Orthotic Strap Guide Mechanism for Entanglement-Free Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Orthotic devices face issues with straps that dangle uncontrollably, leading to entanglement, interference with objects, and difficulty in application due to the free length of the strap when the fastening element is not attached.
Innovation Solution
The orthotic device design allows the strap to be moved into a second position, significantly reducing its free length by guiding it through a guide element or into a receiving device, and optionally using a tensioning or winding mechanism to ensure the strap remains controlled and accessible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the strap is made long enough to allow the fastening element to be attached to the corresponding counterpart, then the fastening function is improved, but the strap dangles uncontrollably and interferes with application and other objects
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is segmented into two distinct states: a first position where the strap extends fully for fastening operations, and a second position where the strap is retracted or gathered to minimize its free length. This segmentation allows the strap to fulfill both requirements - being long enough for attachment when needed, and short enough to avoid interference during application and use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the strap is made long enough to wrap around the wearer's torso, then the fastening function is improved, but the risk of entanglement and interaction with other objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strap incorporates a dynamic length adjustment mechanism that allows it to transition between a extended state for wrapping and fastening around the torso, and a retracted state where excess strap length is gathered or stored. This dynamic capability enables the strap to adapt its length based on operational requirements, providing full circumferential coverage when needed while minimizing entanglement risk during non-operational phases.
3Reliability
If the free length of the strap is reduced to prevent entanglement, then the safety is improved, but the fastening element cannot be attached to the corresponding counterpart
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is designed to be in the retracted second position during application, with the preliminary action of extending the strap to the first position performed immediately before fastening operations. This preliminary extension ensures sufficient free length is available for attaching the fastening element to the counterpart, while the strap remains in the safe, retracted position during other phases of use and application.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an orthopaedic device (1) having at least one shell element or rail element on at least one belt (4), which is guided by at least one guide element (8) and comprises a free end (6) having a fastening element (18) for fastening to a corresponding counter-element (20), wherein a free length (L) of the belt (4) extends from the free end (6) to the guide element (8), wherein the belt (4) can be brought into a first position and into a second position, wherein in the second position the free length (L) is not sufficient in order to fasten the fastening element (18) to the counter-element (20) in an attached state of the device, wherein the at least one guide element (8) is arranged on the shell element or rail element or on the belt (4) or is integrated therein.