Modular Abdominal Support with Adjustable Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing abdominal support systems, such as prenatal cradles, have limitations including permanently affixed components that complicate adjustment and replacement, making it difficult to provide effective and comfortable support for individuals with distended abdomens due to obesity or pregnancy.
Innovation Solution
A modular abdominal support system comprising an adjustable abdominal band, removable shoulder straps, and groin bands made from stretchable materials like styrene butadiene rubber, with hook and loop fasteners for easy adjustment and customization, allowing for various configurations to suit individual comfort and support needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If components are permanently affixed to each other, then structural stability is improved, but adjustment and replacement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate modular components (abdominal support, back support, groin support, shoulder straps) that can be independently adjusted, removed, or replaced while maintaining overall structural stability through coordinated fastening mechanisms
2Device complexity
If components are permanently affixed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates adjustable and removable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different body sizes, support needs, and comfort preferences, transforming a static structure into a flexible, user-configurable support system
3Adaptability or versatility
If stretchable materials are used, then comfort and adaptability are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes stretchable materials with controlled elastic properties to provide adaptive support that conforms to individual body contours, leveraging material parameter changes (elasticity) to achieve comfort and fit without requiring precise manufacturing tolerances
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
The system provides customizable and comfortable support for the abdomen, lower back, and groin area, accommodating changes in weight and discomfort levels, enhancing daily living activities for individuals with distended abdomens.
Implementation Method 1
made from stretchable materials like styrene butadiene rubber
Implementation Method 2
with hook and loop fasteners for easy adjustment and customization
Data Source
AI summary
A support system includes: an abdominal band for supporting weight of an abdomen of a user, the abdominal band adapted for encircling a lower portion of the abdomen and resting on hips and lower back of the user; a pair of shoulder straps, each shoulder strap adapted for passing over a respective shoulder of the user and fastening with the abdominal band over an anterior of the user and over a posterior of the user; and a pair of groin bands, each groin band adapted for passing under a crotch of the user and fastening with the abdominal band over an anterior of the user and over a posterior of the user. A method of use and another method for fabrication are provided.