-fitting element (8); and a second dimensionally stable component (6) which has a second magnetic element (14) and a second form-fitting element (12), the method comprising the following steps: - putting the first component (4) against a body part of the wearer so that it extends along the body part, - positioning the second component (6) on the first component (4), wherein, in the applied state of the orthosis (2), a magnetic attractive force acts in a first direction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element, and the first form-fitting element forms a form-fitting connection with the second form-fitting element, said form-fitting connection preventing the two components from moving relative to one another.