External Spinal Brace With Posterior Distraction and Flexible Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external braces for spinal disorders either require invasive surgical procedures or restrictive and painful non-invasive methods, and none provide a posterior distraction force to correct spinal abnormalities effectively.
Innovation Solution
An external spinal brace system with multiple support mechanisms that apply a posterior distraction force, allowing for limited movement and adjustable forces to counteract spinal abnormalities without surgery, using lightweight materials and adjustable elastic members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid external braces are used to treat spinal disorders, then spinal support and correction are provided, but rib deformities occur and movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible elastic members (such as springs or elastomeric elements) instead of rigid structural components. These elastic members can deform to accommodate rib movement while maintaining spinal support, thereby preventing rib deformities. The flexible nature allows the brace to adapt to the subject's body contours and movement patterns without imposing restrictive constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes adjustable elastic members with variable mechanical properties (such as spring constant, amplitude, or stiffness) that can be modified to match different spinal conditions and patient requirements. This parameter adjustability enables optimization of support forces while minimizing harmful effects on ribs and movement freedom.
2Ease of operation
If flexible external braces are used to allow freedom of movement, then movement restriction is reduced, but no posterior distraction force is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The brace system is divided into multiple functional segments: flexible elastic members for movement freedom and dedicated posterior distraction mechanisms (such as springs or adjustable members positioned at the posterior aspect). This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, providing both movement freedom and the necessary posterior distraction force to correct spinal abnormalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements (such as adjustable elastic members or springs) that mediate between the flexible brace structure and the spinal column. These intermediaries transmit controlled forces to provide posterior distraction while allowing the overall brace to remain flexible and accommodate natural movement.
3Reliability
If invasive surgical procedures are used to treat spinal disorders, then effective correction is achieved, but long and arduous recuperation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces invasive surgical mechanical systems (such as metal rods, screws, and fusion procedures) with an external non-invasive mechanical brace system. The brace applies corrective forces through flexible elastic members and adjustable mechanisms, achieving spinal correction without penetrating the body or requiring internal implants, thereby eliminating the long recuperation period associated with surgery.
4Reliability
If current external braces are used, then spinal support is provided, but the braces are highly restrictive and painful
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible elastic members (such as springs or elastomeric elements) instead of rigid structural components. These elastic members can deform to accommodate rib movement while maintaining spinal support, thereby preventing rib deformities. The flexible nature allows the brace to adapt to the subject's body contours and movement patterns without imposing restrictive constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates dynamic, adjustable elements that can adapt their mechanical properties in response to the subject's needs. The elastic members can be adjusted to provide appropriate support forces while maintaining flexibility and comfort, allowing the brace to evolve with the subject's activity level and spinal condition.
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 system effectively corrects spinal abnormalities by applying posterior distraction forces, reducing the need for invasive surgery and providing flexibility, while mimicking normal human movement and adjusting to individual needs.
Implementation Method 1
adjustable elastic members
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a system and/or method may include an external spinal brace system. The system may include a plurality of support mechanisms including at least first and second support mechanisms. The first support mechanism may be coupled, during use, to the second support mechanism such that the first and second support mechanisms are inhibited from decoupling. In some embodiments, the system may include a coupling system. The coupling system may couple the plurality of support mechanisms to a subject such that the plurality of support mechanisms are positioned, during use, along at least a portion of the subject's spine. In some embodiments, the external brace system applies a posterior distraction force to the subject.