Rotatable Inflation Valve for Independent Brace Cell Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic braces with inflatable components require external pumps for inflation and deflation, which can be bulky, inconvenient, and prone to loss, and lack the ability to independently control pressure in different areas.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an on-board pump and a rotatable control valve that allows users to selectively inflate or deflate individual cells within the brace, providing customizable compression without the need for external components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an external pump is connected to the brace, then the user can inflate and deflate the brace pads, but the pump becomes a bulky extra component that impairs the wearability of the brace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pump mechanism directly into the valve assembly, combining two previously separate components (pump and valve) into a single integrated unit. This merging eliminates the need for a separate external pump, reducing overall bulk while maintaining inflation functionality. The integrated design allows the pump to be housed within the brace structure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a control valve for regulating air flow and as a pump mechanism for inflation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing bulkiness while maintaining full inflation and deflation capability.
2Device complexity
If a single pump and valve are used, then the structure is simplified, but the user cannot independently control the pressures in different inflatable cells
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is segmented into multiple independent valve units, each controlling a specific inflatable cell. Each valve unit includes its own pump mechanism, allowing independent control of pressure in each cell. This segmentation enables customized compression in different areas while keeping each valve unit relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly incorporates movable components that allow dynamic control of fluid flow paths. The ability to selectively open or close specific valve ports enables independent pressure control in different cells while using a unified valve assembly structure, balancing simplicity with versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves with multiple pumps are provided, then independent control of individual cells is achieved, but the pumps are inconvenient to handle and can be easily lost if detached
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism is merged with the valve assembly, creating an integrated unit that cannot be easily separated. This combination ensures the pump remains attached to the brace, eliminating the risk of loss while maintaining independent control capability for each cell through the segmented valve design.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly serves as an intermediary structure that houses the pump mechanisms and provides a stable mounting point on the brace. This intermediary design allows the pumps to be securely attached while still enabling independent operation of each valve unit for individual cell control.
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
Enables users to adjust pressure levels in different areas of the brace easily and independently, reducing bulkiness and the risk of losing the pump, while maintaining a low profile and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
A first fluid path passing through the center of the control is created between the inlet port and a first of the outlet ports when the control is positioned in a first orientation, and a second fluid path passing through the center of the control is created between the inlet port and a second of the outlet ports when the control is positioned in a second orientation
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices are described for providing a fluid control for an inflation system. The control directs fluid flow from an inlet to one or more outlets of the control. The outlets are independently connected in fluid communication with the inlet by through the control. The control allows a user to create a fluid path between the inlet and a selected outlet by positioning the control in an orientation corresponding to the desired outlet. Each outlet is independently connected in fluid communication with the inlet in various orientations of the control.