Multi-Dimensional Spinal Traction Device with Segmented Actuators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinal traction therapies lack precision and consistency in applying multi-dimensional forces to correct abnormal spinal curves, often resulting in inadequate treatment due to patient movement and variability in treatment regimens.

Innovation Solution

A multi-dimensional traction device that securely positions patients using adjustable support portions and a control system to apply precise combinations of longitudinal, lateral, and sagittal traction forces, allowing for standardized treatment regimens and progressive force application to reshape spinal structures and soft tissues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional spinal traction therapy is applied, then some traction force is provided to the spine, but the treatment lacks precision and consistency due to patient movement and variability in applying multi-dimensional forces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of applying traction forcesVSAvoidconsistency of treatment

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The traction device is segmented into multiple independent actuators, each capable of applying forces in different directions (longitudinal, lateral, sagittal) to specific regions of the patient's body. This segmentation allows precise control of multi-dimensional forces independently, resolving the contradiction by enabling both precision in force application and consistency through independent actuator control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device employs dynamic control through a control system that coordinates multiple actuators to apply varying forces in multiple directions simultaneously. This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain precise and consistent traction forces despite patient movement, as the actuators can adjust their output in real-time to compensate for positional changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable support portions are used to position patients, then the device can accommodate varying patient heights and target specific contact areas, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to accommodate varying patient heights and target specific areasVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustable support portions

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support portions are designed with multi-functionality, serving as both positioning elements and force application points. Each support portion can be adjusted in position and orientation while also functioning as an actuator mounting point, reducing overall device complexity by combining multiple functions into single components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable support portions utilize a nested structure where smaller adjustment mechanisms are integrated within the larger support framework. This nesting allows for multiple degrees of freedom (longitudinal adjustment, rotation) without proportionally increasing external device complexity, as the adjustment mechanisms are contained within the existing structural envelope.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Measurement precision

If multiple actuators are used to apply longitudinal and lateral forces independently, then precise multi-dimensional traction can be applied, but the device complexity and control requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of multi-dimensional force applicationVSAvoidcomplexity of multiple actuators and control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system merges the control of multiple actuators into a unified coordination framework that manages longitudinal, lateral, and sagittal forces simultaneously. This merging approach reduces control complexity by treating the multi-actuator system as an integrated unit rather than separate control loops, while maintaining precise independent force application through coordinated actuation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If the device applies progressive traction forces over time, then treatment effectiveness increases for reshaping soft tissues, but the treatment duration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveeffectiveness of treatmentVSAvoidduration of treatment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The device applies traction forces in progressive periodic stages rather than continuous constant force. The control system implements periodic adjustment of force magnitudes and directions, allowing tissue adaptation and redistribution of stress over time. This periodic action increases treatment effectiveness for reshaping soft tissues while managing overall treatment duration through structured progressive loading cycles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11273089B2Apparatus for applying multi-dimensional traction to the spinal column

Publication Date: 2022.03.15 NICHOLS THERAPY SYST

AI summary

A physical medicine table for treating a patient's spine that is capable of providing precise, repeatable, and effective traction force treatment to a patient in multiple dimensions to adjust an unhealthy spinal structure towards a normal, healthy structure. Generally, the spinal structure treatment can be applied to a patient using the described traction device to secure the patient to the adjustable support portions and selectively impart a combination of longitudinal Y-axis traction forces, lateral X-axis traction forces and/or sagittal Z-axis traction forces to the patient using a control system in accordance with a prescribed treatment regimen.