Orthopedic Brace With Thermoelectric Cooling And Phase-Change Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic braces and treatments for joint diseases like osteoarthritis lack effective methods for providing rapid and controlled thermal therapy, which is essential for pain relief and joint stabilization.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic brace equipped with a thermoelectric cooler system that uses a thermoelectric cooler with a heat transferring medium, allowing for controlled temperature changes to be applied to the joint, either heating or cooling, and featuring a semi-solid heat transferring medium that hardens upon cooling to stabilize the joint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional heating or cooling methods are used for joint treatment, then thermal therapy is provided, but the thermal therapy is not rapid or sufficiently controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thermoelectric coolers (TECs) that utilize the Peltier effect to rapidly change temperature parameters by applying electrical current. The TECs can quickly switch between heating and cooling modes by reversing current direction, providing rapid and controlled thermal therapy without complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces conventional mechanical heating/cooling systems with solid-state thermoelectric devices. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical compressors, heat exchangers, and fluid circulation systems, achieving rapid thermal control with simpler electronics while maintaining precise temperature management.
2Temperature
If a thermoelectric cooler is used to provide rapid thermal therapy, then temperature control is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric coolers serve multiple functions: they provide both heating and cooling capabilities through reversible current direction, and they offer precise temperature control. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate heating elements and cooling systems into a single device, reducing overall structural complexity despite the advanced temperature control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a phase-change material (paraffin wax) in thermal contact with the TECs. The phase transition of this material absorbs and releases thermal energy efficiently, enhancing temperature control while simplifying the thermal management system by eliminating the need for complex thermal regulation mechanisms.
3Temperature
If the heat transferring medium remains liquid at all temperatures, then thermal transfer is efficient, but the joint cannot be stabilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a phase-change material (paraffin wax) that transitions from liquid to solid at a specific temperature range. When the TECs cool the material below its melting point, it solidifies and provides mechanical stabilization to the joint. When heated above the melting point, it returns to liquid state for efficient thermal transfer. This phase transition enables both functions to be achieved by the same material.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal transfer medium is formulated as a composite containing paraffin wax combined with other materials to optimize both thermal conductivity and phase change properties. This composite structure maintains liquid state for efficient heat transfer during warming phases, then transitions to a stable solid structure for joint immobilization during cooling phases.
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 brace provides rapid and controlled thermal therapy, effectively reducing pain and stabilizing the joint, thereby improving mobility and alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Implementation Method 1
at least one substantially flat thermoelectric cooler (TEC) disposed at least partially within the housing... upon application of electrical current to the thermoelectric cooler, the temperature of the external TEC face is being either elevated or lowered and the temperature of the internal TEC face is being either lowered or elevated in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 2
at least one heat transferring medium coupled to the thermoelectric cooler and comprising a first thermally conductive material... configured to conduct heat between the subject's body and the thermoelectric cooler
Implementation Method 3
featuring a semi-solid heat transferring medium that hardens upon cooling to stabilize the joint
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The present invention relates to an orthopedic brace including therein a thermal treatment system useful for treating joint injuries and musculoskeletal disorders, such as osteoarthritis.