Dual-Adjustable Orthotic Device Torque and Angle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clubfoot treatment devices require frequent adjustments and replacement of tensioning mechanisms as patients grow and develop, necessitating multiple devices or full disassembly for adjustments in torque and angle settings.
Innovation Solution
A dual-adjustable orthotic device featuring intermeshing toothed elements and a torsion spring system allows independent adjustment of torque and rotational angle without disassembly, enabling adaptable treatment without replacing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed tensioning mechanism is used in the orthotic device, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot accommodate patient growth and development over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability through a ratchet mechanism that allows the torque bar tension to be modified over time. The ratchet mechanism enables unidirectional adjustment of the tensioning force, permitting the device to adapt to patient growth while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic feature resolves the contradiction by allowing the device to evolve with the patient without requiring complete replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthotic device is divided into separable components including the torque bar, ratchet mechanism, and footwear attachments. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the tensioning mechanism while keeping other components intact. The modular design enables localized modifications to accommodate growth without increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices with different tensionings are stocked to accommodate growth, then the adaptability is improved, but the cost and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism provides multi-functionality by enabling a single device to deliver multiple torque levels. The mechanism allows continuous adjustment of tension throughout the operational range, making one device equivalent to multiple fixed-tension devices. This eliminates the need to stock multiple devices while maintaining the ability to accommodate various growth stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the torque parameter dynamically through the ratchet mechanism, which allows adjustment of the tensioning force to different levels. This parameter variability within a single device replaces the need for multiple devices with fixed parameters, reducing both quantity and storage requirements while maintaining adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If the entire device is disassembled to replace the tensioning mechanism, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the time and complexity of adjustment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is extracted as a separate, independently adjustable component from the rest of the orthotic device. This extraction allows the tensioning mechanism to be adjusted without disassembling the entire device, including the footwear and other structural elements. The isolated ratchet mechanism can be modified in place, significantly reducing adjustment time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides dynamic adjustment capability that allows real-time modification of torque settings without complete disassembly. The mechanism can be adjusted progressively as needed, enabling precise torque control while minimizing the time required for modifications compared to full device replacement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the bar length is fixed, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the device cannot accommodate changes in patient size
Solution Approach 1:
The torque bar is segmented into adjustable sections that can be modified in length independently of other device components. This segmentation allows the bar length to be adapted to patient growth while keeping the manufacturing of individual segments relatively simple. The modular bar structure reduces overall manufacturing complexity compared to creating a single adjustable-length component.
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
Facilitates continuous and precise adjustment of torque and angle settings over time, accommodating growth and muscle development without the need for multiple devices or disassembly, ensuring effective clubfoot correction.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion spring disposed within the housing assembly and applying the amount of torque
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-adjustable orthotic device to treat clubfoot and methods for using same. The device comprises a pair of paddles, adapted to attach footwear, attached at opposing ends of an adjustable torque bar the device has independent configuration systems to adjust the angle at which the paddles are oriented to the bar, and to adjust the torque loading applied to the paddles. These systems facilitate the independent adjustment of the device settings without changing the tensioning mechanism, stocking multiple devices, or having to disassemble and reassemble the tensioning structures.