Segmented Lumbar Brace with Flexible Joints for Custom Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lumbar supports fail to conform to diverse body shapes and sizes, requiring assistance for proper fitting and lacking flexibility to accommodate individual spinal curvatures.
Innovation Solution
A lumbar support with flexible joints and mechanically advantaged systems, including pulleys and levers, that allow the upper and lower sections to move anteriorly and hug the lumbar region, combined with optional extenders and rigid lateral supports for customizable fit and reinforcement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid lumbar support is used, then stability and support are improved, but the ability to conform to different body shapes and sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lumbar support is divided into multiple adjustable segments or sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the rigid support structure to be configured in different arrangements to accommodate various lumbar curves and body shapes while maintaining stability through each segment's rigid construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The lumbar support incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow users to modify the position, angle, and configuration of support components. This dynamic adjustability enables the same rigid support structure to adapt to different body shapes, sizes, and spinal curvatures while preserving structural stability.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed lumbar support structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the ease of operation for self-adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates mechanical adjustment mechanisms such as movable pads, adjustable straps, and reconfigurable components that enable users to easily modify the fit and positioning. These dynamic elements are integrated into a relatively simple overall structure that maintains ease of manufacture while providing comprehensive self-adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The lumbar support is designed with user-friendly adjustment mechanisms that allow individuals to independently configure the device to their specific needs without requiring assistance. Features include easily adjustable straps, movable support pads, and intuitive configuration options that empower users to perform their own fitting and adjustments.
3Device complexity
If a one-size-fits-all lumbar support is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to individual spinal curvatures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lumbar support is designed as a universal device with multiple adjustment options and reconfigurable components that can accommodate a wide range of body types, sizes, and spinal curvatures. Through features like adjustable pad positions, configurable strap lengths, and flexible support angles, a single device design provides customized fit capability across diverse user populations without requiring multiple specialized models.
Data Source
AI summary
A back brace is designed to custom fit a wearer in a multitude of different configurations. First, the back brace could have a lumbar support that is split into upper and lower sections that are connected to a flexible joint, allowing the lumbar support to bend towards the spine of the user. The lumbar support is also generally split into left and right sections that are drawn towards one another while the joint bends towards the lumbar curve. This allows the back brace to conform to the lumbar curve of the wearer as a custom fit. Second, the brace could have optional extenders that alter the support length, width, and height of lumbar and lateral supports about the wearer. Third, the brace could have reinforcement support mechanisms that alter the rigidity of various lumbar and lateral supports about the wearer.