Orthopedic Brace Measurement Using 2D Coordinate Extraction
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating digital representations of orthopedic devices, such as hand braces, often fail to accurately capture essential anatomical features and orthopedic parameters, leading to poorly fitting and uncomfortable custom-fitted orthopedic devices due to the lack of standardized measurement processes and geographical centralization, which complicates the fabrication and distribution of custom-fitted braces.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for creating orthopedic devices that utilize a standardized measurement process involving a schematic with arrays of coordinates and indicia, allowing for the creation of a custom-fit device that accounts for unique anatomical features and pathologies, using a monolithic structure formed from polymeric materials with integrated strap assemblies and fenestration regions for improved comfort and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photogrammetry or image correlation methods are used to create digital representations, then the representation accuracy may be improved, but the equipment cost and operational expertise requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified 2D photographic copy of the body part instead of complex 3D scanning systems. The method captures a photograph and processes it through software to extract measurement data, replacing expensive photogrammetry equipment with standard photography equipment and computational algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems (photogrammetry equipment, depth mapping devices) with an optical system (camera) combined with computational image processing. The mechanical complexity of specialized measurement equipment is substituted with software-based coordinate extraction from 2D images.
2Measurement precision
If elaborate digital representation methods are used, then the representation detail may be improved, but the time required for the process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-programming the software with anatomical knowledge and measurement protocols before the actual measurement process. The system automatically identifies anatomical landmarks and extracts coordinates based on pre-established criteria, eliminating the need for manual measurement planning during the actual process.
Solution Approach 2:
The software automatically processes the photograph to extract measurement data without requiring manual intervention for each measurement point. The system self-corrects and self-adjusts based on the image data, automatically identifying features and calculating coordinates, which reduces both time and expertise requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If custom-fitted braces are manufactured with precise anatomical matching, then the comfort and fit are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from creating complex 3D surface models to extracting and using simple 2D coordinate parameters from photographs. By representing the anatomical data as a set of x,y coordinates that define the contour, the manufacturing process becomes simpler while maintaining precision through accurate coordinate extraction and application to the brace pattern.
4Productivity
If standardized measurement processes are implemented, then the production efficiency is improved, but the adaptability to unique anatomical features may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic measurement system where the software adapts its analysis based on the specific features detected in each photograph. Rather than forcing all measurements into a rigid template, the system dynamically identifies anatomical landmarks and adjusts measurement points based on the unique characteristics of each patient's anatomy, maintaining both standardization and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic device comprises a body having a monolithic structure and arranged to form a closed circumference in a secured configuration, the body having a predetermined shape in an unsecured configuration. The body is formed continuously without interruption from at least one polymeric material. A method for making the orthopedic device includes providing a schematic including a model representing a body part for which the orthopedic device is intended, providing at least one array of coordinates and indicia corresponding to the coordinates proximate to the model at a plurality of locations along the model, and providing a scale set corresponding to the coordinates. The dimensions obtained from measuring the body part may be used to form a custom-shaped orthopedic device.