Portable Neck Strength Testing Device with Self-Stabilizing Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neck strength measurement devices are cumbersome and difficult to use, often requiring external attachments or practitioner stabilization, limiting accessibility and accuracy in measuring neck flexion strength, especially in youth sports where concussions are a concern.
Innovation Solution
A portable neck strength testing device with a support member, measurement unit, and adjustable head mount that detects force and torque, allowing for secure and stable measurements without external attachments or operator stabilization, enabling measurements in various directions and remote locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stationary devices are used to measure neck flexion force, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and accessibility deteriorate due to cumbersome structure and requirement for external attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components: a support member with front legs and back plate for body attachment, a separate measurement unit with force transducer, and a head mount assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement unit is extracted as a separate, self-contained component that can be attached to the support member. This extraction eliminates the need for complex external attachments and allows the measurement function to be performed by a simplified, portable unit.
2Ease of operation
If hand-held dynamometer force meters are used, then portability is improved, but measurement reliability deteriorates due to practitioner stabilization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed to be self-stabilizing through its configuration of front legs and back plate that distribute weight and provide structural support. The device stabilizes itself on the subject's body without requiring external support or practitioner intervention, combining portability with measurement reliability.
3Measurement precision
If stationary devices are used for testing, then measurement accuracy is improved, but accessibility deteriorates as subjects must travel to testing laboratories
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple functions into a single portable unit: the support member provides body attachment, the measurement unit performs force measurement, and the head mount enables various testing configurations. This multi-functionality allows accurate neck strength testing to be performed in diverse locations including sports fields, clinics, and training facilities.
4Ease of operation
If hand-held devices are used, then portability is improved, but measurement capability deteriorates as they cannot provide stabilization of body parts during testing
Solution Approach 1:
The support member extends across multiple dimensions of the subject's body with front legs positioned on the chest and a back plate on the back, creating a stable three-dimensional framework. This spatial configuration provides stabilization of body parts during testing while maintaining device portability.
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
The device provides efficient and accurate measurements of neck flexion strength and rotational torque, improving accessibility and reducing the risk of concussions by allowing for quick and easy testing in various settings, including sports environments.
Implementation Method 1
The measurement unit may comprise a force transducer, and the head mount may be adjustably connected to the force transducer for detecting and measuring a force exerted on the head mount.
Implementation Method 2
the measurement unit is configured to detect displacement of the head mount and measure therefrom at least a force or a torque exerted on the head mount
Data Source
AI summary
A portable neck strength testing device includes a support member securable to the body of a subject, a measurement unit coupled to the support member and a head mount adjustably connected to the measurement unit. The head mount includes a first portion configured to engage the head of the subject and the head mount is displaceable in response to motion of the first portion. The measurement unit is configured to detect displacement of the head mount and measure therefrom at least a force or a torque exerted on the head mount.