Segmented Strap System for Orthopedic Brace Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Orthopedic braces require frequent readjustment of straps to achieve a close fit, which is time-consuming and less repeatable with each removal and remounting, making it difficult to maintain a consistent fit during physical activity and inactivity.
Innovation Solution
The method involves a segmented strap system with adjustable and fixable connections to longitudinal brace assemblies, allowing for easy repositioning and maintaining desired strap lengths, enabling a consistent fit without altering the strap lengths upon removal and remounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the straps are tightened to achieve a close fit, then the fit quality is improved, but the time required for readjustment increases with each removal and remounting
Solution Approach 1:
The strap is divided into multiple segments with adjustment mechanisms at each segment. This allows the strap to be adjusted in discrete increments, enabling precise fit customization while reducing the overall time required for readjustment compared to continuous adjustment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap adjustment mechanisms are pre-configured with multiple fixed length positions before the brace is applied to the body. Users can quickly select and engage the desired pre-set length without performing complex adjustment operations during the application process, thereby reducing readjustment time while maintaining fit precision.
2Ease of operation
If the straps are made adjustable to allow removal and remounting, then the ease of operation is improved, but the consistency of fit deteriorates with repeated adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is segmented into discrete adjustable sections with fixed length positions. Each segment can be independently adjusted and locked at specific lengths, ensuring that the same fit configuration can be reliably reproduced across multiple removal and remounting cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap adjustment mechanism provides discrete parameter changes at fixed length positions rather than continuous adjustment. This quantization of adjustment parameters ensures that the same settings can be consistently achieved and maintained across repeated applications, improving fit reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the strap length is changed to accommodate different body dimensions, then the adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the adjustment mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strap is divided into multiple segments, each with its own simple adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high adaptability across different body dimensions while keeping each individual adjustment mechanism relatively simple and easy to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented strap adjustment mechanism serves multiple functions: it accommodates various body dimensions, allows for precise fit customization, and provides easy operation. By integrating these functions into a unified segmented system, the patent achieves high versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for securely fitting an orthopedic brace to the body by means of a plurality of straps, strap locks, strap attachment members, and strap connection members. The method retains the close fit of the brace to the body without the need for substantial readjustment of the fit even after repeated removal and remounting of the brace on the body. The method also enables repositioning the brace on the body without requiring removal of the brace from the body or substantial readjustment of the fit.