Instep Weight Attachment with Offset Torque for Ankle Rehabilitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instep weighting devices for shoes are limited in their ability to provide specific and effective training and rehabilitation effects tailored to the biomechanical needs of users, particularly for conditions like pronation or supination of the ankle.
Innovation Solution
A device with a first coupling to attach to the central area of the instep and a second coupling offset from the longitudinal axis of the shoe, allowing a weight to exert a torque, positioned to one side of the instep for targeted muscle strengthening and rehabilitation exercises.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a weight is placed on the central area of the instep, then the device is stable and easy to attach, but it cannot provide targeted training for specific musculature or treat foot deviation problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the second coupling offset from the longitudinal axis of the shoe, creating an asymmetric weight distribution. This asymmetric placement allows the weight to exert a torque on the body about the longitudinal axis, enabling targeted training for specific musculature and treatment of foot deviation problems like pronation or supination, while maintaining a simple attachment system through the first coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a weight is placed to one side of the instep, then targeted muscle strengthening is achieved, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a first coupling for attaching the body to the instep, a second coupling for attaching the weight, and an offset configuration that creates torque. This segmentation allows the weight to be positioned to one side for targeted rehabilitation while keeping each component relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric offset positioning of the second coupling relative to the first coupling enables the weight to exert a torque about the longitudinal axis of the shoe. This asymmetric configuration provides targeted training effects for specific musculature and foot deviation treatment without requiring complex mechanical structures.
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
Enhances training and rehabilitation effectiveness by providing targeted muscle engagement, particularly for conditions such as pronation or supination of the ankle, through a device that attaches a weight offset from the shoe's longitudinal axis, enhancing user comfort and stability.
Implementation Method 1
when a weight is attached to the second coupling it exerts a torque on the body about the longitudinal axis of the shoe
Implementation Method 2
a weight to exert a torque, positioned to one side of the instep for targeted muscle strengthening
Data Source
AI summary
A device for attaching a weight on the instep of a shoe comprising a body having:a first coupling to releasably fasten the body to a central area of the instep of a shoe, such that when the device is in use a part of the body overlaps the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe, anda second coupling to fasten a weight to the body;the second coupling being offset from the first coupling such that, when the device is in use, the second coupling is offset from the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe, and when a weight is attached to the second coupling it exerts a torque on the body about the longitudinal axis (L) of the shoe.