Multi-Layered Shoulder Orthosis with Adjustable Straps

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shoulder stabilizing devices often restrict the range of motion, making it difficult for athletes to continue playing sports safely after shoulder dislocation injuries until corrective surgery can be performed.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layered orthosis comprising a base harness with adjustable straps and an A/P strap, made of elastic material, that provides stability while allowing nearly full range of motion by securing the shoulder joint with hook-and-loop fasteners and strategically positioned anchor points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If existing shoulder stabilizing devices are used to stabilize the shoulder joint, then joint stability is improved, but range of motion is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshoulder joint stabilityVSAvoidrange of motion
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The orthosis is divided into multiple independent components including a base harness, anterior and posterior panels, multiple straps (anterior strap, posterior strap, A/P strap), and fastening devices. Each component can be independently adjusted and positioned to provide stability while allowing necessary movement for athletic activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The orthosis employs dynamic adjustment capabilities through multiple hook-and-loop fastener positions on the panels and straps, allowing the degree of stabilization and range of motion to be customized and modified based on the athlete's specific needs and activity requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid orthotic structure is used to stabilize the shoulder, then joint stability is improved, but comfort and adaptability to anatomical variations deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshoulder joint stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to anatomical variations
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Different portions of the orthosis have different properties - the base harness provides foundational support, while the adjustable panels and straps provide localized stabilization at specific anatomical points. The hook-and-loop fasteners allow positioning at multiple locations to accommodate variations in shoulder anatomy and injury patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The orthosis allows for parameter adjustments including strap tension, panel positioning, and fastener location to be changed based on the patient's anatomical variations, comfort requirements, and specific injury characteristics, transforming a fixed device into an adaptable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If multiple straps and panels are used to provide comprehensive stabilization, then shoulder stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshoulder joint stabilityVSAvoidorthosis structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional components (base harness, panels, straps, and fastening mechanisms) are merged into a single integrated orthotic system that works together to provide comprehensive shoulder stabilization while maintaining a cohesive and manageable structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of operation

If the orthosis is designed to allow full range of motion, then ease of operation is improved, but joint stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of motionVSAvoidshoulder joint stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The orthosis employs dynamic adjustment capabilities through multiple hook-and-loop fastener positions on the panels and straps, allowing the degree of stabilization and range of motion to be customized and modified based on the athlete's specific needs and activity requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 athletes to maintain stability and mobility, allowing them to continue playing sports safely until surgery, while accommodating anatomical variations and perspiration, and can be worn under conventional clothing.

Implementation Method 1

The present invention comprises a multi-layered orthosis designed to stabilize the human shoulder joint... made of elastic material, that provides stability while allowing nearly full range of motion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The components are preferably equipped with convenient fastening devices, such as hook and loop fasteners

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS8287478B2Shoulder stabilizing orthotic
Publication Date: 2012.10.16 OSTERGARD DOAK
  • US8287478B2 patent drawing
  • US8287478B2 patent drawing
  • US8287478B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-layered orthosis designed to stabilize the human shoulder joint. A base harness includes a shoulder enclosure, an anterior panel, and a posterior panel. An adjustable break separates free ends of the anterior and posterior panels which are distal to the shoulder enclosure. The base harness is applied to a patient by slipping the shoulder enclosure around the affected shoulder. Anterior and posterior straps are passed over the deltoid region of the affected shoulder and secured to the base harness. An additional large strap is placed over the anterior and posterior straps.