Modular Orthopedic Back Shell with Adjustable Connectors

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing orthopedic back shells lack adaptability to varying body structures and sizes, particularly in the lumbar spine and pelvic region, while providing anatomically correct stability and wearer comfort.

Innovation Solution

A modular back shell design comprising multiple flexible shell parts connected via adjustable connector elements, allowing for variable positioning and attachment to accommodate different body circumferences and structures, with features such as oblong holes and various connector types for enhanced adjustability and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a one-piece rigid back shell is used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different body sizes and shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different body sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The back shell is divided into multiple separate shell parts (first shell part, second shell part, and optionally third shell part) that can be connected together. This segmentation allows each part to be independently sized and positioned to accommodate different body dimensions while maintaining overall structural stability when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector elements incorporate adjustable mechanisms (such as slots, holes, or movable connection points) that allow the shell parts to be positioned at different locations and orientations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same back shell design to adapt to various body sizes and shapes while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a modular design with multiple shell parts is used, then adaptability to different body sizes is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different body sizesVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The back shell is divided into multiple separate shell parts (first shell part, second shell part, and optionally third shell part) that can be connected together. This segmentation allows each part to be independently sized and positioned to accommodate different body dimensions while maintaining overall structural stability when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector elements are designed with universal adaptability features, such as multiple connection positions, slots, or holes that can accommodate different configurations. This allows the same connector design to work across various shell part combinations and body types, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If adjustable connector elements are used, then ease of adjustment is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidmanufacturing precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The connector elements incorporate adjustable mechanisms (such as slots, holes, or movable connection points) that allow the shell parts to be positioned at different locations and orientations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same back shell design to adapt to various body sizes and shapes while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connector elements include pre-designed adjustment mechanisms with built-in tolerance compensation features, such as slots with sufficient length, multiple hole positions, or overlapping adjustment ranges. These features provide a 'cushion' that absorbs manufacturing variations, allowing easy adjustment without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS10624777B2Variable back shell having two side shell parts

Publication Date: 2020.04.21 BAUERFEIND GMBH & CO

AI summary

The invention relates to a variable orthopaedic back shell having two side shell parts, which can be used as a back orthosis or as a holder for other orthoses, for example shoulder orthoses. The invention also relates to an orthosis which includes a back shell according to the invention, and to the orthopedic use of the back shells.