Pivoting Snap-Fit Ankle Brace Shell for Anatomical Conformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ankle braces lack the ability to comfortably and securely conform to the user's anatomy due to rigid snap-fit connections, limiting their adaptability during different stages of ankle treatment and athletic activities.
Innovation Solution
The ankle brace incorporates pivoting snap-fit connections between the upper extension shell and the medial shell, allowing for a range of motion that replicates foot motion during walking while providing support, and can be converted to a less restrictive configuration by removing the upper extension shell once the ankle has improved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid snap-fit connection is used to secure the upper extension shell to the medial shell, then the brace provides increased support and stability, but it cannot comfortably conform to the user's anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection is designed to allow pivoting motion between the upper extension shell and medial shell, transforming the rigid static connection into a dynamic adjustable connection that can adapt to anatomical variations while maintaining secure attachment
2Reliability
If a rigid snap-fit connection is used to secure the upper extension shell, then the brace provides substantial support for acute injury treatment, but it limits adaptability during different stages of treatment and athletic activities
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting capability of the snap-fit connection enables the brace to adapt between different treatment stages by allowing adjustable positioning of the upper extension shell, providing substantial support when needed and flexibility during recovery and athletic activities
3Stability of the object's composition
If a static snap-fit connection is used, then the upper extension shell is securely fixed to the medial shell, but the brace cannot replicate foot motion during walking activities
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection incorporates pivoting motion that allows the upper extension shell to move relative to the medial shell, enabling replication of natural foot motion during walking while maintaining secure attachment through the snap-fit mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An ankle brace includes an upper extension shell pivotably connected to and projecting upwardly from the medial shell along left and right lateral was by first and second snap-together pivot means.