Portable Spinal Decompression Harness with Adjustable Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal decompression devices are bulky, difficult to operate, and require users to remain in a single position, limiting their use to specific body types and preventing individuals from using them during daily activities.
Innovation Solution
A portable decompression device featuring adjustable thoracic and lumbar belts with traction devices at anchor points, allowing users to apply traction forces while moving, accommodating various body shapes and sizes, and incorporating a ratchet-type actuator mechanism for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional spinal decompression devices are used, then therapeutic decompression can be provided, but the devices are bulky and require users to remain in a single position
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a wearable harness with anchor points, a portable weight stack, and connecting straps. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized for portability while maintaining the complete decompression function when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from ground-based fixed decompression tables to a vertical hanging configuration. By utilizing the vertical dimension and gravity, the device enables users to perform decompression exercises in multiple positions (standing, kneeling, sitting) rather than being confined to a horizontal table position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional decompression devices are used, then spinal traction can be applied, but they are limited to specific body types
Solution Approach 1:
The harness and anchor point system is designed to accommodate various body types through multiple attachment locations and adjustable strap lengths. The same basic device structure can be used by children, adults, and individuals of different body compositions by simply repositioning the anchor points and adjusting strap configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities where users can modify the position of anchor points, strap lengths, and weight positions during use. This dynamic adaptability allows the fixed device structure to accommodate varying body types and provide optimal traction for each user.
3Ease of operation
If traditional decompression devices are used, then pain relief can be achieved, but they are difficult to operate and require constant supervision
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed for self-administered decompression therapy. Users independently attach themselves to the harness, select appropriate weights, and perform the decompression exercises without requiring a therapist or constant supervision. The self-service nature increases accessibility while maintaining safety through inherent mechanical limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex electronic control systems and motorized mechanisms with a simple mechanical weight-based system. This substitution improves reliability by eliminating electronic failures while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive mechanical adjustment of weight stacks and strap configurations.
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 users to receive therapeutic spinal disc decompression while engaging in normal daily activities, providing pain relief and accommodating diverse body types, including children, athletes, and obese individuals, without the need for constant supervision.
Implementation Method 1
a top (thoracic) adjustable belt and bottom (lumbar) adjustable belt with a plurality of traction devices attached at set anchor points for applying traction forces to a body to facilitate spinal disc decompression
Data Source
AI summary
A portable spinal decompression device comprised of a top (thoracic) adjustable belt and bottom (lumbar) adjustable belt with a plurality of traction devices attached at set anchor points for applying traction forces to a body to facilitate spinal disc decompression and alleviate pain of users with spinal disorders. The portable device that fits various shapes and body sizes can be operated by a user without additional assistance and can be used while the individual is in numerous positions during his or her daily routine.