Spinal Assessment Device Using Segmented Horizontal Pieces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for assessing the spinal column are either invasive or inadequate for analyzing lateral curvatures and deviations in a standing position, lacking a non-invasive method that can accurately reproduce the position of each vertebra from the first cervical to the first sacral vertebra.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive device comprising a vertical piece with horizontal pieces that contact spinal crests, using a ratchet and pinion mechanism to assess spinal curvatures and deviations, allowing for accurate reproduction of vertebra positions from the first cervical to the first sacral vertebra, with a support base for patient positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If x-ray is used to assess the spinal column, then measurement precision is improved, but the method becomes invasive and cannot assess the spinal column in a standing position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical replica of the spinal column using a flexible ruler that is molded to the patient's spine. This copy captures the spinal curvatures and vertebra positions without requiring invasive procedures like x-ray, allowing assessment in a standing position while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible ruler acts as an intermediary between the patient's spine and the assessment process. It transfers the spinal column's shape and position information to a measurable format without direct invasive contact, enabling non-invasive measurement of spinal parameters
2Object-affected harmful factors
If flexible ruler is used to assess spinal curvatures, then non-invasive assessment in standing position is achieved, but the ability to reproduce the position of each vertebra is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The assessment device is divided into multiple horizontal pieces, each corresponding to a specific vertebra level. This segmentation allows individual vertebra positions to be identified and reproduced separately, transforming a general curvature measurement tool into a detailed vertebral assessment system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds vertical dimensionality to the assessment by introducing horizontal pieces at different height levels corresponding to each vertebra. This multi-level horizontal segmentation enables precise reproduction of each vertebra's position in three-dimensional space, overcoming the limitation of simple flexible ruler tracing
3Object-affected harmful factors
If Metrecom Skeletal Analysis System is used, then non-invasive scanning is performed, but the device complexity increases and requires electromechanical scanners and computer software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive materials such as flexible ruler and graph paper that can be easily replaced or reset. This eliminates the need for complex electromechanical scanners and expensive computer software systems, achieving non-invasive assessment with minimalistic, low-cost equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electromechanical scanning systems with a manual mechanical approach using flexible ruler, graph paper, and simple geometric constructions. This substitution dramatically reduces device complexity while maintaining the non-invasive assessment capability
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 a comprehensive and accurate assessment of spinal column dysfunctions in a standing position, facilitating better diagnosis and targeted intervention in spinal pathologies across various populations.
Implementation Method 1
using a ratchet and pinion mechanism to assess spinal curvatures and deviations
Implementation Method 2
using a ratchet and pinion mechanism to assess spinal curvatures and deviations
Data Source
AI summary
A device for assessing the spinal column intends to assess the lateral curvatures and deviations in the spinal column, in a standing position. It can be a non-invasive instrument that allows reproducing the position of each vertebra in the spinal column, from the first cervical vertebra to the first sacral vertebra. The device can include or consist of two parts: a first part designated as body and a second part defined as support. The first part can include or can consist of a vertical piece (that fits in the support) and several horizontal pieces. Each horizontal piece will touch the spinal crest of each vertebra in the spinal column, from the first cervical vertebra to the first sacral vertebra. The support can include or can consist of two pieces: a vertical piece, wherein the instrument's body vertical piece is fitted and a base whereon the feet of the patient under assessment are placed.