Orthopedic Strap System with Length Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing orthopedic devices, such as knee braces, are often uncomfortable, bulky, difficult to adjust, and lack durability, which can lead to user discomfort and ineffective treatment of conditions like osteoarthritis and meniscal tears.

Innovation Solution

The development of a streamlined orthopedic device with a lightweight, easy-to-adjust frame and an innovative strap system that includes adjustable straps with a length adjustment system, allowing for quick attachment and removal, enhanced durability, and improved comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional orthopedic devices are used to provide stability and support, then the therapeutic function is achieved, but the devices become bulky, heavy, and uncomfortable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability and supportVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs thin, flexible strap materials that can be molded into specific shapes to provide structural support without adding significant weight. These flexible elements replace traditional bulky rigid components while maintaining the necessary stability and support functions for orthopedic applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Strength

If traditional orthopedic devices are designed for durability, then the device strength is improved, but the devices become difficult to adjust and tedious to use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice durabilityVSAvoidadjustment ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the device to transition between different states of rigidity and flexibility. The straps can be easily adjusted to different lengths and tensions, and the device can be quickly donned and doffed, while maintaining durability through robust material selection and construction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional orthopedic devices are made with complex manufacturing processes, then the device functionality is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the orthopedic device into separate modular components including individual straps, buckles, and padding elements. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes, then assembled into the complete functional device, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3731788B1Orthopedic device, strap system and method for securing the same

Publication Date: 2025.01.22 OSSUR ICELAND EHF

Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B

AI summary

A strap system having an adjustable length comprises a strap (374) having a first, predetermined length, and defining first and second ends (375, 376); a length adjustment system (373) connected to the first end (375) of the strap (374), and including a belt segment (372) having a first end removably secured to the first end (375) of the strap. The belt segment (372) defines at least one opening (380) at a second end thereof. A first bracket (368) is selectively engageable with the at least one opening (380) of the belt segment (372). The strap (374) is reducible in length from the first end (375) to define a second length shorter than the first, predetermined length. A method is provided using the strap system to reduce a length of the strap (374).