Shapable Posture Training Device with Pliable Chassis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing posture training methods require a physical therapist, are inconvenient for individuals with limited flexibility or balance, and are not suitable for self-directed practice or use with poor posture, as they rely on a wooden dowel that may not contact all necessary spinal regions simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free, adjustable posture training device with a pliable chassis and removable rods that can be shaped to fit various body shapes, allowing independent posture correction and use during daily activities, incorporating tactile feedback for maintaining a neutral spine position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a wooden dowel is used for posture training, then tactile feedback for neutral spine alignment is provided, but the method requires a physical therapist to observe and provide cues, preventing independent practice
Solution Approach 1:
The posture training device enables self-service by incorporating built-in tactile feedback mechanisms (rods contacting head, thoracic, and sacral regions) that automatically guide users to neutral spine alignment without requiring external therapist observation or verbal cues, allowing independent practice at home or in lieu of therapy sessions
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides continuous tactile feedback through contact rods that physically indicate when the user's head, thoracic, and sacral regions are properly aligned, enabling self-correction and independent posture training without therapist intervention
2Measurement precision
If a wooden dowel is held against the back for posture training, then spinal alignment can be assessed, but individuals with limited flexibility or balance find it challenging to maintain contact at all three regions
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs flexible or adjustable rods that can adapt to various body shapes and positions, allowing users with limited flexibility or balance to maintain contact at all three spinal regions more easily while still receiving accurate alignment feedback
3Measurement precision
If a long wooden dowel is used for posture training, then three regions along the rear body can be contacted, but the device is inconvenient to store and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The posture training device is divided into separate components (individual rods for head, thoracic, and sacral contact) that can be assembled when needed and disassembled or collapsed for compact storage and transport, eliminating the inconvenience of carrying a long rigid dowel
4Measurement precision
If the wooden dowel method is used, then posture correction is effective for individuals with relatively good posture, but it fails for individuals with poor posture since the dowel cannot simultaneously contact all three regions
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses flexible or adjustable rods that can adapt to different posture conditions, allowing the three contact points (head, thoracic, sacral regions) to simultaneously contact users with various degrees of postural deviation, not just those with relatively good posture
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows adjustment of rod positions, angles, or lengths to accommodate different body types and posture conditions, enabling effective treatment for individuals with poor posture by modifying the geometric parameters of the contact points
Data Source
AI summary
A shapable posture training device is disclosed herein. The posture training device can be shaped by hand to fit a wide variety of body shapes and postures and may address a variety of posture conditions. A shapable posture training device may include a pliable chassis configured to be worn against a thoracic spine region. The pliable chassis may include a shapable member that can be bent and shaped by hand. The pliable chassis may include a first rod receiver disposed in the pliable chassis and a second rod receiver disposed in the pliable chassis. The shapable member may extend from the first rod receiver to the second rod receiver. The shapable member may be bendable to alter alignment of a first centerline of a first bore of the first rod receiver and a second centerline of a second bore of the second rod receiver.