Segmented Shoulder Stabilizer with Breathable Axillary Joint

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shoulder supports are often rigid, restrictive, and uncomfortable, limiting movement and causing heat due to lack of breathability, making them unsuitable for athletes who need to maintain mobility during activities while stabilizing their shoulder.

Innovation Solution

A shoulder stabilization apparatus with a torso portion, arm sleeve, and adjustable straps made from a combination of inelastic and elastic materials, allowing for customizable fit and motion restriction to prevent injury, while maintaining flexibility and breathability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing shoulder supports are made rigid to stabilize the shoulder, then shoulder stability is improved, but movement flexibility and wearer comfort deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshoulder stabilityVSAvoidmovement flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shoulder support is divided into multiple segments including a torso portion, arm sleeve, and axillary segment that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the support to provide stabilization while permitting necessary range of motion for athletic activities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support incorporates dynamic elements that adapt to movement. The axillary segment connects the torso and arm portions with controlled articulation, allowing the device to transition from a rigid stabilizing structure to a more flexible configuration during arm elevation and athletic motion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If existing shoulder supports are made bulky to provide adequate support, then shoulder stabilization is improved, but wearer comfort and breathability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshoulder stabilizationVSAvoidwearer comfort and breathability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The shoulder support utilizes thin, flexible fabric shells instead of bulky rigid structures. The torso portion, arm sleeve, and axillary segment are constructed from breathable materials that conform to the body while providing necessary stabilization, eliminating the need for thick padding or rigid components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If existing shoulder supports are designed with complex fastening systems to ensure proper fit, then shoulder stabilization is improved, but ease of application deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshoulder stabilizationVSAvoidease of application

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shoulder support is designed for self-application by the wearer. The torso portion with opening, arm sleeve, and integrated axillary segment can be donned independently without requiring assistance from another person, while still providing reliable shoulder stabilization through proper anatomical positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11058569B2Shoulder stabilization apparatus and methods

Publication Date: 2021.07.13 TOP SHELF MFG

AI summary

Various apparatus, e.g., braces or supports, and methods for stabilizing a shoulder and/or arm of a subject are provided herein. In certain variations, a shoulder stabilization apparatus includes one or more inelastic, non-stretchable and/or rigid components which restrict or limit various types of shoulder and/or arm motion, e.g., abduction. The shoulder stabilization apparatus may include various accessory straps which restrict or limit various types of shoulder and/or arm motion.