Neck Pain Relief Device Using Type I Lever Mechanics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Neck pain is a common issue affecting millions, causing discomfort and limiting daily activities, with existing solutions failing to provide effective relief, especially in providing ambulatory support for chronic or acute neck pain.

Innovation Solution

A neck pain relieving device comprising a rod with a head support component and a chest pivot component, functioning as a type I lever, which distributes the weight of the head, relieving pressure from the cervical spine and muscles, and can be used ambulatorily.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing neck pain relief solutions are used, then some degree of pain relief may be achieved, but they fail to provide effective ambulatory support

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneck pain relief effectivenessVSAvoidambulatory support capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The neck support device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides neck support relief while enabling ambulatory activities. The device can be used during walking, climbing, and other mobile activities, combining therapeutic support with functional mobility in a single system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates dynamic elements including a telescoping rod that allows length adjustment, and a pivot component that enables adaptive positioning. These dynamic features allow the device to adjust to different user positions and activities, maintaining effectiveness whether stationary or mobile.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If a rigid head support structure is used, then structural strength is improved, but comfort and adaptability to different head shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehead support structural strengthVSAvoidcomfort and adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device merges a rigid telescoping rod structure with a soft cushioning element. The rigid rod provides structural strength and adjustability, while the soft cushioning element conforming to the head shape provides comfort and adaptability. These contrasting elements work together to resolve the contradiction between strength and comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Different parts of the device have different mechanical properties: the rod element is rigid and adjustable for structural support, while the cushioning element is soft and conforming for comfort. Each component is optimized for its specific function, with the rigid portion providing strength and the soft portion providing adaptability to head shape.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Stability of the object's composition

If the device is designed for stationary use only, then structural stability is improved, but mobility and usability in various settings deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmobility and usability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions from a static to a dynamic design with a telescoping rod that can extend and retract, and a pivot component that allows angular adjustment. These dynamic features enable the device to maintain structural stability when needed while facilitating mobility and adaptability to different usage settings including ambulatory activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to function effectively in multiple settings and activities, from stationary neck support to mobile use during walking and climbing. The multi-functional design allows it to adapt to different stability requirements based on the activity level and user needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 device provides effective relief from neck pain by supporting the head and distributing the weight, allowing users to regain a comfortable life, usable in various settings, including public areas and during activities like walking or climbing.

Implementation Method 1

The neck pain relieving device can work as a type I lever. Effort can be applied at the first end of the rod by a user. The chest pivot component can be a fulcrum. The head support component can push against the back of the head, exerting a larger force over a small distance than the force exerted at the first end of the rod.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever: Lever

Implementation Method 2

The head support component can push against the back of the head, exerting a larger force over a small distance than the force exerted at the first end of the rod.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS9408740B2Neck pain relieving devices
Publication Date: 2016.08.09 MAYO FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION & RESEARCH
  • US9408740B2 patent drawing
  • US9408740B2 patent drawing
  • US9408740B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This document provides methods and materials related to relieving neck pain. For example, neck pain relieving devices as well as methods for making and using neck pain relieving devices to provide relief from chronic or acute neck pain by providing support to the back of the head are provided.