Multi-Axis Motion Stabilizer Using Nested Curved Cups
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rehabilitation devices after injury or surgery limit joint motion in only one direction, failing to allow full recovery by restricting movement in all normal directions, which is necessary for complete healing without risking re-injury from overextension.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable, multi-axis motion stabilizer apparatus comprising curved cups with a size adjustment device, allowing controlled movement in one or multiple axes by varying the pin shoulder size or plug hole size, ensuring gradual expansion of joint motion as healing progresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If motion is completely prohibited to stabilize the joint during healing, then joint stability is improved, but the joint cannot recover fully because motion in all normal directions is necessary for complete healing
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static immobilization approach to a dynamic rehabilitation approach. The cup and pin mechanism allows the joint to progress from complete immobilization (pin fitting tightly in cup) to full range of motion (pin free to move within enlarged cup) as healing progresses, adapting the range of motion to the healing stage
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the parameter of motion restriction progressively. Initially, the pin fits tightly in the cup to provide maximum stability. As healing progresses, the cup is enlarged or the pin is modified to allow increased range of motion in multiple directions, transforming the device from a rigid stabilizer to a flexible rehabilitation tool
2Reliability
If motion is limited to one axis only, then protection against overextension is improved, but full recovery is prevented because joints must move in any normal direction to heal completely
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically adjusts the number of restricted axes. In the initial phase, the pin-cup mechanism restricts motion to one axis. As healing progresses, the system transitions to allow motion in multiple axes by enlarging the cup or modifying the pin, enabling multi-directional movement while maintaining protection against excessive motion
Solution Approach 2:
The rehabilitation process is segmented into phases. The device structure is divided into components (cup and pin) that can be independently modified. Different sized cups or pin configurations can be used for different rehabilitation stages, allowing progression from single-axis to multi-axis motion as healing progresses
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable, multi-axis, motion stabilizer apparatus and method includes a first curved cup with a curved radius, the first curved cup with an inside surface and an outside surface. A cup hole extends through the first curved cup. A second curved cup is provided, also with a curved radius. The curved radius of the second curved cup is approximately equal to the curved radius of the first curved cup. The second cup also includes an inside surface and an outside surface where the outside surface of the second curved cup fits with the inside surface of the first curved cup. A cup hole is provided in the second curved cup and a pin, conformed to fit in the cup holes, connects the first curved cup with the second curved cup. Also, a size adjustment device is provided for controlling movement of the pin within the cup holes.