Orthosis Dynamic Force Mechanisms for Joint Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthotic devices for increasing joint range of motion often rely on static or progressive stretch techniques, which may not effectively address the limitations in joint mobility caused by scar tissue, muscle contracture, or tissue adhesions post-injury or surgery, as they lack dynamic and adaptive force mechanisms to continuously apply stress and promote tissue elongation.
Innovation Solution
The orthosis employs first and second dynamic force mechanisms with actuator and linkage mechanisms to apply a dynamic stretch to body portions on opposite sides of a joint, utilizing a combination of dynamic and static-progressive stretch principles, incorporating torsion springs and slider-crank mechanisms to continuously apply force and promote joint mobility in both flexion and extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static or progressive stretch techniques are used, then the orthosis structure is simple, but the effectiveness in addressing joint mobility limitations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing static stretch mechanisms with dynamic force mechanisms that can adaptively adjust forces in real-time. The dynamic force mechanisms include springs and dampers that automatically regulate force application based on tissue response, enabling the orthosis to effectively address joint mobility limitations while maintaining appropriate complexity levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis employs self-service principles through automatic force regulation mechanisms. The dynamic force mechanisms self-adjust based on tissue response without requiring external control systems, allowing the device to effectively manage joint mobility issues through autonomous force application and modulation.
2Productivity
If dynamic force mechanisms are introduced to continuously apply stress, then tissue elongation is promoted, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action through dynamic force mechanisms that continuously apply stress to the joint tissues. The mechanisms maintain constant force application during the stretching process, ensuring uninterrupted promotion of tissue elongation and maximizing productivity without requiring complex intermittent control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting force magnitude and duration based on tissue response. The spring and damper components automatically modulate force parameters in real-time, optimizing tissue elongation promotion while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through passive parameter adjustment rather than active control.
3Reliability
If principles of creep are leveraged to maintain tissue elongation, then rehabilitation outcomes improve, but the device requires continuous force application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through cyclic stretching protocols that leverage creep principles. The dynamic force mechanisms deliver repeated stretching cycles with appropriate rest intervals, maintaining tissue elongation promotion over time while allowing the tissues to recover. This periodic approach improves rehabilitation outcomes without requiring indefinitely continuous force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthosis employs preliminary action by pre-positioning the joint in extended configurations before full stretching is achieved. The dynamic force mechanisms gradually apply stress in staged manner, preparing the tissues for progressive elongation. This preliminary positioning action enhances rehabilitation effectiveness while managing the duration of continuous force application through staged progression.
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
This approach enhances joint range of motion by continuously stretching joint tissues using dynamic force mechanisms, leveraging principles of creep to maintain tissue elongation over time, thereby improving rehabilitation outcomes and preventing tissue relaxation.
Implementation Method 1
The orthosis may include first and second dynamic force mechanisms... incorporating torsion springs and slider-crank mechanisms to continuously apply force
Implementation Method 2
leveraging principles of creep to maintain tissue elongation over time, thereby improving rehabilitation outcomes and preventing tissue relaxation
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, an orthosis for increasing range of motion of a body joint generally includes first and second dynamic force mechanisms for simultaneously applying a dynamic force to body portions on opposite sides of a body joint.