Single-Upright Knee Brace With Non-Crossing Straps and Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current osteoarthritis braces are difficult to assemble, wear correctly, and adjust, with multiple straps that cross one another and cumbersome tensioning mechanisms, failing to effectively alleviate knee pain and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A single upright assembly brace with non-crossing straps and adjustable tensioning mechanisms, featuring a magnetic coupler and telescopic design, providing customizable fit and support for osteoarthritis treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple straps are used to provide comprehensive support, then the brace can effectively redistribute load, but the straps cross one another making assembly and wear difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The strap system is divided into separate non-crossing straps for each compartment (medial and lateral), with each strap independently routed around the knee joint. This segmentation eliminates the crossing issue while maintaining comprehensive support through dedicated straps for each functional zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex crossing strap configuration is extracted and replaced with a simplified single-upright design where straps are routed independently. The essential load redistribution function is maintained while the problematic crossing geometry is removed from the system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tensioning mechanisms are used to adjust each strap, then customizable fit is achieved, but the mechanisms become cumbersome and difficult to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tensioning functions are merged into a single integrated tensioning mechanism that can adjust all straps simultaneously. This unified approach maintains customizable fit through adjustable tension while eliminating the need for multiple separate cumbersome mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The single upright assembly serves multiple functions: structural support, strap routing, tensioning, and alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity while preserving the ability to achieve customizable fit through the integrated design.
3Ease of operation
If a single upright assembly is used to simplify the brace, then assembly and wear become easier, but the ability to redistribute load may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The single upright assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones with dedicated straps for medial and lateral compartments. This segmentation allows the simplified structure to effectively redistribute load by providing targeted support in each compartment without requiring a complex multi-upright design.
Solution Approach 2:
The single upright assembly acts as an intermediary structure that routes and tensions straps to create the necessary load redistribution forces. This intermediary design achieves effective load redistribution through strategic strap routing and tension application rather than through complex multi-component structures.
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
The brace effectively redistributes load away from affected knee compartments, reducing pain and discomfort by aligning the joint, with easy assembly and adjustment, enhancing user comfort and efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The upright assembly may be magnetically coupleable to itself, thereby allowing the upright assembly to be easily assembled and disassembled
Data Source
AI summary
A brace is provided, including a single upright assembly. The assembly includes an upper rigid support, lower rigid support, a hinge coupling the upper rigid support to the lower rigid support, an upper cuff coupled to the upper rigid support, and a lower cuff coupled to the lower rigid support. The brace includes a plurality of upper straps configured for coupling to the upper cuff such that the plurality of upper straps do not cross when the brace is properly attached to the subject. The brace includes a plurality of lower straps configured for coupling to the lower cuff such that the plurality of lower straps do not cross when the brace is properly attached to the subject. The brace includes a tensioning mechanism configured to adjust a tension in at least one of the plurality of upper and lower straps. Other braces and related methods are also provided.