Multi-Position Stabilizing Apparatus for Joint Rehabilitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shoulder rehabilitation machines fail to stabilize the shoulder optimally, lack resistance for scapular retraction and adduction, and do not accommodate resisted internal and external rotation, limiting the range of motion, strength building, and stability for various joints.
Innovation Solution
A multi-position stabilizing and strengthening apparatus with a height-adjustable base, a track system for guided motion, and a rotatable tray assembly to secure and stabilize joints, along with sensors and a controller for monitoring exercise parameters and ensuring adherence to treatment protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional shoulder rehabilitation machines are used, then basic shoulder strengthening is possible, but optimal stabilization of the shoulder and glenohumeral joint is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including height-adjustable base, rotatable tray assembly, and movable brace assembly that can be repositioned along the track. These dynamic elements allow the device to adapt to different exercise positions and patient needs while maintaining optimal stabilization of the shoulder and glenohumeral joint throughout the range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed as a multi-functional rehabilitation system that can accommodate various joints (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle) and multiple exercise types (strengthening, range of motion, stabilization). The universal design includes interchangeable brace assemblies and adjustable components that serve multiple therapeutic purposes, resolving the contradiction between specialized stabilization and versatile adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rehabilitation machines are used, then some strengthening exercises are possible, but resisted scapular retraction, adduction, and rotation are not accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into modular segments including a base assembly, track system, tray assembly, and interchangeable brace assemblies. Each segment can be independently adjusted or reconfigured to accommodate different exercise types. The segmentation allows for resisted scapular retraction, adduction, and rotation exercises without requiring a completely different device for each exercise type.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable brace assembly that can be repositioned along the track provides dynamic adaptability for various exercise configurations. The height-adjustable base and rotatable tray assembly further enhance the dynamic capabilities, allowing the apparatus to accommodate diverse strengthening exercises including scapular movements and rotational exercises without excessive structural complexity.
3Productivity
If conventional devices are used, then basic rehabilitation exercises are possible, but optimal range of motion, strength building, and stability are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates multiple dynamic adjustment features including height-adjustable base, rotatable tray assembly, and movable brace assembly that can be easily repositioned along the track. These dynamic elements enable optimal range of motion and stabilization positions to be achieved with minimal effort, enhancing both rehabilitation effectiveness and ease of operation simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to be easily adjusted and reconfigured by the patient or therapist without requiring complex procedures or specialized tools. The self-service design includes intuitive adjustment mechanisms and interchangeable components that can be quickly changed to optimize rehabilitation effectiveness for different exercises and patient needs.
4Reliability
If conventional machines are used, then shoulder strengthening is possible, but proper stabilization of the humerus and shoulder blade is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed as a universal rehabilitation system that can accommodate multiple joints including shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. The interchangeable brace assemblies and adjustable track system provide proper stabilization for the humerus and shoulder blade during shoulder exercises while maintaining the capability to treat other joints, resolving the contradiction between specialized joint stabilization and versatile adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-position stabilizing and strengthening apparatus for use in exercising different target joints is provided. The apparatus includes: a height-adjustable base and a first assembly including a track mounted to a portion of the base defining a movement pattern. The apparatus also includes a second assembly slidably mounted to the track to permit motion of the second assembly relative to the first assembly according to the movement pattern along the track and a third assembly including a tray sized to receive a portion of a limb and/or joint of a patient. The third assembly is rotatably mounted to the second assembly to permit relative in-plane rotational motion of the third assembly relative to the second assembly. The apparatus also includes a brace assembly fixedly mounted to the tray to receive portions of the patient's joint and/or limb, thereby securing the patient's joint and/or limb to the third assembly.